First and Second Peter are grouped in what are called the General Epistles, written to the Church at large. The theme of First Peter is the refining and growth potential in our sufferings, 1Pe 1:3, 1Pe 1:6; 1Pe 2:2. This epistle was written to believers scattered by persecution throughout Asia Minor (1 Pe 1:1). The date was circa 64-65 A.D.—the beginning of Nero’s persecutions. First Peter is the best known and loved of these epistles, called by E.J. Goodspeed, “One of the most moving pieces of persecution literature.” This epistle is written to suffering believers, and is styled by Isaac Walton as, “affectionate, loving, lowly, and humble.” This epistle conveys an intense expectation of the Lord’s return as seen in 1Pe 1:5, 1Pe 1:7, 1Pe 1:13, 1Pe 2:12, 1Pe 4:13, 1Pe 4:17, 1Pe 5:1, 1Pe 5:4.
Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000
Living Sacrifice 16
Rom 1:1-2 presents doctrines for application to include the need for a sense of urgency and the fact we are brethren -- valuing each other (Heb 11:34, Psa 16:3). Paul adjusted to his environment -- common courtesy -- so that he could win people to Christ (1Co 9:22). In Adam we are in darkness, but when we believed in Christ, we entered into the environment of Grace (Col 1:13, 1Co 12:13). "By the mercies of God" (Rom 12:1). Romans Outline: Condemnation (Romans 1-3), Justification (Romans 4-5), Sanctification (Romans 6-8), Dispensation (Romans 9-11), Application (Romans 12-14). God's mercies motivate His provisions to us (Mat 9:36, Psa 103:1-2, Eph 1:1-3). Our compass is the cross. Left: Jesus Christ performed Redemption which paid for all our sins; Top: Propitiation - God is completely satisfied; Right: Reconciliation means there's now a change - the hostility is removed (Rom 5:1). Bottom: Justification: we are declared righteous.
Scripture References: Matthew 9:36, Romans 12:1, Colossians 1:13, Psalms 16:3, Romans 5:1, Hebrews 11:34, Ephesians 1:1-3, Romans 1:1-2, Psalms 103:1-2
From Series: "Living Sacrifice (1995)"
Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.