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 - October 26, 2003
Psalm 16 - Elements of Pilgrim Life
We are sojourners and pilgrims (1Pe 2:9-11) - aliens in this life. Psalm 16 has the following elements: a prayer for watch-care, the expression of total dependence, a declaration of devotion, thankful contentment, a firm assurance, and a blessed hope. Seven conditions of a pilgrim: (1) There's a sense of constant threat as opposed to refuge - casah (Psa 16:1, 2Co 4:4). We live in a battlefield (Eph 6:12). (2) There's necessity for spiritual adjustment (Psa 16:2-3). Apart from Jesus Christ, we are the same old sinners (Rom 7:18). Love exalts others above self (Psa 16:3, Jam 1:17, Phi 2:3). Only spiritual growth and fellowship can keep us grace oriented. (3) Pilgrim life is progressive sanctification (Psa 16:4-5, 2Pe 1:2). Idol worshipers are a contrast (Jer 2:11, Rom 1:23). We are sanctified progressively through spiritual growth and practical application (Joh 17:17, Rom 12:1-2, 1Th 4:3). (4) A thankful contentment is difficult; it's easy to complain (Psa 16:5-6, Psa 23:5). We cannot lose what God has provided in Grace (Rom 11:29). (5) Stability in times of trial (Psa 16:7-8). David makes a commitment praise the Lord no matter what his lot may be (Psa 16:7). (6) We can pass through this world with hope - Hebrew batach (Psa 16:9, Phi 4:4, Job 19:25-26). (7) Anticipation or expectation of entering heaven (Psa 16:10-11). " Holy One" is applied to the Messiah Jesus Christ (Act 2:24-32). "In Your presence is fullness of joy...(Psa 37:4).
Scripture References: Psalms 16:2-3, Psalms 37:4, Jeremiah 2:11, Romans 11:29, Ephesians 6:12, Acts 2:24-32, Psalms 16:4-5, Psalms 23:5, Psalms 16:1, Job 19:25-26, Philippians 2:3, Psalms 16:5-6, Psalms 2:9, Philippians 4:4, James 1:17, Romans 12:1-2, Psalms 16:9, Psalms 16:3, John 17:17, Psalms 16:7, Romans 7:18, Romans 1:23, Psalms 16:7-8
From Series: "Psalms - 2001"
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