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 - June 10, 2003
Galatians 1
If we compromise the truth we diminish the power of the Gospel. Judiazers added keeping the law to the gospel (Acts 15:1-5). Key verse is Gal 2:16 - justification by grace through faith. Relevance in our time Gal 5:1. Outline: Chapters 1-2 Personal, Chapters 3-4 Doctrinal, Chapters 5-6 Practical. Immediate defense of his apostleship (Gal 1:1-5), also contains the gospel. Paul stresses his independent calling through the Father and Son. The message of the gospel is by Grace; Christ's act of substitution giving Himself; the result is justification - we are rescued out this present evil age. The resurrection is proof (Rom 4:24-25). Peace comes from stability which comes from the truth; Galatians had no peace (Gal 1:5-6) because some were twisting the gospel (2Co 11:4, 2Co 11:13-15) and put themselves under a curse (Gal 1:9, Gal 3:10, Deu 11:26-28, Exo 19:4). Paul got both his apostleship and message from God (Gal 1:10-12). Paul's life change gave him credibility (Gal 1:13-16). God equipped Paul like we have to be (Gal 1:17-24).
Scripture References: Deuteronomy 11:26-28, Galatians 2:16, Galatians 3:10, Acts 15:1-5, Galatians 1:9, Galatians 1:17-24, Galatians 1:5-6, Galatians 1:13-16, Romans 4:24-25, Galatians 1:10-12, Galatians 1:1-5, Exodus 19:4, Galatians 5:1
From Series: "Galatians - The Truth and Power of the Gospel - Hot Spring AR - 2009"
This series was given at Grace Bible Church of Hot Springs Arkansas in November 2009.