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 - February 24, 2010
Beauty for Ashes #2
God works through us via the Son, Spirit, and Word through faith. Three passages declare God as blessed, who brought us forth to a living hope, having given us all spiritual blessing (2Co 1:3, 1Pe 1:3, Eph 1:3). Disciples prayed the prayer Jesus commanded (Mat 9:35-38), then fulfilled it (Mat 10:5). The "Need for Comfort" notes are (Rom 5:12). We want comfort, but we turn our back on it (Jer 2:13). If we lack comfort, we lack in "seeking" (Heb 11:6).
Conference notes for this series can be found [HERE]
Scripture References: Matthew 9:35-38, Ephesians 1:3, Hebrews 11:6, Jeremiah 2:13, Romans 5:12, Matthew 10:5
From Series: "Beauty For Ashes - Florida 2010"
Have you ever stood in great need of comfort and encouragement? If so you know that in time of affliction there is no thought or word that has deeper meaning nor any possession of greater value than that of effective and genuine comfort. The objective of this study is to equip us to have the assurance that there is comfort available and to know how to be comforted as well as how to be a comfort to others in the fires of affliction.