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 7, 2010
Courage for Conflict
1st Timothy is about fighting the good fight. 2nd Timothy is about the being a good soldier. We are an active participant in the Will of God (2Ti 1:1). When Paul and Timothy split up, Timothy was crying (2Ti 1:4-5). Do you have a passion burining in you? Paul wanted to "stir up the gift" in Timothy (2Tim 1:5-6). What Job feared happened (Job 3:20). Fear is false evindence that apears real. Job thought he did not have a mediator (Job 9:32-33, 1Ti 2:5). When Job gets the right attitude (Job 13:15, Job 19:25). "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, of love, and sound mind" (2Ti 1:7)
Scripture References: Job 19:25, Job 13:15, Job 9:32-33, Job 3:20
From Series: "Arkansas Youth Camp 2010 - Courage in Conflict"
Given at Arkansas Youth Camp 2010