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 9, 2010
Time To Endure 5
Jesus was tempted in all ways we are (Heb 4:15-16). Mercy withholds that which we deserve; Grace supplies us that which we don't deserve. Jesus is the Master because He mastered the course. We have need of endurance; we can turn back and lose focus (Heb 10:35-39). There's only one sacrifice (Heb 10:10, Heb 10:12, Heb 10:14). We are delivered from ruin (Psa 103:4). We are saved from non-production (Heb 10:38, Mat 24:13).
We learn at least 7 things from the cross:
- We need to learn to forgive (Luk 23:34).
- We need to lead others to Christ (Luk 23:43).
- We need to learn to love (Joh 19:26-27).
- We need to learn to communicate (Mat 27:46).
- We need to entrust ourselves to Him (Luke 23:46).
- We need to embrace our need (Joh 19:28).
- We need to finish (Joh 19:30).
Three progressions of discipline: rebuke, chastening, and scourging ( Heb 12:3-6). Discipline from the Lord is proof we are His children (Heb 12:7-9). God's goal is to make us like Him (Heb 12:10-12).
Scripture References: Psalms 103:4, Matthew 27:46, Hebrews 12:10-12, Hebrews 10:14, John 19:26-27, Hebrews 12:7-9, Hebrews 10:12, Luke 23:43, Hebrews 12:3-6, Hebrews 10:10, Luke 23:34, John 19:30, Hebrews 10:35-39, Matthew 24:13, John 19:28, Hebrews 4:15-16, Hebrews 10:38, Luke 23:46
From Series: "Time to Endure - Uniontown PA 2010"
Everyone has need of endurance (Jam 5:11). This series was taught at Abundant Life Church in Uniontown PA in October 2010. Gene presented the following: (1) The 'call' to endure; (2) Endurance Defined; (3) The Source and Supply; (4) The School of Endurance; (5) The Blessed Fruit of Endurance; (6) The Reward of Endurance; (7) Timeless Testimony of Endurance.