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 - January 24, 2007
1 Thessalonians #7
Mileposts of Maturity: How can we know where we are; spiritually? Examples in the Bible: 1) Milepost of spiritual virtues (Faith; Hope; Love); 1Th 1:3; 2) Pilgrim analogy (faith to faith; strength to strength; glory to glory; Rom 1:17; Psa 84:7; 2Co 3:18); 3) Harvest analogy (from agriculture; Mat:13:3-8; Joh 15:1-8); 4) Stage of life analogy (babe; young man; adult; 1Jo 2:13-14); 5) Journey of Faith (five Hebrew words for faith; Gen 15:6; Psa 55:22; Psa 57:1; Isa 40:31); Mileposts of spiritual maturity in 1 Thessalonians: 1) they had received the Word with joy of the Holy Spirit (1Th 1:6) 2) they became followers of the Lord 3) they became examples to others (1Th 1:7) 4) they became ambassadors; 'from you the Word of the Lord has sounded forth' (1Th 1:8); Phi 2:25. The Thessalonians were making progress and the world could see it!
Scripture References: Psalms 55:22, 1 John 2:13-14, Genesis 15:6, 2 Corinthians 3:18, John 15:1-8, 1 Thessalonians 1:3, Matthew 3:18, Philippians 2:25, 1 Thessalonians 1:8, Psalms 84:7, Isaiah 40:31, 1 Thessalonians 1:7, Romans 1:17, Psalms 57:1, 1 Thessalonians 1:6
From Series: "1st Thessalonians - 2006"
The Thessalonians were persecuted for their faith. Paul's first letter to them provides comfort, reminding them of the details of Christ's return for His Church ("The Blessed Hope") and providing practical spiritual lessons for living.