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 - September 11, 2000
Elijah #6
A cry for and assurance of revival (Psa 119:25-32). To Ahab the apostate, Elijah the prophet was the troublemaker (1Ki 18:17-18). Jesus tells His brothers that the world hates Him, but won't hate them (Joh 7:7, Luk 23:5). Amos was hated (Amo 7:10). Paul and Silas were troublemakers (Act 16:20, Act 17:6). If you can read these passages and not be troubled then you fit into the world too well (Mat 5:3-12, Luk 6:20-23). After the Babylonian captivity Ezra led the people back to the land during restoration (Ezr 9:4-11). Ahab was one of the kings who facilitated their destruction. Oswald Chambers led a revival among the light horseman of Australia. That calvary freed Palestine under General Allenby during WWII. Elijah took a confident stand of faith in the face of 450 false prophets (1Ki 18:19-24, Jos 1:9, 1Jo 4:4, 2Ki 6:16). The irony of Elijah's challenge to the false prophets is that Baal was "the God of fire" (1Ki 18:24-35). The "evening sacrifice" a lamb was to be offered. Elijah prepared his sacrifice in the pattern of the cross and asked the Jews to join in (1Ki 18:36-37, Heb 10:23-24). The revival started (1Ki 18:38-40).
Scripture References: Acts 17:6, Hebrews 10:23-24, Acts 16:20, John 4:4, Amos 7:10, Joshua 1:9, Luke 23:5, Ezra 9:4-11, John 7:7, Luke 6:20-23, Psalms 119:25-32, Matthew 5:3-12
From Series: "Elijah"
Elijah's life shows us the keys to spiritual power: the power of God's Word faith prayer revival and failure.