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 21, 2000
The Amazing Race 3
Heb 12:1-3 We're in the arena God has predetermined for us. We have our own personal race. We start the race when we become Christians. The race will be finished. We race against ourselves (Spirit vs flesh). The end is evaluated by Jesus Christ. In Jer 12:1-5 Jeremiah warned Israel for 40 years. When he questioned God, Jeremiah found out that to that point, he was only running with the footmen; a day was coming he'd have to run with the horseman. Job also questioned God. God asked Job "where were you when I laid the foundations of the Earth"? God asked Paul a similar question (Act 9:4); Paul responded "what would you have me to do"? (Act 9:6)
Scripture References: Jeremiah 12:1-5, Hebrews 12:1-3, Acts 9:6, Acts 9:4
From Series: "The Amazing Race"
Heb 12:1-3 says we're in the arena God has predetermined for us. We have our own personal race. We start the race when we become Christians. The race will be finished. We race against ourselves (Spirit vs flesh). The end is evaluated by Jesus Christ.