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 13, 2000
Cross to the Crown #10
Phi 4:4 - rejoice means "celebrate the victory". Christ won the battle. The moment you had "peace with God" (Rom 5:8) you entered a battle with the enemy Satan. The eight guardians of the soul. The Trojan horse of the soul is anxiety (fear - Heb 2:14-15). There is no justifiable reason to have anxiety as a Christian. Three-fold approach in Phi 4:6-9: (A) build a wall (1Pe 1:4) confidence and effective pray; rest in His security (Phi 4:6-7); (B) man the watchtower with guardians (Phi 4:8) of thought: 1)Truth - the declared revelation of God.; 2) Noble - dignified, inspiring and reverent - opposite of cowardice; 3) Just - right and fair - truth in action; 4) Pure - innocence of motive - opposite of duplicity (deception) and opposite of singleness of heart; 5) Lovely - beauty, graciousness - no humor; 6) Honor - giving God His due; 7) Virtue - good character or grace and mercy in action; 8) Praiseworthy - good reputation - glory and heroic action (2Co 8:18). Anxious people don't make heroes. (C) keep the enemy outside (Phi 4:9) - DO IT!
Scripture References: Philippians 4:9, Philippians 4:8, Philippians 4:6-7, Philippians 4:6-9, Hebrews 2:14-15, Romans 5:8, Philippians 4:4
From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"
To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.