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 - May 23, 2003
Profiles in Providence #8
Philippians are Paul's "joy and crown" (Phi 4:1). Five crowns possible as part of our rewards: (1) Imperishable crown (1Co 9:25); (2) Crown of life - abundant life in eternity (Jam 1:12, Rev 2:10); (3) Crown of Joy - witnessing crown (1Th 2:19, 1Pe 3:15); (4) Crown of Righteousness (2Ti 4:8) - finishing the race by what He does in us ; Crown of Glory (1Pe 5:4) - ministry crown. "Content" means sufficiency borrowed from Greek stoics (Phi 4:11-13). 3 steps to contentment: (1) "I have learned" - discipleship (Phi 4:11); (2) "I know how" (Phi 4:12) - skill of wisdom - living life God's way; (3) "I can do all things" (Phi 4:13) - "can do" (the power of God) "strengthening" our lives (giving us ability). (Ecc 10:10). A sharp axe is wisdom.
Conference notes for this series can be found [HERE]
Scripture References: James 1:12, Ecclesiastes 10:10, Philippians 4:1, Philippians 4:13, Philippians 4:12, Philippians 4:11, Philippians 4:11-13, Revelation 2:10
From Series: "Philippians - Profiles in Providence - Florida 2008"
Philippians 1:12 starts out "Now I want you to know brethren that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the Gospel". It's a key verse in the letter Paul wrote to those faithful believers while he was in chains.