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 25, 2003
Ezekiel #4
Jesus is the flashing forth of the Glory of God (Heb 1:3, Joh 1:14). Of His fullness have we received and grace upon grace (Joh 1:16). Righteousness begins with confession; our life is to glorify Him (2Co 3:18, 2Co 4:17). Charge to Ezekiel -- because he saw the glory of God. (Eze 12:1-2). Moses warns Israel; so did Jesus (Deut 29, Mat 13). Eyes of the Lord looking for loyal hearts; judgment begins at His temple, his people (2Ch 3:9, 1Pe 4:17). Glory – unchanging value of things in God’s eyes. Jesus Christ has double glory: the nature of God is revealed in Him; the true nature of man as God intended it (Joh 7:39, Joh 13:31 Joh 17:5). Holiness love, compassion, mercy were revealed at the cross. Prophesies – Live under Rome (Dan 2:40, Dan 7:7 Dan 9:24-29); He was a Nazarene (Isa 9:1-2); Born in Bethlehem (Mic 5:1-2); was of the House of David (2Sa 7:12-16); time of birth (Dan 9:24-26 Gal 4:4); Wrapped in swaddling clothes in a manger (Isa 9:6-7); Commonplace person (Isa 53:1-3); would reconcile mankind (Isa 57:19). Herod was evil and his purpose could be no higher than human thing. God works behind the scenes (Luk 2:1-3). The road to glory is the ridicule of men. Joseph and Mary were ridiculed due to her pregnancy even in their home town Bethlehem (Luk 2:4). Go’ds glory is focused on Jesus Christ; He was first born (Luk 2:6-7, Rom 8:29, Col 1:15, Col 1:18, Heb 1:6, Heb 12:23). Jesus flesh was the veil of His glory (Heb 10:20). God picks the lowly (1Co 1:26-28). The glory of God is revealed to the pure of heart (Luk 2:8-14). The announcement of glory was to faithful shepherds (Joh 14:21). We are invited to enter God’s glory (Luk 2:15-20).
Scripture References: Daniel 2:40, Luke 2:8-14, Galatians 4:4, Hebrews 1:3, Luke 2:6-7, John 17:5, Hebrews 10:20, Daniel 9:24-26, Luke 2:4, John 13:31, Hebrews 12:23, Micah 5:1-2, Luke 2:1-3, John 7:39, Hebrews 1:6, Isaiah 9:1-2, Isaiah 57:19, Ezekiel 12:1-2, Colossians 1:18, Daniel 9:24-29, Luke 2:15-20, Isaiah 53:1-3, John 1:16, Colossians 1:15, Daniel 7:7, John 14:21, Isaiah 9:6-7, John 1:14, Romans 8:29
From Series: "Ezekiel - 2002"
Ezekiel's vision of God's glory effected his life.