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 #35
Ezekiel themes: (1) Glory of God (Chapter 1 & 3); (2) Glory departing (Chapter 11); (3) Ezekiel is made a watchman (Chapter 3 & 33); (4) The signs; (he acts out many prophecies). (5) Ezekiel is a preview of the Lord Himself (via resurrection and suffering prophecies regarding Israel). Gog invasion is summarized (Eze 38:14-17): (1) Time-frame "latter years" — Israel is back in the land(Eze 38:4-10). (2) The condition is that Israel dwells in illusion of safety without walls (Eze 38:18, Eze 38:10-13). (3) The identity of the players (Eze 38:2-6): Magog — Southern Russia, Persia — Iran & Iraq, Ethiopia — Sudan & Saharan Africa, Libya, Gomer — Turkey. God's view of the armies which come up against Jerusalem and the returning Jesus Christ (Psa 2:1-12). The unseen hand, namely God, wants mankind to acknowledge Him — to bring glory to Him (Eze 38:16-17). The Lord's purpose is His Glory (Eze 38:21, Eze 39:22-29). Rev 20 and Ezekiel 38-39 is separated by 1000 years; Revelation Chapter 20 represents the post-millennium rebellion, at the end of which is the White Throne Judgment.
Scripture References: Ezekiel 38:14-17, Ezekiel 38:16-17, Psalms 2:1-12, Ezekiel 38:2-6, Ezekiel 38:10-13, Ezekiel 38:18, Ezekiel 39:22-29, Ezekiel 38:4-10, Ezekiel 38:21
From Series: "Ezekiel - 2002"
Ezekiel's vision of God's glory effected his life.