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, 2000
Living Sacrifice 05
2Ti 4:3 current apostacy is similar to Paul's discussion in Romans chapters 9 - 11. Passover in Exo 12:11 changes into the Lord's supper which will change to the marraige supper of the Lamb (Rev 14 & 19). "Loins girded" prepared for action -- ready for service (Heb 12:1, 1Pe 1:13, Eph 6:14). "Sandals on your feet" - restored to service (Luk 15:22, Rom 11:29, Eph 6:15, Psa 23:4). Reasons for urgency: (1) Time is short (Rev 22:7, Rev 22:12); Life is a vapor (Jam 4:14); We live in a unique generation (1Co 7:29); We have a garantee of the Lord's return (Luk 21:32). (2) Spiritual failure is a real possibility (1Co 9:27, Heb 10:36, Rev 3:11, 1Pe 1:2, Mat 24:13). (3) Loss of reward (1Co 3:15, 1Co 5:5, 2Co 2:6-8, Rev 3:11 "hold fast"). (4) Losing reward we'll be ashamed (Luk 9:26, 2Ti 2:15, 1Jo 2:28, Pro 3:5-6). (5) Redeemed time is all we can take with you -- time we live in fellowship and witness (Psa 90:12, Psa 39:4, Eph 5:16-17, Col 4:5).
Scripture References: Luke 9:26, Ephesians 6:14, Colossians 4:5, Revelation 22:12, Revelation 3:11, Hebrews 12:1, Ephesians 5:16-17, Revelation 22:7, Matthew 24:13, Revelation 14:19, Psalms 39:4, Psalms 23:4, Revelation 3:11, Exodus 12:11, Psalms 90:12, Ephesians 6:15, Hebrews 10:36, Proverbs 3:5-6, Romans 11:29, Luke 21:32, John 2:28, Luke 15:22, James 4:14
From Series: "Living Sacrifice (1995)"
Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.