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 18
Things not a part of God's plan are a distraction - an encumbrance (Heb 12:1-2) -- we must pick up our cross making it possible to set distraction's aside (Luk 15:9). A right relationship with God makes it possible to be in a right relationship with others. The only righteousness that counts with God is that which is received by him by Grace through faith; not part of the law (Rom 3:21-25, Rom 5:1). Redemption (Rom 3:24) makes us free. The Law of Liberty applies to us (Gal 5:1), but isn't license (Jud 1:4). The Law of Love I restrict my liberty in the presence of others (1Co 8:1). Law of Expediency takes the unbeliever into account as a witness (1Co 10:23). Law of Sacrifice relates to God -- for the Church Age (1Co 9:1-27, 1Co 11:14). There is no excuse for the unbeliever -- proof is there (Rom 3:25-26). We were enemies, but now reconciled (Rom 5:1, Rom 5:10-11) -- a relationship of peace. Unbelievers are under the wrath of God but we have received mercy and grace (Eph 2:1-5). He made us alive with Christ. His purpose is to publicly display His provisions in our lives (Eph 2:6-10). Accordingly, we are to walk: (1) by faith (2Co 5:12); (2) in the Spirit (Gal 5:16, Gal 5:25); (3) in Good works (Eph 2:9-10); (4) worthy of our calling (Eph 4:1; Rom 12:3-4); (5) in the sphere of love (Eph 5:2); (6) in the light (Joh 8:12, Eph 5:8, 1Jo 1:7) (7) in wisdom (Eph 5:15) so that Eph 5:8-17 applies.
Scripture References: Romans 5:10-11, Ephesians 4:1, Romans 3:21-25, Ephesians 5:15, Romans 5:1, Ephesians 2:9-10, Luke 15:9, John 1:7, Romans 3:25-26, Galatians 5:25, Hebrews 12:1-2, Ephesians 5:8, Jude 1:4, Galatians 5:16, John 8:12, Galatians 5:1, Ephesians 2:6-10, Ephesians 5:2, Romans 3:24, Ephesians 2:1-5, Romans 12:3-4, Romans 5:1, Ephesians 5:8-17
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.