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 20
Rom 12:1-2 contains 12 subjects: (1) Time is short (2) appreciation for the brethren, (3) exploit God's provisions, mercies of God, (4) pick up your cross, (5)divine approval, (6) fruitful Christian service, (7) separate and sanctified (8) spiritual warfare (9) progressively conform to the image of Christ (10) diligence being a student of the Word of God (11) will of God for us must be demonstrated (12) the abundant life. "Present youselves a living sacrifice" means avail yourself to service. The word "present yourselves" to means the body being prepared for "service" (Mat 26:53, Rom 6:12-19). Death reigns through sin, but the abundance of Grace provisions make us the master in our own life (Rom 5:12-17). Grace sets us free from slavery to demonstrate the Kingdom of God to men (Rom 6:14). Paul shows the concept of our body as a spiritual base of operations (2Co 6:6-7). Believer is a temple of the Holy Spirit; the weapon is our spiritual gift.
Scripture References: Romans 6:14, Romans 5:12-17, Romans 6:12-19, Matthew 26:53, Romans 12:1-2
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.