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 30
"be not conformed to this world , but be transformed" (Rom 12:2) The law, and religion are the negative commands (Rom 8:3). Disciple means "a disciplined student off the Word (Mat 4:4, 2Ti 3:16). "blessed" is the state of the believer. "Blessed are the merciful" (Mat 5:7, Mat 9:13) -- compassionate. This is a state of blessing in spite of circumstanced. Compassion blesses the compassionate one (Jam 2:13). Compassion is a characteristic of Jesus (Mat 9:36, Mat 14:14, Mat 15:32, Mat 20:34, Mar 1:41). "Pure in heart" means cleansed within (Mat 5:8, 2Ti 2:21, Joh 15:3, 1Jn 1:9). "Blessed are the peacemakers" (Mat 5:9). We are ministers of reconciliation (2Co 5:19-20). We are witnesses. "Blessed are the persecuted" (Mat 5:10, 1Ti 3:16, 2 Ti 3:12). We are "Salt and Light" (Mat 5:13). Disciple characteristics make us blessed: possessor of kingdom, receiver of Divine comfort, reign with Christ, desires are fulfilled, receives mercy and called God's son. "But be transformed" (Rom 12:2) is passive -- we can only receive it. Negative command followed by the positive: examples: deny yourself (Mat 16:24); overcome evil with Good (Rom 12:21); lay aside... and put on (Eph 4:22-24). Religion has only has the negative and does not pursue the positive lacking the power, the Spirit (2Ti 3:5). We are to be transformed (Tit 2:10-13). "denying ungodliness" (a Christ-less life)... Attitude of most believers today (2Pe 3:3). Simeon is an example of Tit 2:13 -- "looking for the blessed hope, and glorious appearing of the great God and our savior Jesus Christ".
Scripture References: Matthew 14:14, John 1:9, Romans 12:2, Romans 12:21, Matthew 9:36, John 15:3, Matthew 16:24, James 2:13, Matthew 5:8, Romans 12:2, Matthew 9:13, Mark 1:41, Matthew 5:13, Matthew 5:7, Titus 2:13, Matthew 20:34, Matthew 5:10, Matthew 4:4, Titus 2:10-13, Matthew 15:32, Matthew 5:9, Romans 8:3, Ephesians 4:22-24
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.