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 - June 9, 2000
Life of Moses #3
God's plan does not change with regard to Moses, but Moses changes to align with God's plan (Exo 3:7). God's plan is personal, historical (relates to a set time and event), geographic (the right place), operational (requires deeds, actions), motivational (God wants us to be motivated by love 2Co 5:14), inspirational (the Word of God is our inspirational power), and is unconventional (Isa 55, Psa 103). Our weakness (insufficiency) is the key to benefiting from God's strength, sufficiency (Exo 3:11, 2Co 12:9-10). Moses failures where do to trying to do the right thing at the wrong time and wrong way (Act 7:22-25, Exo 2:11-15). Moses' wounds from past failure come out in his conversation with God; he pleads inadequacy (Exo 3:11-12), and ignorance (Exo 3:13-14, Act 7:22). Moses expresses frustration and bitterness. God responds by telling of His vital role, and promise (Exo 3:14-22). Moses excuse of being rejected (Exo 4:1), makes God more abrupt; He gives Moses signs (Exo 4:2-9). Moses denies his skill (Act 7:22, 1Co 2:1-5, Exo 4:10), and refuses to go -- his bitterness (Exo 4:13). God's anger at Moses comes out (Exo 4:14). God forces Moses to speak through Aaron (divine sarcasm - as Aaron was not nearly as skilled - Exo 4:15-17). Moses does overcome, of course (Deu 33:1). This should be an encouragement to us.
Scripture References: Exodus 4:15-17, Exodus 3:11, Exodus 3:14-22, Exodus 4:14, Psalms 5:14, Acts 7:22, Exodus 4:13, Exodus 3:7, Exodus 3:13-14, Exodus 4:10, Exodus 3:11-12, Acts 7:22, Exodus 2:11-15, Exodus 4:2-9, Deuteronomy 33:1, Acts 7:22-25, Exodus 4:1
From Series: "Life of Moses"
After 40 years in the Egyptian palace then 40 years in the desert then 40 years leading Israel to their land Moses' life can actually teach us about living in the time we live.