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 #7
Psa 82:1 refers to God stepping into the congregation of the gods (Satan and his demons). God's purpose in the plagues is redemptive (Exo 9:16, Exo 7:5). False God's must be exposed. People attribute blessings to their false gods. When we fail to attribute blessings to God, we are withholding credit and are worshipping something else. Evil generations harden their hearts with signs and miracles (Exo 7:1-25). Jews rejected Jesus' signs. The evidence of faithfulness is obedience. Growth is not complete until the truth learned is applied. Serpent represents wisdom of Satan verses the wisdom of God. Bronze serpent serpent represents Christ (Num 21:9). Pharaoh worshiped the Nile and washed in it every morning for his "dose of deity" (Gen 7:14-25, Rom 1:21). In order to redeem some there must be judgement on others. The same sun that melts the wax hardens the clay; it all depends upon the medium. The plagues make Pharaoh harden his own heart (Exo 8:1-32). Pharaoh is disingenuous proclaiming "tomorrow" regarding letting the Jews go (Exo 8:10, Exo 8:22, 2Pe 2:9). The Lord knows how to deliver us out of temptation. God is able to take us through anything. Shepards were an abomination to Egyptians as were lambs (Exo 8:26, Gen 43:32, Gen 46:34).
Scripture References: Exodus 7:1-25, Exodus 8:22, Exodus 7:5, Exodus 8:10, Exodus 9:16, Exodus 8:1-32, Psalms 82:1, Romans 1:21, Genesis 46:34, Genesis 7:14-25, Genesis 43:32, Numbers 21:9, Exodus 8:26
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.