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 #16
Moses grew into the role of deliverer (Exo 18:1-12). Lessons God is teaching about leadership. Leadership is a skill we all need, because we'll have to lead someone sometime. Leading someone to Christ takes leadership skill; e.g. lead by example. Good followers can make good leaders. Leadership begins with following the plan of God (Exo 18:1). Leadership requires being an example (Heb 3:23-29, 1Th 1:6-7). Leadership begins at home (Exo 18:2-6, Moses had failed complying with the Abraham covenant - Exo 4:24). Moses failed in his marraige and appears to not reconcile with Zapora. Moses was to speak to th rock, not strike it, so failed (1Co 10:4). We need to practice leadership where we are. True leadership gives credit where it is due (Exo 18:7-12). Moses credits deliverance of God. Jethro comments of God's power over the arrogant gods or demons of the Nile (Exo 18:11, 1Co 10:20). Leadership is a team effort (Exo 18:12); it's a matter of fellowship, unity, and serving together. Good leaders can listen and learn from subordinates. Leadership recognizes someone else's criticism and suggestions (Exo 18:13-27). Leadership focuses effort on finding the best person for the task. Jethro had four suggestions: (1) stand before God, (2) teach them; (3) be an example; (4) find men to do the job who know the truth and hate covetousness, materialism. Part of leadership is to work himself out of a job, training someone else to do it.
Scripture References: Exodus 18:2-6, Hebrews 3:23-29, Exodus 18:13-27, Exodus 18:1, Exodus 18:12, Exodus 18:1-12, Exodus 18:11, Exodus 18:7-12, Exodus 4:24
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.