Bible Study - Confident Living - Stay the Course - 1 Peter 4 - March 27, 2011

Bible Study – Confident Living – Stay the Course – March 27, 2011

This is our final lesson in the series entitled “Confident Living in Difficult Times.”
Our scripture is 1 Peter 4:1-2, 7-19.

In last week’s lesson we studied 1 Peter 3: 3-4:
3 Your beauty should not consist of outward things [like]* elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold ornaments[3] or fine clothes;[4] 4 instead, [it should consist of]* the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very valuable in God’s eyes. (GOD looks upon the heart.)


Peter was writing of the inner beauty of Christian women. Let’s consider the inner beauty of Christians both male and female. As Christians, we should let the inner beauty of CHRIST within be revealed. Often Christians fear becoming too Spiritual and rightly so, if they are led by the flesh. Christians shroud this inner, born-again, beauty with the flesh. So what do Christians need to do to let this inner beauty be revealed? Nothing - except yield their wills to CHRIST and allow HIM, through the HOLY SPIRIT, lead and direct their lives. Christians need for it to be a natural result of Spiritual development resulting from obedience to GOD and really getting to know HIM – studying the Bible, prayer and service, as HE leads. It is not to be an ostentatious, arrogant, self-righteous, look at “me” but as Peter stated, “It is the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet Spirit.” It is allowing the born-again, hidden person within to be directed by the HOLY SPIRIT and to surface naturally as he/she dies to self and the Spirit not being squelched by the dictates of the flesh.


When we were born physically, we began a journey to adulthood. Our parent, parents or guardians nurtured us. They fed us and took care of us until we were able to care for ourselves. As we grew and matured we ate, exercised, studied, worked and interacted with people. We grew into the young adults or adults we are today. We may have had a desire to become a certain type of adult and as a result, many achieve that goal. What is our goal as a Christian? GOD’S goal for all Christians is for them to be made into the image of HIS ONLY SON, JESUS. What Christians need to do is to take in the right nourishments to grow and mature – Bible study, prayer, obedient service and the list goes on. GOD has a plan for every Christian. Whether they follow HIS plan depends upon their will. Who do we choose to allow the control of our lives – the flesh or the Spirit? GOD’S desire is for us to allow the Spirit to control our lives.


This is accomplished through having the right relationship with CHRIST. Christians need to die to self and walk in the Spirit. Walking in the Spirit is living an obedient lifestyle as directed by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. GOD gives Spiritual gifts to every Christian to be used to minister to others, as HE directs. Christians need to keep in mind that Spiritual gifts are HIS power being manifested through them.


The Apostle Peter has made it clear that a Christian is an alien and temporary resident of earth. Their citizenship and home is in heaven. At the moment of salvation a person has been born into the family of GOD. He/she belongs to GOD and the process of sanctification begins immediately working within. Christians have the freedom of choice and decide on a moment by moment basis who they will serve, the flesh or the Spirit. When their lifestyle is obeying GOD the more the inner beauty that results from their relationship with CHRIST grows, matures, and has the opportunity to be revealed.


Let your inner beauty within, which has been created by your relationship with CHRIST, emerge and do not hide it under the cloak of the flesh. As you do, you will likely encounter adversity because Satan will certainly war against you. But remember 1 John 4:4:
4 You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One (CHRIST) who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world (Satan).


CHRIST defeated Satan upon the cross. When Christians live in the flesh, they are ruled by the flesh which is influenced by the things of this world. Walk in the Spirit because the Spirit is ruled by GOD through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.


Physically adult Christians often make it complicated and try to analyze everything. JESUS put it as plain and simple as possible by telling us in Mark 10:13-16:


13 Some people were bringing little children to Him so He might touch them, but His disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw it, He was indignant and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me. Don’t stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 • I assure you: Whoever does not welcome[6]the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16 After taking them in His arms, He laid His hands on them and blessed them.


Little children trust and obey. That is what GOD wants HIS children to do. Christians are to yield to HIM and trust HIM as HE leads. They are to stay the course until HE returns to earth or they meet HIM in heaven. Live in the light as HE is the light.


Let’s read 1 Peter 4:1-2, 7-11: (Live in the light until the end.)
Following Christ
1 Therefore, since Christ suffered[1] in the flesh,[2] arm yourselves also with the same resolve[3]—because the One who suffered in the flesh[4] has finished with sin[5] [6]— 2 in order to live the remaining time in the flesh,[7] no longer for human desires,[8] but for God’s will.

Peter was telling his fellow Christians to be prepared to suffer just as CHRIST suffered. Christians are to arm themselves by setting their minds or resolve on the fact that they will face suffering. The Greek word for “resolve” can be translated “attitude” about enduring suffering, “knowledge” or understanding that suffering is inevitable or “intention” which is a person’s determination to live as GOD leads him/her, regardless of how it impacts his/her physical life.


Peter follows this with “because the One.” Some translations do not capitalize “one”, therefore “one” could refer to the Christian as “the one” or if capitalized “One” would refer to CHRIST. The point being either could be correct. CHRIST suffered in the flesh to defeat sin once and for all. HE was committed to finish HIS purpose upon earth, which was to conquer and defeat sin. It could refer to the Christian who has resolved to serve GOD as HE leads and directs his/her life regardless of what happens to him/her in this life upon earth.


When Christians are in right relationship with CHRIST and led by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, they walk in the Spirit and no longer desire the things the flesh craves. They have died to self and live to serve GOD. Peter continued in the next scripture to state four (4) ways Christians can be prepared to live in the light until the end.


1 Peter 4: 7-11 - End-Time Ethics
7 Now the end of all things is near;[15] therefore, be clear-headed and disciplined for prayer. 8 Above all, keep your love for one another at full strength, since love covers a multitude of sins.[16] [17] 9 Be hospitable to one another without complaining. 10 Based on the gift they have received, everyone should use it to serve others,[18] as good managers of the varied grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, [his speech should be]* like the oracles of God; if anyone serves, [his service should be]* from the strength God provides,[19] so that in everything God may be glorified[20] through Jesus Christ. To Him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. • Amen.


Based upon what Peter had heard JESUS say about the end times, he thought the second coming of CHRIST was imminent. Just as Christians today can look at what is happening in our world and think, “The coming of CHRIST has to be soon.” The point being no one except the FATHER knows when HE will allow CHRIST to return. The point being whether HE returns at any second or we meet HIM in death, each day that passes we are closer to being with HIM.


Peter gave four ways that Christians can stay focused while they wait upon the moment they meet JESUS because the end of life’s journey will soon be over, be it a day or a hundred years:


- Be clear headed and disciplined for prayer. Christians are to be clear headed and not live in a fantasy land. Being an obedient Christian, living in the Spirit is not easy. Having a strong prayer life is vital to keep the Christian focused upon his/her relationship with GOD through CHRIST moment by moment. Communicating with GOD moment by moment is vital.


- Maintain your love for each other. It is vital that Christians maintain their love for one another. If Christians cannot love their brothers and sisters in CHRIST, how can they love the lost? It is vital that nothing come between them and fellow Christians because Satan can use the lack of unity to create problems. Plus all Christians and especially active Christians need prayer support, encouragement and assistance of fellow Christians. If there is dissension, that resource is removed or crippled.


- Be hospitable. Reach out to others. In Peter’s day there were no motels and restaurants on every corner. People, Christian or non-Christian alike depended upon the hospitality of others. Use that gift to minister to fellow Christians or non-Christians. Use hospitality to witness to the lost and to minister fellow Christians.


- Use your Spiritual gift or gifts to serve others. GOD has granted Spiritual gifts to all of HIS children. Christians are not to hide their gift or gifts but use them for the glory of GOD to minister to others. I can hear some of you say, “But I do not have a gift.” Oh, yes you do. Ask GOD to reveal it or them to you. When HE does, then use it or them as HE directs you. Keep in mind that a gift is GOD’S power being manifested through you. It is a gift that HE gives and to be used as HE directs. First Corinthians 12:11 - 11 But one and the same Spirit is active in all these (Spiritual Gifts), distributing to each one as He wills.

Let’s read 1 Peter 4:12-16: Christian Suffering
12 Dear friends, when the fiery ordeal[21] arises among you to test you, don’t be surprised by it, as if something unusual were happening to you.[22] 13 Instead, as you share in the sufferings of the • Messiah rejoice,[23] so that you may also rejoice with great joy at the revelation of His glory. 14 If you are ridiculed for the name of Christ,[24] you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on[25]you.[26] 15 None of you, however, should suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a meddler.[27] 16 But if [anyone suffers]* as a Christian, he should not be ashamed, but should glorify God with that name.


Peter was writing to his fellow Christians who he addressed as “Dear friends.” Peter doesn’t mince words when he wrote, “When the fiery ordeal arises.” It was not a matter of “if” but “when.” When it happened don’t be surprised as if it was something unexpected that happened to you. Instead, when it happens rejoice because it confirms that you are GOD’S child just as JESUS is GOD’S SON. When you suffer, you can relate to the suffering of CHRIST. You can appreciate the suffering of CHRIST for you to have the opportunity for salvation.


If you suffer for being a Christian, why would you rejoice at the revelation of CHRIST’S Glory? It is because you have remained faithful and endured to the end. You have run the race and crossed the finish line. The title of our lesson is “Stay the Course.” When Christians stay the course and see JESUS, they rejoice because the goal of faithful, obedient service has been reached. When you see HIM, you will be like HIM.


First John 3:1-2 - 1 Look at how great a love[1] the Father has given us, that we should be called God’s children. And we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it didn’t know Him. 2 Dear friends, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him as He is.


If you have been ridiculed as a Christian, rejoice because you are obediently serving GOD. Being ridiculed for being a Christian reveals that you are effectively serving GOD.


Christians must keep in mind that they are to obediently serve GOD. However, suffering for things they have done wrong, such as a murder, thief, evildoer, meddler (a busy body) does not count as suffering for being a Christian. But suffering because you are a Christian glorifies GOD.


Let’s read 1 Peter 4:17-19:
17 For the time has come for judgment to begin with God’s household;[28] and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God?[29]18 And if the righteous is saved with difficulty, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?[30]19 So those who suffer according to God’s will should, in doing good, entrust themselves[31] to a faithful Creator.


Peter issued a stern statement regarding judgment. GOD tests Christians to confirm the genuineness of their salvation – not for HIM to see but for Christians to see how they measure up to HIS goal for them. Since Christians are saved with difficulty, through the passion of CHRIST, you know that there is no opportunity for non-believers to earn their way to heaven other than accepting CHRIST as their SAVIOR. Therefore, non-believers should not think if they suffer or even give their lives for good causes that GOD will accept them into heaven. No person can earn his/her way to heaven. If a person could earn his/her way to heaven, then JESUS did not have to come to earth and give HIS life to pay for the sin of mankind for those who would believe in HIM.


Some may think that, “I would become a Christian but I am afraid I could not hold out.” I assure you, you cannot hold out in your own strength. All Christians depend upon the strength and power of GOD, sustained, maintained and confirmed by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. Christians are sinners saved by grace. Christians still sin and when they do they confess their sin to GOD and repent (meaning stop doing it). GOD forgives, cleanses and restores. (First John 1:9.)


Just as a little child takes his/her first step and falls, we as parents do not jerk the child up and set him/her in a chair and tell the child not to try walking again until he/she can walk perfectly. No, we are so thrilled that they have taken that first step that is like a shot heard around the world. We call our parents and friends to tell them the good news. Neither does GOD tell us to stop being a Christian when we stumble and fall into sin. The important part is for the Christian to not remain in sin. That requires a decision by the Christian.

GOD knows the potential of every Christian. HIS desire is for us to allow HIM to develop that potential to bring glory and honor to HIM, according to HIS plan and purpose. Walk in the light as HE is the light and remain faithful to the end. Blessings to all as you serve HIM and stay the course.

Bible Study - Confident Living - Relationships under Stress - 1 Peter 2 - 1 Peter 3 - March 20, 2011

Bible Study – Confident Living – Relationships under Stress – March 20, 2011

This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Confident Living in Difficult Times.”
Our scripture is 1 Peter 2:11-12; 1 Peter 3:1-12.
The title of our lesson is “Relationships under Stress.” Think for a minute about the relationships in your life which may be under stress. Most often it is between members of our family, career associates, church, various social associates we have, interacting with public and the list goes on. So how do we, as Christians, deal with these stressful relationships? Hopefully, you will know after we study our scriptures. But one vital factor, as a Christian, is forgiving those who have done us wrong.


This lesson is about having and maintaining the right relationships during difficult times and when under stress. Peter addressed relationships of citizens with government, slaves with their masters and Christian versus non-Christian relationships – routine and marriage.

Let’s read 1 Peter 2:11-12: A Call to Good Works

11 Dear friends, I urge you as aliens and temporary residents[31] to abstain from fleshly desires[32] that war against you.[33] [34] 12 Conduct yourselves honorably among the Gentiles,[35] so that in a case where they speak against you as those who do evil, they may, by observing your good works, glorify God[36] in a day of visitation.[37] [38]


The Apostle Peter continued in his letter to fellow Christians who he addressed as “Dear friends.” He instructed them, as Christians, to abstain from fleshly desires common to people. He reminded them that, as Christians, they were aliens on earth since they had experienced the miracle of bring born-again into the family of GOD. Their citizenship was in heaven. Compared to eternity their time on earth was temporary. Therefore, they should live such that their lives would be a living message to the non-Christians they encountered each day. In verse 12, the reference to Gentiles means non-Christians.

The non-Christians in that day thought that Christians were atheists because they didn’t worship some pagan image. The non-Christians had a warped idea about Christians. They thought that Christians were cannibals since the elements of the LORD’S Supper, bread and wine, represented the body and shed blood of CHRIST. They thought Christians held sex orgies because they spoke of their love for one another. Christians were considered being uncommitted to their families because when a spouse became a Christian and the other one didn’t, the Christian spouse, mainly the female Christian, could be ordered to leave or renounce her faith in CHRIST.


Many non-Christians today have mixed notions about Christianity because of the way different Christian denominations worship. Non-Christians must keep in mind that joining a church and being baptized does not make you a Christian. Being physically born into a Christian family does not make you a Christian. It is NOT giving away your material possessions. It is CHRIST in you that makes you a Christian. How does CHRIST get in you? You ask HIM to forgive you of your sins, believe that HE gave HIS life upon the cross for you, was buried and that GOD raised HIM from the dead. Believing that CHRIST gave HIS life for your sins and asking HIM to forgive you of your sin and to come into your life brings about the miracle of salvation and the rebirth. You become a child of GOD through your faith in CHRIST. Your destination from earth is heaven. Christians may already be in a Bible teaching and believing church. If not they need to attend a church where truth is taught and they can be fed Spiritually and where they can obediently serve GOD as led by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. If you attend a certain church and sense something is wrong, it is likely the HOLY SPIRIT warning you. Pray about it and ask CHRIST to lead you to the church that is right for you and where you can grow and mature Spiritually.


Christians are indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT, therefore their bodies are the temple of GOD and they represent GOD to others. Christians are silent witnesses to a changed life because of CHRIST. Because of CHRIST in them, as they interact with others, Christians or non-Christians, they are a living message of what it means to be saved, belong to GOD and led by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. This does not replace verbal witnessing as the LORD leads.


Peter’s words apply as much to Christians today as to those of his day. Christians fight against the desires of the flesh. Paul gave us a list of some of desires of the flesh in Galatians 5:16-26 along with a challenge to walk in the Spirit: The Spirit versus the Flesh


16 I say then, • walk by the Spirit and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are obvious:[2] [3] sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, 21 envy,[4] drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar, about which I tell you in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,[5] 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. 26 We must not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.


Christians associate with non-Christians every day and it is important how they interact with the secular world because they represent CHRIST. This is often difficult when Christians have been wronged. But it is more important to reflect CHRIST because Christians are accountable for their actions and their actions can influence others either positively or negatively. Peter challenged Christians to be a positive influence because they do not want to be a stumbling block to those who are to receive salvation when the LORD offers them the opportunity. The word “visitation” which Peter used in verse 12 carries two (2) concepts – (1) judgment and condemnation and (2) salvation and grace. When GOD brings judgment and condemnation upon sinners, they will recognize and understand their rejection of CHRIST as revealed by the lives of the Christians they have encountered. The flip side is salvation and grace. Sinners that see CHRIST reflected in the lives of Christians may be drawn to a saving knowledge of CHRIST. CHRIST tells us that Christians are to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Christians have the light of CHRIST and are to let the light of CHRIST be shown through them, not to bring glory to themselves but to be a light to those who are in the darkness of sin. Salt makes a person thirsty. Christians should so live that others will thirst for what they have.


Being a Christian carries an awesome responsibility. That is why all Christians must have the right relationship with CHRIST because it is impossible to measure up in their own strength. Christians must walk in the Spirit.


Let’s read 1 Peter 3:1-7: Wives and Husbands

1 Wives,[1] in the same way, submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, even if some disobey the [Christian]* message, they may be won over[2] without a message by the way their wives live, 2 when they observe your pure, reverent lives. 3 Your beauty should not consist of outward things [like]* elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold ornaments[3] or fine clothes;[4] 4 instead, [it should consist of]* the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very valuable in God’s eyes. 5 For in the past, the holy women who hoped in God also beautified themselves in this way, submitting to their own husbands, 6 just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord.[5] You have become her children when you do good and aren’t frightened by anything alarming. 7 Husbands, in the same way, live with your wives with understanding of their weaker nature[6] yet showing them honor as co-heirs of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.


Peter had just completed a discussion regarding living such that your life, as a Christian, sends a message to non-Christians. Peter continued with a statement regarding Christian wives living their lives such that their lives will be a witness to their non-Christian husbands. This did not exclude their witness to their Christian husbands but it was more likely that their husbands would be non-Christian.


Let’s look at the scripture recorded in Ephesians 5:22-33: This is Paul writing to the Christians in Ephesus. Marriage - Christ and the Church:


22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. 24 Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. 28 So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. 30 For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. 31 "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." 32 This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33 Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.


Men be aware that the Bible instructs men to love their wives but it does not tell the women to love their husbands. Verse 33 states that the “wife is to respect her husband.” The key is this, if men loved and honored their wives as the Bible instructs then wives would submit to their husbands. Marriage is a partnership. When GOD made Eve, HE made her to be Adam’s helpmate. She was created to complete Adam and to come along his side to help him. The same is true that our relationship to CHRIST is a partnership and the HOLY SPIRIT indwells us to help us. The idea is for the husband to be the head of the family as CHRIST is the head of the true church. I know some women will say the husband can be the head as long as they are the neck because the neck turns the head. The order of authority is that the husband is a Christian and responsible to GOD as the Spiritual leader in the home. The sad part is that most women are the Spiritual leaders in the home and that is much of our problem in the world today. But blessings to the women who, in the absence of a husband leading their family Spiritually, they do it.


The Ephesians’ scripture focused on Christian husbands, whereas Peter was primarily addressing the non-Christian spouse/husband. The Christian spouse was not excluded. The idea was for the Christian spouse to live such that his/her non-Christian spouse would want to become a Christian. In this scripture Peter was focused on the role of the Christian wife having a non-Christian husband.


Peter makes it clear that wives are to submit to their own husbands and not to any man. Submitting does not mean becoming a door mat. It does not mean to do something contrary to what pleases GOD.


Peter admonished wives to live their lives in word and deed such that it sends the powerful redeeming message of CHRIST to their non-Christian husbands. When a person becomes a Christian after he/she has married and his/her spouse is not a Christian, this can produce a serious problem. The Bible is clear that if the non-Christian spouse cannot live with the Christian spouse, they have to make a decision. Young folks, this is why it is vital for those contemplating marriage to make sure that their future spouse is a Christian. They should be in agreement about what church or denomination they will attend after marriage for their Spiritual growth. Marriage has enough stress of its own and your relationship with CHRIST, as a couple, is vital in helping you through some of the difficult times.


Peter told the Christian women to let the inner beauty of CHRIST flow outwardly as they live with their non-Christian husbands, as obedient wives. That is, don’t be a nagging wife. Love your husband into a personal relationship with CHRIST. Now let me quickly say this does not mean the wife is to remain in an abusive relationship. It also does not mean that wives are to let themselves go regarding their outward appearance. What we put own is enhanced by allowing CHRIST to flow through us – Christian men or women.


Verse 4 states that the Christian wife’s beauty is to be “the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very valuable in God’s eyes.” Notice the word “imperishable.” Outward adorning and physical beauty will fade over time but the inner beauty resulting from the wife having a dynamic personal relationship with CHRIST will not fade and will only grow more valuable and beautiful over time. This goes for Christian husbands as well.


Peter asked his readers to reflect back over the Godly women recorded in the scriptures. He cites Sarah and her obedience to Abraham. She called him lord. I thought that was a nice touch – just kidding ladies.


Peter admonished husbands to acknowledge that their wives were physically weaker. This may be a stretch but I think Peter stated this to get husbands not to think that it was a macho thing to abuse their wives. Their Christian wives were Godly because CHRIST died for them and saved them and extended grace to them. They were worthy. In Bible times, women were treated more like cattle. So husbands show your Christian wives honor and respect so your prayers will not be hindered. Peter wanted the macho man to know that loving, honoring and respecting his wife was important to GOD and when he doesn’t, GOD considers it a very serious matter. GOD’S face is against evil and it is evil to abuse a woman and it is evil for a woman to abuse a man.


Let’s read 1 Peter 3:8-12: Do No Evil

8 Now finally, all of you should be like-minded and sympathetic, should love believers,[7] and be compassionate and humble,[8] 9 not paying back evil for evil or insult for insult but, on the contrary, giving a blessing,[9] since you were called for this, so that you can inherit a blessing. 10 For the one who wants to love life and to see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit, 11 and he must turn away from evil and do good. He must seek peace and pursue it, 12 because the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are open to their request. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.[10]


The use of the words “Now finally” does not mean that Peter was ending his letter. Peter was concluding this series of discussion and reminding Christians to put themselves in another’s shoes. Be empathetic with others. Christians are not to practice “an eye for an eye” philosophy but to return such hostility with a kind word and a blessing. Christians were “called” for this purpose. As they give a blessing to those who do them wrong, they will receive a blessing from GOD. This does not mean that you cannot defend yourself.


Such a response shows Christian maturity because a mature Christian knows that this life is temporary and how he/she reacts and responds to nasty people in this life can have a positive or negative influence. Peter wanted Christians to be Spiritually mature so they will respond in such a way that the non-Christian will see CHRIST in them.


The actions of Christians are important to GOD. HE watches over HIS children and HE hears their request. The Christian knows he/she is secure in CHRIST. GOD is on their side and HE takes the action needed against those who mistreat HIS children. HE is against those who do evil. Paul tells us in Romans 12:19-21: 19 Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for His[2] wrath. For it is written: Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay,[3] says the Lord. 20 But If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. For in so doing you will be heaping fiery coals on his head.[4]21 Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good.


Peter was telling his readers the same thing. Trust that GOD will fight your battles. Now this does not mean that you cannot defend yourself. If a person or persons threaten your life, then you have the right to defend your life.


This lesson is about relationships. Relationships come in all varieties – friends, family, marriage, business, work, school, neighbors and the list goes on. We read about young people bullying another person and it leading to serious emotional problems and even death. Young folks you are valuable to CHRIST. HE gave HIS life for you and you are very precious to HIM. So tell someone in authority if you are being bullied.

Bible Study - Confident Living - Ready for Action - 1 Peter - 2 Peter - March 13, 2011

Bible Study – Confident Living – Ready for Action – March 13, 2011

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Confident Living in Difficult Times.”
Our scripture is 1 Peter: 1:13-2:1.


It is hard for most Christians to think of themselves as Holy. It is important that Christians not think that they can achieve Holiness in their own strength. Holiness is the result of reflecting the presence of GOD in their lives. GOD is Holy and the extent others see CHRIST reflected in a Christian’s life, they see GOD. Holy means to be set apart. GOD is set apart and when people accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR, they are set apart or sanctified. Christians are set apart by GOD and for GOD for the purpose of obedient service. Yet GOD gives Christians the freewill to choose who they will serve – self or HIM.


When Christians are secure in CHRIST, they are prepared to obediently serve GOD. Let’s explore.


Let’s read 1 Peter 1:13-16: A Call to Holy Living


13 Therefore, get your minds ready for action,[19] [20] being self-disciplined, and set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance[21] 15 but, as the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; 16 for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.[22] [23]

The word “therefore” refers back to the verses 1-12 which we studied last week. Since Christians are confident in their relationship with CHRIST, their faith has been tested and they are ready for action. But in order to be ready for battle or action with Satan and his evil forces, a Christian must be prepared mentally. Satan uses world circumstances and every day relationships to challenge Christians. GOD allows Christians to be tested, not for HIM to see how they measure up but for them to see how they measure up. Testing reveals flaws and areas where Christians can see where they are vulnerable.


Christians can remove themselves from the circle of protection that GOD provides by yielding to temptation and sinning. Christians are still housed in a body of flesh and the key question is, “Who rules their lives – self or CHRIST?”

Peter challenged Christians to realize that they were secure in CHRIST through GOD’S Grace. Once they prepared their minds and internalized their security in CHRIST, then they could face anything Satan could throw their way.

The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 6:12-13:
12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.[11] 13 This is why you must take up the full armor[12] of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand.


Peter told his readers that the revelation of CHRIST, through HIS shed blood and their faith in HIM resulted in them being able to experience the miracle of rebirth, which made them GOD’S children. Salvation resulted in them being born into GOD’S family. As GOD’S children they were to live like GOD’S children and not return to their former un-Godly lives. They represented GOD because they were made righteous through CHRIST and their relationship with GOD made them Holy. They have the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT living in them obediently directing their lives, according to GOD’S plan and purpose. Since GOD is HOLY and HE has redeemed them through the shed blood of CHRIST, they are HOLY.


2 Corinthians 5:21:
21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us (Christians), so that we (Christians) might become the righteousness of God in Him (CHRIST).


At the instant of salvation, Christians are set aside (Sanctified) for the purposes of GOD because they are made righteous through the shed blood of CHRIST. Yet, Christians have the free will to choose who they will serve – their flesh or GOD. When Christians face temptation, trials, adversity they must know who they belong to and who they represent. The more solid the Christian’s relationship is in his/her mind and heart, there is no question who he/she will serve when faced with a choice.

GOD has told us that we will face temptation and trials. In 1 Corinthians 10:13:


13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it.


Temptation is a part of life. GOD understands that HIS children will be tempted. But GOD is in charge and will not allow HIS children to be tempted beyond their ability to resist. Not only that but when we are tempted, HE will make a way to escape. The problem occurs when we do not escape when the opportunity presents itself. When serving our LORD is more important than serving the flesh and we will look for a way to escape. But when sin blinds us, the flesh rules, we suffer the consequences of our sin. Can GOD forgive us? YES, when we confess our sin and repent (turn from it) of our sin, GOD forgives, cleanses, forgets and restores. Often the scar remains, which reveals our vulnerability and the grace of GOD.


What is the difference between righteous and Holy? We can use the word “righteous” to help us understand the two words. A person has been made righteous when he/she accepts CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR. We see in 2 Corinthians 5:21, a believer is made in right standing with GOD. This occurs because he/she has been cleansed and made righteous through the shed blood of CHRIST. The shed blood of CHRIST washes away all sin and the person has been made whiter than snow. This allows the Christian to be born anew into the family of GOD. The miracle of rebirth by the Spirit of GOD allows the born-again believer to be HOLY, just as GOD is HOLY. The new believer has been born-again by the seed of GOD, which we will see in our last scripture in this lesson.


Let’s read 1 Peter 1:17-21:
17 And if you address as Father the One who judges impartially based on each one’s work, you are to conduct yourselves in reverence during this time of temporary residence. 18 For you know that you were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things, like silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish. 20 He was destined[24] before the foundation of the world, but was revealed at the end of the times for you 21 who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead[25] and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.


Peter told his readers when you know that GOD is your FATHER, you also know that HE will also judge your obedience to HIM. Now let’s consider John 5:24:


24 “I (JESUS) assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.


When a person becomes a Christians he/she will not be judged for his/sins because they are covered by the blood of CHRIST. However, a Christian will be judged for his/her obedience to serving GOD. GOD will judge and give out rewards based upon a Christian’s obedient service as led by the HOLY SPIRIT.


First Corinthians 3:11:
11 because no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid—that is, Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each one’s work will become obvious, for the day[4] will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire.[5]16 Don’t you know that you are God’s sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 If anyone ruins God’s sanctuary, God will ruin him; for God’s sanctuary is holy, and that is what you are.


Once saved, all Christians build upon the foundation of CHRIST. They either build with materials which will endure that test of fire or materials which will burn up when tested with fire or some combination of these materials. These materials are our rewards. Only the rewards resulting from obedient service to GOD, gold, silver and precious stones, will survive the test of fire. Notice in verse 15, that all Christians will be saved but their work may be consumed by the fire. Everyone’s work will be tested by our FATHER WHO judges impartially. Our FATHER will judge whether or not the work we do for HIM is gold, silver, precious stones or wood, hay or straw.


A Christian’s mind should be centered upon the grace and hope he/she has through the living CHRIST and obediently serving GOD during the time he/she has upon earth.


GOD had HIS plan to redeem mankind from sin and death before the foundations of the world. HE also chose us as well, as stated in Ephesians 1:4: 4 for He chose[3] us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] In love[5]

GOD allowed HIS ONLY SON to come to earth and live as a human, yet divine, to give HIS life by the shedding of HIS blood for the sins of mankind and to be buried. GOD raised CHRIST from the dead as proof and assurance that CHRIST was the perfect sacrifice to pay for the sins of all who would believe in HIM. CHRIST’S resurrection from the dead by GOD is proof that HE paid the penalty for sin and conquered death. Death no longer holds those hostage, who accept CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR. But CHRIST gives all who believe in HIM eternal life through the miracle of rebirth. A Christian’s hope is in the living resurrected CHRIST. What a joy!!!


Let’s read 1 Peter 1:22-1 Peter 2:1-3:
22 By obedience to the truth,[26] having purified yourselves[27] for sincere love of the brothers, love one another[28] earnestly from a pure[29] heart, 23 since you have been born again—not of perishable seed but of imperishable[30]—through the living and enduring word of God. 24 For All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like a flower of the grass. The grass withers, and the flower drops off, 25 but the word of the Lord endures forever.[31] [32]And this is the word that was preached as the gospel to you.


Since Christians have responded to the truth of CHRIST, they have been purified and born into GOD’S family. Fellow Christians are now a Christian’s brothers and sisters in CHRIST, therefore, Christians can love one another as family because they all have the same FATHER. Christians have been born again not of perishable seed (sperm) but imperishable seed (divine sperm) through the living and eternal Word of GOD. All flesh appears for a little while and then dies and goes away but that which is born of GOD endures forever/eternally. GOD’S Word is powerful and when spoken is like seeds broadcast to all. As seeds, HIS Word falls upon the soil of the mind and either takes root or withers and dies. When it takes root it produces results. Let GOD’S Word take root in your mind and heart. It is the power unto salvation.

1 Peter 2:1-3: The Living Stone and a Holy People
1 So rid yourselves of[1] all wickedness, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, desire the unadulterated spiritual milk,[2] so that you may grow by it in [your]* salvation,[3] [4] 3 since you have tasted that the Lord is good.[5]


The Apostle Peter gave his readers a check list to evaluate their lives. They are to evaluate and get rid of:


- All Wickedness (Malice is used in other translations and is a broad term used for all that is bad, evil and depraved.)
- All deceit – means being “two-faced.”
- All hypocrisy – related to deceit meaning “playing a part.”
- All envy – Selfishness – desiring what someone else has – position, title, wealth, charisma, Spiritual gift or gifts, etc.
- All slander – “evil speaking” which includes “Gossip.” Christians have to be careful that asking for prayer for someone not to be an avenue for gossip. Prayer is vital when people are going through difficult times and need to have many praying for them.

Verse 2 - New born babies need milk to grow and sustain life. Christians are born into the family of GOD and are new born Spiritual babies who need the Spiritual nourishment that comes from the milk of GOD’S Word. After growth and maturity the Christian can feed upon the meat of GOD’S Word. To me this is one area where many churches fail new Christians. Some churches have new member’s classes which have to do more with church policy and governance than with helping them understand their relationship with CHRIST.

GOD desires for all of HIS children’s lives to be examined in the light of HIS Word and under the direction of the HOLY SPIRIT to ensure that they are reflecting HIM to all who they encounter. I heard a poem many years ago which is copied below:


The Gospel According To You...


There's a Gospel according to Matthew; To Mark;
To Luke; and John too.
There's another gospel that many are reading...
The Gospel according to You.


All teachings we find in the Bible
Are facts we know to be true;
You must live them to make them the Gospel...
The Gospel according to You


Many read not the words of the Bible;
I will tell you what some of them do...
They are reading the book you are writing...
The Gospel according to you.


There's Great Power In Gospel Preaching
The Bible teaches that this is true.
But the sermon most likely to influence others
Is The Gospel according to You.


God help us to be faithful to Jesus...
To live all His teachings so true,
So that all may see His Spirit
In the Gospel according to You


You are writing a gospel, a chapter each day;
By things that you do; By things you say.
Others read that gospel, whether faithless or true!
Say! What is the Gospel According To You?


Leroy Brownlow


Holy living is not something Christians can attain in their own strength but as they yield their lives to CHRIST and build their relationship with HIM. Salvation is just the beginning. Salvation saves us from the penalty of sin. Christians are being saved from the power of sin as they live upon earth and when either CHRIST returns to earth or they meet HIM in heaven, they are saved from the presence of sin. GOD’S Word is more powerful than a two-edged sword, it convicts and converts sinners to salvation and causes Christians to grow and mature in CHRIST. Read, study and meditate upon HIS Word. It is vital for your Spiritual health. Begin with the Book of John.

Bible Study - Confident Living - Faith under Fire - 1 Peter 1 - March 6, 2011

Bible Study – Confident Living – Faith under Fire – March 6, 2011

We begin a new series of study entitled “Confident Living in Difficult Times.”
Our scripture for the month of March will be taken from First Peter. Our scripture for this lesson is 1 Peter 1:1-12.


First Peter was a letter written by the Apostle Peter to encourage Christians who were and would likely face trials and persecution during the rule of the Emperor Nero. During most of the first century, Christians were persecuted socially and economically. Much of the persecution came from the hands of non-Christian Jews and their families. Later, Christians would be rounded up, tortured and killed for sport by the Romans.


Many Christians had scattered to other areas, as stated in Peter’s letter, to escape harassment and discrimination because of their faith in CHRIST.


Let’s read 1 Peter 1:1-5: Greeting
1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ: To the temporary residents[1] of the Dispersion[2] in the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia (KAP uh DOH shih uh), • Asia, and Bithynia (bih THIN ih uh), chosen 2 according to the foreknowledge[3] of God the Father and set apart[4] by the Spirit for obedience and [for the]* sprinkling with the blood[5] of Jesus Christ. May grace and peace be multiplied to you.


It is believed that most Christians either knew Peter or had heard of him, thus he began his letter simply stating his name. We have to remember that it was Peter who preached on the Day of Pentecost in Jerusalem and about 3,000 people became Christians. Those hearing Peter’s message, inspired by the HOLY SPIRIT which had indwelled Peter and others, were from the places cited in today’s scripture. This was recorded by Doctor Luke in Acts 2:5-10:


5 There were Jews living in Jerusalem, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 When this sound occurred, the multitude came together and was confused because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7 And they were astounded and amazed, saying,[1] “Look, aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 How is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? 9 Parthians, Medes, Elamites; those who live in Mesopotamia, in Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and • Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome, both Jews and • proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own languages the magnificent acts of God.”


Acts 2:14
14 But Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice, and proclaimed to them: “Jewish men and all you residents of Jerusalem, let this be known to you and pay attention to my words.


Acts 2:37-42:
37 When they heard this (GOD’S message of salvation), they were pierced to the heart and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles: “Brothers, what must we do?” 38 “Repent,” Peter said to them, “and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus the Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all who are far off,[12] as many as the Lord our God will call.” 40 And with many other words he testified and strongly urged them, saying, “Be saved from this corrupt[13] generation!”


A Generous and Growing Church
41 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about 3,000 people were added to them. 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayers.


Peter wrote his letter to the “temporary residents of the Dispersion” about 32 years after Pentecost. When the Jews were displaced they referred to themselves as the “Diaspora”, which means scattered and referred to Jews who lived outside of the Promised Land in the period before CHRIST. Here the term referred to the Christians who lived outside of new Israel or the period Christians lived outside of Israel after the passion of CHRIST. The provinces stated in our scripture are the areas we know today as Turkey.


Notice the word “chosen”. This is a beautiful word when it relates to being chosen by GOD. In our study dated February 20, 2011, we considered the word “chosen.”


Why did GOD choose the Israelites? HE chose them because HE loved them.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 7:7-11: (Old Testament)
7 “The LORD was devoted to you and chose you, not because you were more numerous than all peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. 8 But because the LORD loved you and kept the oath He swore to your fathers, He brought you out with a strong hand and redeemed you from the place of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh King of Egypt. (Remember what GOD has done for you and delivered you.) 9 Know that • Yahweh your God is God, the faithful God who keeps His gracious covenant loyalty for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commands. 10 But He directly pays back[3] and destroys those who hate Him.[4] He will not hesitate to directly pay back[5] the one who hates Him. 11 So keep the command—the statutes and ordinances—that I am giving you to follow today.


GOD chose you before HE created the world. Ephesians 1:4-5: (New Testament)

4 for He chose[3] us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] In love[5] 5 He predestined[6] us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will,


Some may be concerned with use of the word “predestined.” Our scripture we are studying gives us some insight into the workings of GOD. The Trinity is involved in salvation.


Why did GOD choose us? Because HE loved us – John 3:16:


16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10]


Just as the Israelites were in bondage and slavery in Egypt, people are in bondage and slavery to sin and death. GOD chose to deliver the Israelites from their plight. HE heard their plea for help and HE responded because HE loved them. Humans are in bondage and slavery to sin and death. GOD chose, through grace, to allow HIS ONLY SON, JESUS, to come to earth to live and be tempted as all are tempted. HE gave HIS sinless life for the sins of the world and was buried and HE raised HIM from the dead as proof that CHRIST had paid the price for sin. Proof that CHRIST fulfilled HIS mission was HIS resurrection and ascension back to heaven to sit at the right hand of GOD. CHRIST’S passion opened the way for all who would believe that HE died for their sins to ask HIM to forgive them for their sins and accept HIM as their SAVIOR. Faith in CHRIST and HIS shed blood sets all who believe in HIM free from the bondage of sin and eternal death. But each individual person has to make the decision whether or not to accept or reject CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR.


In verse 2, Peter revealed the Trinity’s involvement in salvation. GOD the FATHER uses HIS foreknowledge to know who will choose to accept CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR. The HOLY SPIRIT works in the hearts and lives of all who are to receive salvation. Hebrews 1:14: 14 Are they (Angels) not all ministering spirits sent out to serve those who are going to inherit salvation?


Once a person acknowledges CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR, the HOLY SPIRIT indwells and sets him/her apart. At the instant of salvation the person is covered (sprinkled) by the shed blood of CHRIST and redeemed from the clutches of sin and eternal death. Remember that the last plague brought upon the Egyptians was the death of their first born. GOD instructed the Israelites to place the blood of the lamb on the door post of their home for their first born to be spared from physical death. The shed blood of the Lamb of GOD, CHRIST, covers all Christians. At the instant of salvation, the new Christian is secured through a covenant bond (rebirth) with GOD through the shed blood of CHRIST. The new Christian is set apart by GOD for use, which is sanctification. The degree GOD will use a Christian depends upon his/her choice. GOD never violates a person’s right to free choice, even in serving HIM. It is HIS desire for all of HIS children to obediently serve HIM.


The sprinkling of blood signifies a covenant relationship with GOD. In the Old Testament, Exodus 19:5 states - 5 Now if you will listen to Me and carefully keep My covenant, you will be My own possession out of all the peoples, although all the earth is Mine,[1] and Exodus 24:8 - 8 Moses took the blood, sprinkled it on the people, and said, “This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you concerning all these words.” The covenant was sealed by the sprinkling of blood.


In the New Testament 1 Peter: 18-19 - 18 For you know that you were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things, like silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish.


Salvation involves GOD, THE FATHER, THE HOLY SPIRIT and CHRIST.


- GOD the FATHER chooses the person (sinner) for salvation. I believe all people are chosen but he/she has the freewill to accept or reject CHRIST.
- GOD the HOLY SPIRIT works in the “eyes of a person’s heart” to bring that person (sinner) to a point of decision to accept or reject JESUS CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR.
- GOD the SON cleanses the person who accepts CHRIST from all sin – Present, Past and Future by HIS shed blood.


In Deuteronomy 7:7 it states that GOD chose Israel because HE loved them and HE delivered them from Egyptian bondage and slavery. Israel’s deliverance from Egypt was GOD’S choice. Allowing CHRIST to come to earth was GOD’S choice because of HIS love for all people.


In Ephesians 1:4 it states that GOD chose us in HIM before the foundation of the world. In my opinion, subject to much debate, I believe that every person who has lived and that will ever live has been chosen by GOD. GOD will send the HOLY SPIRIT to work in the heart of every person. That person will have an opportunity to accept or reject CHRIST. Christians are to present the Gospel message as led by the HOLY SPIRIT but GOD brings about salvation. This means every person (babies, children, mentally challenged) is covered under GOD’S choice until they become knowledgeable of their need for CHRIST. GOD delivers them by HIS choice until they reject HIM and refuse to repent of their sins and continue in disobedience, disbelief that GOD is real and the worship of the things the world has to offer (idols – anything that comes between them and GOD). Even the vilest person can repent and ask CHRIST to forgive him/her and to come into his/her life. But the more a person rejects the wooing of the HOLY SPIRIT, the harder his/her heart becomes. If this is your situation and you feel the tug of the HOLY SPIRIT in your heart, please respond to that urging right now by asking CHRIST to forgive you and to come into your life. HE is waiting but it is choice – eternal life with GOD or eternal death without GOD.


Let’s read 1 Peter 1:3-5: A Living Hope

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth[6] into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that is imperishable, uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.


Peter praised GOD before he wrote about HIM. GOD allowed HIS ONLY SON, JESUS, to leave heaven and come to earth to live as a human. Because of the love and mercy (grace) of GOD for the people HE created, HE allowed JESUS to give HIS life for the sins of mankind, through the shedding of HIS blood. This reveals the great mercy or grace GOD has for all people. The living hope for all people is the resurrected CHRIST. Christians have faith in a living SAVIOR, WHO conquered sin and death.


The proof that JESUS was the perfect and acceptable sacrifice for sin is in the fact that GOD raised HIM from the dead. JESUS’ resurrection is proof of a Christian’s salvation and eternal life which is confirmed and guaranteed by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.


Salvation is just the beginning of the process of sanctification. Once a person asks CHRIST to forgive him/her for his/her sins and to come into his/her life the process of sanctification begins. Sanctification means to be set aside for use by GOD; to be made saint like.


When Christians are born into the family of GOD they are saved from sin and death but they are still living in their earth suits (human bodies). Until Christians leave this earth in death, they are in a constant state of being saved by the power of GOD from the power of sin. When a Christian’s earth suit dies, their born-again Spirit exits and is immediately in heaven with GOD and CHRIST. At that instant, when they see CHRIST they will be like HIM and salvation is fully realized. Salvation then immediately turns to glorification. At the appointed time by GOD, CHRIST will return to earth and the Christians who departed this earth in death will return with HIM. At that moment they will receive their new glorified bodies, which will be just like JESUS’ resurrected body.


As long as Christians live upon earth in their earth suits they are in the process of being saved from the power of sin with the assurance, as stated in verse 5, that they are protected by GOD’S power. Just as JESUS had to trust HIS FATHER to raise HIM from the dead, so do Christians have to trust GOD, through faith, for their salvation. CHRIST is our living hope. It is because HE lives, so will we live eternally.


A Christian’s hope is through the resurrected CHRIST and the miracle of rebirth. Through the miracle of rebirth a Christian is born into GOD’S family with a promise of an inheritance which is “is imperishable, uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.” The word “kept” was a military word meaning “under military protection.” A Christian’s inheritance is under the protection of the power of GOD.


Christians are kept from the power of sin (eternal death) through the shed blood of CHRIST by the power of GOD. Fellow Christians, we are all sinners saved by the grace of GOD because HE loved us. HIS grace is sufficient to get us through this life and into heaven. Do not allow Satan to rob you of this great inheritance by listening to his lies. If you have asked CHRIST to forgive you for your sins and for HIM to come into your life, you are GOD’S child and will always be HIS child. If you have strayed from HIM, repent and return. HE is waiting. For those who have never asked GOD for forgiveness, ask CHRIST to forgive you for your sins and to come into your life now because today is the day of salvation. Tomorrow is not promised to any of us.


Let’s read 1 Peter 1:6-9:
6 You rejoice in this,[7] though now for a short time you have had to be distressed by various trials 7 so that the genuineness of your faith[8]—more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire[9]—may result in[10] praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 You love Him, though you have not seen Him. And though not seeing Him now, you believe in Him[11] and rejoice with inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 because you are receiving the goal of your[12] faith, the salvation of your souls.[13]


Peter addressed the brevity of life upon earth compared to eternity. We have to keep in mind that we were not made for time but for eternity. Our time upon earth is to prepare us for eternity. So when trials come our way, they are for testing and proving the genuineness of our faith. Gold is purified with fire but gold is also tested with fire. Adulterants can be added to gold. Fire is used to test the genuineness or purity of the gold. When our faith is tested it is to reveal to us the areas where there are flaws. Weak areas can be strengthened so that Christians will remain faithful and depend upon GOD through all circumstances.


Peter told his readers to “rejoice.” Christians can only rejoice during trials when they have the knowledge, understanding and assurance that they are secure in CHRIST. This comes about by having the right relationship with CHRIST. This rejoicing is not elation and ignoring the circumstances a person is facing. But it is the confidence and trust that he/she belongs to GOD through CHRIST and HE is in control and sovereign in all matters. He/she is secure in CHRIST under all circumstances.


This week, I was talking with a brother in ministry. The ministry places him in some dangerous situations. Someone ask him if he had ever thought about getting shot. He said, no. But since that question, he has thought about it and came to the conclusion that his destination was heaven, so why should he be concerned.


Bottom line, most of us do not want to leave this life on earth. We have family, friends and things we enjoy. It is hard for us to envision what GOD has prepared for us in heaven.


If we had been asked whether or not we wanted to leave the comfort and security of our mother’s womb and experience life on earth, most of us would have said no. I am glad I was born and can live in a wonderfully made and crafted body and experience life. What GOD has prepared for those who love HIM is beyond their comprehension. When we internalize salvation, life and life after death becomes exciting. Hope in CHRIST should lead to joy. CHRIST came that Christians can live the abundant life upon earth because they do not have to fear physical death. Their abundant life comes from being obedient servants of GOD here upon earth.


Peter stated that the testing of our faith was necessary to verify and determine the genuineness of our faith. Gold is tested to determine its genuineness. It is by faith that Christians love CHRIST although they have never seen HIM. Once they encounter HIM through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, their Spiritual eyes are opened and are in awe of the vast wealth they have in HIM. It is beyond anything material wealth or position could offer.


When you consider what HE has done for you, which is impossible for you to do for yourself (salvation), rejoice. This joy comes because you realize that you have an unspeakable gift that can only come through a personal relationship with CHRIST, through faith.


Let’s read 1 Peter 10-12:
10 Concerning this salvation, the prophets[14] who prophesied about the grace that would come to you searched and carefully investigated. 11 They inquired into what time or what circumstances[15] the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating when He testified in advance to the messianic sufferings[16] [17] and the glories that would follow.[18] 12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you concerning things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Angels desire to look into these things.


Peter addressed salvation. The prophets of the Old Testament prophesied about salvation and grace. GOD had led them to prophesy as to the timeline for the coming of the Promised Messiah, the passion of the Messiah and HIS resurrection. The HOLY SPIRIT was actively leading these prophets to write about salvation and grace, as well as, all who preached the Gospel. The angels played a vital role in preparing the way for CHRIST and for Christians to obediently serve GOD. As mentioned in the scripture Hebrews 1:14, angels are ministering spirits for those who are to receive salvation.


Angels are mystified by the concept of salvation and rejoice when a person chooses to accept CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR. The prophets who wrote of the Messiah longed to see this prophesy fulfilled. All who have lived since the passion of CHRIST have had the joy of seeing this prophesy regarding CHRIST fulfilled and experience salvation and grace. We wait now for HIS second coming. Since the passion of CHRIST and Pentecost, people have had the opportunity to experience salvation and the indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT. Christians are surrounded with tools to equip them to grow and mature Spiritually but often they rely upon the experiences of others rather than seeking their experiences through obedient service. We have a wealth of Christian book knowledge but fall short of experiential knowledge. Seek to build an intimate, loving relationship with CHRIST and get to really know HIM through obedient service. Be honest with HIM and tell HIM the fears or concerns you have if you commit your life to HIM. Listen, study the Bible and watch as HE reveals more of Himself to you.


If you have not accepted CHRIST as your SAVIOR, today is the day of salvation!!!