I Peter 2

October 1, 2006

 

1.      Because of our love for Jesus and our gratitude for His forgiveness, we do two things:

 

a)      Get rid of the hurtful, disobedient behavior and attitudes

b)      Accept God’s love and wisdom as we mature spiritually

 

2.      We don’t always recognize God’s revelations.  We ask Him to enable us to see Jesus as the mainstay/cornerstone/foundation/guide and example for our life.

 

3.      We are called by God to be together as living stones into a “sanctuary vibrant with life”.  That means ‘Lone Ranger’ Christianity is not God-pleasing.  It means that we are intended to be together in community.

 

4.      If we don’t trust Jesus, we will experience His judgment and condemnation.

 

5.      To be chosen by God is a privilege and a responsibility.  We are chosen to serve as priests, holy ones, servants and witnesses.

 

6.      Peter reminds us that we are resident aliens.  As such, we are to have God’s priorities and ethics, as we avoid contamination by the world’s standards.

 

7.      We live as model citizens so that criticisms and accusations will be counteracted by our law-abiding behavior and our acts of service toward others.

 

8.      We treat others with respect and consideration, even though we may not accept their behavior as ‘godly’.

 

9.      “Work as unto the Lord” gives us a healthy perspective on all of our job situations and relationships.

 

10.  We let Jesus’ example of patient suffering and consistent obedience help us with our pressures and temptations.

 

11.  Jesus is our Good Shepherd, as He guides & blesses us, directs us and goes ahead of us.