Exiles: 1 Peter 3:13-17 | Week 14 - James Sharp

The Apostle Peter wrote the letter we call 1 Peter while persecution against Christians was simmering in and around ancient Rome. He wanted his readers to be prepared for hard things to come, and he sought to prepare them by reminding them of their identity as the chosen people of God, living as exiles in a world of suffering.

We continue our series in 1 Peter looking at 1 Peter 3:13-17.

Suffering in 1 Peter

• 1 Peter 2:19-20
• 1 Peter 3:9
• 1 Peter 4:13, 16, 19
• 1 Peter 5:9-10

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven…” Matthew 5:10-12a

Three Questions Christians Must Answer to Suffer Well:

1. Who do I fear most?
2. What is my true hope?
3. How then shall I speak?

Whose approval matters most to me?

“Hope is a heartfelt, joyful conviction that our short-term future is governed by an all-caring God, and our long-term future, beyond death, will be happy beyond imagination in the presence of the all-satisfying glory of God.” - John Piper

Do I live in such a way that the world might be compelled to ask me about my hope?

Do I really care for and love the people with whom I disagree?

Communion Reflection Questions:
Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 1 Corinthians 11:27-28

Examine yourself: What sinful thought, word, or deed do you need now to confess to the Lord? 

What have you done, or left undone, that you need now to confess to Him?

Life Church exists to glorify God by making disciples who treasure Christ, grow together, and live on mission. Salisbury, NC

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