Resurrected Life Here & Now ~ New Purpose & Identity

In this sermon, we continue our Easter season series exploring 1st Peter and discuss that, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, believers are born again into a living hope that is not just a future but a present reality.  Drawing from 1 Peter 2:4-10, we learn that we have been given a wondrous new identity and purpose in this.

At the heart of this identity and purpose is Jesus, the living stone and cornerstone, the foundation upon which believers build their lives. As people come to Him, they too become “living stones,” being formed into a spiritual house—a holy priesthood set apart for God.  This new identity carries a missional purpose: to proclaim God’s excellencies and reflect His light in a dark world. Believers are now God’s chosen people, recipients of His mercy, called to live differently and make Him known. Ultimately, calling us to align our lives fully with Christ, embracing both our new identity and our God-given purpose.

((Audio Only))

STUDY GUIDE

1 – In 1 Peter 1:3, what does it mean to be “born again to a living hope,” and how is this hope experienced in the present?

2 – What evidence should be visible in a believer’s life that shows they are living in this new hope and new life in Christ?

3 – Why is it important that Jesus is described as the “living stone” and “cornerstone”? What does this reveal about our faith?

4 – What does it mean for believers to be “living stones” being built into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5)?

5 – How should understanding our identity as a “chosen race, royal priesthood, and holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9) shape the way we live?

6 – What are “spiritual sacrifices,” and how do we offer them in our daily lives?

7 – What warning does Peter give about rejecting or stumbling over the cornerstone, and how can we guard against this?

8 – According to this sermon, what is the primary purpose of the Church and of every believer? How can you live this out this week?

~ For Further Reflection ~

• What is one area of your life that may be out of alignment with Jesus as your cornerstone, and what step can you take to realign it?

Scripture References

1 Peter 1:3
Romans 6:4
2 Corinthians 5:17
1 Peter 2:4-10
Genesis 12:3
Galatians 3:27-29
Isaiah 28:16
Psalm 118:22
Hebrews 10:10-12
Hebrews 13:15
Romans 12:1
1 Peter 1:1
1 Peter 1:4-5

~ Referenced But Not Read ~

Romans 11:11-24
Hosea 1-2