Resurrected Life Here & Now ~ The Best Way How

Today, we return to our Eastertide series over 1 Peter, emphasizing how we have been “born again to a living hope” through Christ’s resurrection, and how Peter writes to believers who were suffering persecution and living as “elect exiles,” reminding them and us that although this world is not our true home, we are God’s chosen and beloved people and we have an important purpose in it.

Beginning to highlight how we do this.  Peter shows us we are called to live differently by abstaining from sinful passions that wage war against the soul and by maintaining honorable conduct before the world in the name of Jesus.  Peter teaches that our holy living becomes a testimony that points others toward God.

Ultimately, our message today will seek to challenge us to embrace our identity as God’s beloved people, living faithfully as sojourners and exiles while proclaiming the excellencies of Christ through lives marked by holiness, love, humility, and good works in a world filled with tension and opposition.

((Audio Only))

STUDY GUIDE

1 – Why does Peter describe believers as “sojourners and exiles”? In what ways should Christians live differently because this world is not their true home?

2 – The sermon emphasized that believers are God’s “beloved.” How does understanding your identity in Christ affect the way you live and respond to hardship?

3 – Read 1 Peter 2:11. What are “the passions of the flesh,” and why does Peter say they “wage war against your soul”?

4 – What practical steps can Christians take to “abstain” from sinful desires and pursue holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit?

5 – Read 1 Peter 2:12. What does it mean to “keep your conduct honorable” among unbelievers? What are some examples of honorable conduct in everyday life?

6 – Peter wrote during a time of intense persecution under Emperor Nero. How does knowing the historical context strengthen the meaning of Peter’s encouragement?

7 – The sermon taught that our lives should become a testimony to others. How can good works and Christlike behavior help others “glorify God on the day of visitation”?

8 – How do the themes of holiness, repentance, and identity connect together throughout this passage and sermon?

9 – What is one area of your life where God may be calling you to respond more like Jesus this week?

Scripture References

Acts 1:3-9
1 Peter 1:3
1 Peter 2:4-5
1 Peter 2:9-10
1 Peter 1:1
Hebrews 13:14
1 Peter 2:11-12
1 Peter 1:14-16
1 Peter 2:1
1 Peter 2:11
Ephesians 4:22-24
Galatians 3:28
2 Corinthians 5:17
1 Peter 2:15, 20, 3:13, & 16

~ Referenced But Not Read ~

1 Peter 2:13-3:7
Ephesians 6:10-19