What Is Important in the End?

James Rochford
1 Peter 4:7-11

Peter warns that the end of all things is near. The unbelieving world lives without hope because they think this world is all there is. Death results in a terrifying oblivion. But believers can live a fruitful, meaningful life her and now because we know that there is a reward waiting for us when we die to this world. We can invest in that which is most important, God and other people, while we are here on earth because we know the glories awaiting us in heaven. We know that what we do here on earth has profound effect for eternity.

Shepherd of the Flock

Scott Risley
1 Peter 5:1-7

In the Old Testament and the New, God often uses the imagery of a shepherd when describing leaders of God's people. Jesus is the ultimate shepherd of His people. Peter exhorts the elders in his audience to shepherd the flock of God 1) with an attitude of "I get to" rather than "I have to," 2) eager to give rather than eager to take, 3) serving under versus lording over, and 4) humbling yourself versus exalting yourself. When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Spiritual Lifestyle in a Rugged World

Dennis McCallum
1 Peter 4:12-19

Peter offers six things to do or not do when encountering suffering as a Christian. Firstly, do not be surprised! Jesus told us the world first hated Him and will hate us as well. Secondly, keep on rejoicing. We can rejoice because suffering teaches us many valuable lessons. Thirdly, do not bring on unnecessary suffering by sinning. Fourthly, do not be ashamed because you bear the name of the One who was not ashamed to go to the cross for us. Fifthly, entrust your soul to a faithful Creator because surely the One who created you will also take care of you in all circumstances. Finally, continue in doing what is right even in the face of difficulties.

Friendship and the End of the World

Scott Risley
1 Peter 4:7-11

Peter teaches that since the end of all things is near, we should draw near to God in prayer. As the end nears, we will need our relationships to endure the suffering that will follow. We should draw near to others in fervent love, serving, being hospitable and using our spiritual gifts to build up the Body of Christ.

Body Building

Dennis McCallum
1 Peter 4:8-11

Peter encourages every believer to use the spiritual gifts God has given them for the building up of the Body of Christ. Every believer has been given at least one special gift. All are gifted differently so don't compare yourself to another. Using our gifting to the best of our ability enhances community and is intensely pleasurable without negative side affects. Our gifting is also a stewardship so that the greater the gifting, the greater the expectation to use the gifting well.

Keeping the Heat Off, Continued

Dennis McCallum
1 Peter 3:1-9

We are so far removed from the culture of the time of this passage that it is hard to realize how radically liberating this was for women especially. The Bible has a high view of women, unlike the widespread view at the time. God calls women daughters and co-heirs with Christ. Jesus was the only rabbi to include women as his disciples. Peter calls for a different approach to marriage where the husband does not view his wife as a laborer or commodity but as an equal partner whom he serves sacrificially. Successful marriages that follow the Bible's view will really stand out in this fallen world.

Believers Under Pressure

Dennis McCallum
1 Peter 2:11-24

Since believers are living as foreigners in a hostile world, we should not give in to the temptations of our flesh as the world does, but we should be different. Our good deeds should set us apart and silence those who slander us. If we bear up under unjust suffering for the sake of the gospel, this finds favor with God. We have been called to follow Jesus' example of suffering for the sake of others. By His wounds, many are healed.

Living in a War Zone

Scott Risley
1 Peter 2:11-12

Christians live as foreigners in a hostile land. Jesus warned us that since the world hated him, they will hate us as well. For the sake of our own soul and for the sake of our witness, Peter exhorts believers to abstain from fleshly lusts that wage war against our souls. We can overcome evil with good and silence foolish men by letting them see our good deeds.

The Power of the Word

Dennis McCallum
1 Peter 1:22-2:3

It is the Word of God that empowers us to love fervently from the heart. It is the imperishable, life germinating seed that endures forever. The Word of God is a source of wisdom, victorious prayer, effective ministry, and character transformation. God works through his Word creating faith, nurturing growth and empowering ministry.