1 Peter: Is All of This Worth It?预览

“Christian.” A follower of Christ. From the second century AD until today, Christians in many places have worn the title with honor. But when Peter wrote this letter, it was not a word of honor. It was a word of derision. [In fact, it is only used two other times in the New Testament (Acts 11:26; 26:28).] Pagans mocked the followers of Jesus by calling them “Christians.” Like a racial slur, it was never used in kindness or with respect. So when Peter’s letter was read aloud, the people would have had a visceral reaction to the word. It was a label spit at them on the streets. So why did Peter use it? Because he doesn’t want them to be ashamed to stand up for Christ. He doesn’t want them to be ashamed to live differently. He doesn’t want them to abandon truth, abandon hope, abandon eternity just to make the insults go away. 

Whatever they say, whatever they do, do not be ashamed to love and serve God. Do not be ashamed to love and to serve one another. Do not be ashamed to love and serve even those who spit on you.

ASK:

-When Jesus was arrested, Peter was ashamed to be recognized as one of His followers. What do you think Peter learned from that time until he wrote this letter?

-To what degree are your words and actions determined by how others will perceive them? How does this help/harm your witness for Jesus?

TAKE A NEXT STEP:

Use the ACTS prayer method to come before the Father in a time of prayer-

A (Adoration)- Jesus, you are the best part of my life...

C (Confession)- I confess that I live for an audience...

T (Thanksgiving)- Thank you for not giving up on me...

S (Supplication- Say what you need)- I want to be bold and courageous....