How to Conclude a Bible Book Study There is a sweetness in studying a book of the Bible together as a congregation. The message is used by the Holy Spirit to do various kinds of spiritual work in us individually and collectively. Together we are built...
“Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another… Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God.” -1 Peter 5:5,7 Everyone wants to be humble, but no one wants to be humbled. To be humble can imply that we humbled ourselves, which makes us feel good. We love...
The local, on-the-ground, up-close-and-personal nature of the Christian congregation is where the action is. The New Testament epistles affirm that reality and give instructions for this kind of life together. I’ll admit that I’m wired to love being at home, with my home church, and in...
As the vacation season begins for many people, a new ministry season kicks off for Grace Community Church. This is a great time to call ourselves to prayer for the summer opportunities we have for evangelism, discipleship, and care for one another. 1 Peter 4:7 says,...
When the Apostle Peter tells us to have the same way of thinking about suffering that Christ had (1 Peter 4:1), he means for us to take on and share Christ’s attitude. Peter is thinking about something much deeper than “an interesting perspective” or “one...
When the Apostle Peter discusses the honorable response to suffering for the sake of righteousness, he says, "...
“Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” 1 Peter 3:8 The history of the Christian Church is filled with schisms, and Christian congregations have often experienced division. This is evidence that the sanctifying work of the...
In sermons, seminars, and small group studies I have taught a lot on marriage over the years. This week, as I studied the passage addressing wives and husbands in 1 Peter 3, I noticed a change in my thinking and some new thoughts on preaching on...
Maybe you have heard, or even used the words, “When all else fails, pray.” That statement reflects some bad theology related to God’s grace, the nature of the Christian life, and the place of prayer in our lives. But the worst part of that all too...
“But what about…?” is a question we ask when a general rule is put before us. Asking that question can be a way of clarifying the rule to obey it better. 1 Peter 2:12-17 tells us to be subject to the government. That is the rule. Christians...
