To live and love as Jesus, is to live as one who has been loved by Jesus, not only so, but as He loved me through the most difficult of circumstances. 

So, with Him in mind, my, may I, no matter the circumstances, loving His way be what I am most eager to do… bringing glory to the Father and Jesus to those I love…

I am to live for God… 1Peter 4

1Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. 2As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. 3For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. 5But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

4:1a Since Jesus suffered in His body, - 1Peter 3:12-18 - arm yourselves with the same attitude, the same perspective, the same resolve - a commitment to love and holiness… taking into consideration of, being mindful of as a manner of thinking and feeling

4:1b Because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin - ceased from sin - suffers as Jesus suffered… (seeing the effect of sin on the lives of others, on this world - we grieve and are DONE!)

• Finished with sin!  It no longer has dominion over “me”!

  • I am no longer under its rule or reign

  • I have a choice to not allow it to master me (1Cor 6:12)

  • Though we/I live in a world that is under sin’s dominion (Eph 2:1-3)

    • This is what it means when it is said that we are “strangers and aliens” or “not of this world” 

  • Neither, do I want to see sin and its consequences in others and so I make it my aim to “do something about it” 

    • By living according to Jesus’ righteousness, I do good things in the sight of men that they may see and ask and receive and glorify God (Matt 5:16; Eph 2:1-10; Col 4:6; 1Peter 3:15)

So now, being loved by God, in view of His mercy, hating sin and its effects, I live my life with a desire to please God, living according to His loving commands...

As I grow in wisdom and experience I see more and more that I need not put myself through the consequences of sin and sinful attitudes as sin only rules (in) me as I permit by (Gal 5:1, 13; James 1:13-15)

• Entertaining or nursing the thoughts of it - indulging my flesh’s desire for it

• Giving into the temptation it offers - doing what my flesh desires

• Suffering the consequences of my actions - sin and its effect on my life and spirit

  • Affliction on life and spirit through my conscience being assailed (guilt, shame, conviction - Ps 119:67,71,75; Ps 51)

  • My relationship with God and others being made ineffective - inhibited - lacking peace, assurance, and confidence (2Pet 1:8-10)

  • Discipline and a call to repentance, receiving correction, instruction (Ps 32:4; 89:31-33; Prov 1:7; 8:33; 15:5,31-33; 20:30; Heb 12:11)

  • Actual repentance - being restored and changing my way

• Discipline of commitment to that new way - truth, new attitude, changed life, fruit

Here is the truth...

• I need no longer be dominated by sin (Ps 119:33) but instead under the influence of the Holy Spirit and the truth of God - me not conquering sin, but God conquering it for me and in me - giving me the ability - the empowerment - to not sin

  • The flesh (and its depravity, or, propensity for sin, to sin) no longer being my nature, my first love, my deepest desire… (Rom 7:5; 8:1-17)

  • But instead, now, my nature having been made new, I am righteous and good as Jesus - His nature and character are in me by His Spirit. (1Cor 1:30; 2Cor 5:17,21; Gal 2:16)

  • So now, the Spirit in me is my life and ambition, my desire and goal (Rom 14:17-19; 2Cor 5:9; Col 1:10)

  • But remembering, that if I do sin, God forgives (Ps 32:3-5; 1John 1:9; 2:1-2)

Though still, the battle rages between the flesh and the Spirit, I do not “have to” succumb to the flesh, instead, I “get to” listen to, follow, and walk in step with, the Spirit under its influence

4:2 “as a result, they (we) do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires - or flesh, but rather for the will of God.” (Gal 5)

• Making decisions according to self - done apart from faith

  • Independent of God’s inworking - of the flesh - or, carnal 

  • This is displeasing to the Lord - even things that seem “respectable”

  • Flesh relates to unaided human effort 

    • Decisions that originate from self or empowered by self that proceeds out of the untouched (unchanged) part of us - what is not transformed by God

    • Prompted or governed by the flesh

But instead a God prompted, God directed life...

• But now, by the Spirit of God in me, for God and His will - that that is what brings me life and true peace, joy, and satisfaction - a new and renewed vision and ambition for life

• This posture sets my eyes above - on Jesus and His desire or my life expressed in His world

7The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8Above all…

• ...love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

  • Love each other deeply/sincerely/commitedly - from the heart

  • Love covers… sin.  Covering sin

• 9Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 

  • Hospitality…

  • Without grumbling???

10Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 

• 11If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. 

• If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, 

...so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.  To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Suffering for Being a Christian

12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18And,

“If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 19So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit - or entrust - themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

In the midst of the suffering that IS this world, I am to entrust myself to God, in Christ, and His sovereign rule

Living and Loving Like Jesus 1Peter 4

To live and love as Jesus, no matter the circumstances, may this be what I am most eager to do… bringing glory to the Father and Jesus to those I love…

I am to live for God… 1Peter 4

1Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same 

attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. 2As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. 3For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. 5But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

4:1a Since Jesus suffered in His body, arm yourselves with the same attitude, the same perspective, the same resolve - a commitment to love and holiness…

• Consideration for

• To be mindful of

• Manner of thinking and feeling

4:1b Because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin - ceased from sin - suffers as Jesus suffered

• Not: will not commit a sin - but, no longer being by nature sin, is no longer, from the soul, stirred by its incitements and seductions - being not your nature

• But: no longer under condemnation for sin

  • Their nature now being righteous (Jesus’ righteousness)

  • In spirit which is indwelled and enlivened by God’s Spirit is in conflict with the flesh’s desire

And…

• Finished with sin!  It no longer has dominion over “me”!

• I need no longer be dominated by sin (Ps 119:33)

  • Not “a voluntary stopping what I was doing before” 

  • But “a pause imposed from without” 

• The flesh no longer being my nature, my first love, my deepest desire… but the Spirit in me being my life and ambition

4:2 “as a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires - or flesh, but rather for the will of God.” (Gal 5)

• Making decisions according to self - done apart from faith

  • Independent of God’s inworking - of the flesh - or, carnal 

  • This is displeasing to the Lord - even things that seem “respectable”

  • Flesh relates to unaided human effort 

    • Decisions that originate from self or empowered by self

    • This proceeds out of the untouched (unchanged) part of us - what is not transformed by God

    • Prompted or governed by the flesh

• But now, by the Spirit of God in me, for God and His will - that that is what brings me life and true peace, joy, and satisfaction - a new and renewed vision and ambition for life

• This posture sets my eyes above - on Jesus 

1 Peter 4:7-11

7The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Suffering for Being a Christian

1Peter 4:12-19

12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18And,

“If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,

what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” a

19So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

In the midst of the suffering that IS this world, I am to entrust myself to God, in Christ, and His sovereign rule

Why so much talk about suffering? John 16; 1Pet 3

Why so much talk about suffering?  Well, “in this world, this life on this earth, you will have trouble…” says Jesus (John 16:33)

Suffer or suffering is mentioned 12 times in this little letter of 1Peter, whereas Paul uses it all of 7 times in all of his writings.  Perhaps it is a matter of the subtle difference in each of their callings.

• Paul, the missionary, church planter, theologian, who was given the task of 

  • Bringing the Gospel to the Gentile world in clear and concise truth.  

  • Working through the Law and translating it and its fulfillment in Christ to grace for the both the Jew and the Gentile

  • Constantly having to elaborate on that truth to instruct and correct the churches among the Gentiles as they worked out their salvation

• Peter was first and foremost a shepherd - by calling and command (John 21; 1Peter 5) and was greatly concerned with the welfare of the sheep and their care - in Jesus, through him and other elders, and their care for one another

This is not an either/or, or an “I’ve got this, you’ve got that”

• It is not that Paul did not care about the sheep, he did, hence the many letters and visits and impassioned prayers to strengthen them, to help them better understand and implement God’s word and will.

and...

• It is not that Peter was not concerned with truth, as he is continually taking the believer back to the ancient text to explain the whats and whys of their faith and experiences.  He is also the one, who later, refers to Paul’s writings and is the first (at least in the biblical text) to refer to them as scripture  (2Peter 3:16)

But, the primary thrust of Peter’s heart and passion was and is the welfare of the heart of each and every believer as the “sojourn” through this world as aliens and strangers longing for their salvation to be fully realized and how they might live in the meantime…

Not only to live, themselves, but to live in such a way as to bring the reality of Jesus’ Life and Lordship in them to bear on their world - and being seen - be prepared to give their reason for their hope…

...not being frightened of anything (1John 4:18), but walking with a joyful hope of God’s faithfulness to His promise (1Peter 1; 2Peter 1; Ps 119)

So Peter, the shepherd, meets the sheep, us, right where we are in the raw experiences of this broken world that is so deeply affected by sin.

Reminding us that we need not be overcome, but that even though we suffer, there is an inexpressible and glorious joy to be had, as we await Jesus’ coming - as we will receive the goal of our faith, the salvation of our souls!  

And in the meantime… live well, by living a life of love; and be on mission - as Jesus’ goodness leaks out of us - prepared to share the reason for the hope you have… 

“I have told you these things so that you may have peace…, ...but take heart!  I have overcome the world”

Peter, I am sure, is remembering these words, that he heard, from the Master’s mouth, and the hearing of these words was in the context of Jesus’ warning of what’s to come…

And the disciples would, believe it or not, still argue with one another…

1Pet 3:8-9

8Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 9Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 

1Peter 3:10-12

“Whoever would love life

and see good days

must keep their tongue from evil

and their lips from deceitful speech.

11They must turn from evil and do good;

they must seek peace and pursue it.

12For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous

and his ears are attentive to their prayer,

but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

1Peter 3:13-18

13Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 15But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 17For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 18For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?

• Good - that is empowered by God through faith - what is upright and honorable

• Titus 2:14 “11For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

• Eph 2:10  10For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

• Matt 5:10 “Blessed are the… Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

1Peter 3:14 “But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed…”

1Pe 2:19 “if anyone endures the pain of unjust suffering because he conscious of God, this is to be commended”

Do not fear what they fear, do not be frightened…

Surprised by your suffering?  Why? 

1Pet 4:12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

In this world, there will be trouble… but do not be overcome, for I have overcome the world

If they persecuted me, why wouldn’t they, you? (Jo 15:20; 2Co 4:9)

Jesus’ goodness was

• Not received

• Not understood 

• Convicted those who would not receive - as the Spirit, the goodness of Christ in us, will convict… 

• And if Jesus, the perfect one was persecuted, how much you, who are of the same flesh? (Eph 2)

  • 16You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. 17This is my command: Love each other.

The World Hates the Disciple

18“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ b If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.

1Pet 3:14 “Do not fear what they fear, do not be frightened of the fear of cause…” or “do not be afraid of the terror they cause” or “the terror this world would bring”

1Peter 3:15 “But set Christ apart as Lord…”

• The only One who ought to be feared is the one who can…

Therefore… 

• Sanctify as Lord “hallowed” (same as “hallowed be your name” Luke 11:2)

  • It is to love Jesus, for sure

  • It is also to revere, to hold Him in reverent awe

  • Truly honor Jesus as God

And, in so, Jesus will be your fear… Philippines 4:4-8

• The object of your reverence and worship

  • Who is sovereign 

  • Who as such, is the peace of your heart

  • The fruit of one, to one, for one, in one, Belonging  to the One who possesses such preeminence and power - Galatians 5:22 “peace”

• “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of…” Prov 1;2

  • Knowledge

  • Wisdom 

And in that, becomes our… 

• Peace 

• Confidence 

  • Rom 8:31-35, 37 “31What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, k neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

  • Rom 8:28-30 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who i have been called according to his purpose. 29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

Live a Life of Love

Eph 5:1-2 “1Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

Gal 5: Dissensions and factions…

Instead be…

1Pet 3:8-9

8Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 9Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 

Like-minded and sympathetic

• One mind - intent and purpose

  • An inner outlook regulating outward behavior

  • Share the same perspective

  • Living in one accord

  • Spirit-produced unity or agreement results from receiving God’s inworkings of faith - persuasions

  • Harmonious - one what are we to be agreed?

    • Sympathy

    • Brotherly 

    • Kindhearted

    • Humble in spirit

  • Knowing God’s mind or thoughts as He reveals it through faith

And… 

• Sympathetic

  • Having compassion for one another

  • Suffering or feeling the like with another - 

  • A fellow-feeling - feeling the same with them, for them - 

  • To commiserate - having compassion for one another

  • Be 

    • Loving

    • Tenderhearted 

    • Courteous 

    • Humble in spirit

Not paying back evil for evil or insult for insult 

But instead, or, on the contrary, giving a blessing

• Speak well of

• To want good for, what is beneficial 

For the one who wants to love life and see good days

• Love - 

  • Take pleasure in and from life and what it has and gives

  • That it would be agreeable

• Life - being, as God has given and all that comes with it - to be present - at peace

To see good days… 

• Pleasant, agreeable, joyful, happy

... he must… 

1Peter 3:10-12

“Whoever would love life

and see good days

must keep their tongue from evil

and their lips from deceitful speech.

11They must turn from evil and do good;

they must seek peace and pursue it.

12For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous

and his ears are attentive to their prayer,

but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” a

(3:10-12 Ps 34:12-16; 3:10 Jms 1:26; 3:10 Rm 3:13; Jms 3:5-8; 3:11 Ps 37:27; 3:11 Lk 12:51; 2Tm 1:2; Heb 12:14; 3Jn 14; 3:10-12 Ps 34:12-16)

• Keep his tongue from evil (wrong or bad; inner malice, foul, rotten which comes from a rotten character “don’t act as they do”)

  • Eph 4:17-18, 22 “You must no longer walk as the gentiles do… put off the old self…”

• Deceit speech - baiting one another 

  • To exploit the naive or undiscerning

  • Especially those already suffering from excessive emotional pain 

1Peter 3:13-18

13Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 15But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 17For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 18For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.

Do good - empowered by God through faith - what is upright and honorable

Seek peace and pursuit it…

• A course of life that promotes harmony

• With a mild and friendly spirit

• To affect others with it

• Bringing peace by being peaceable… 

Integrity, virtue, purity of life, uprightness, walking in the way of Jesus

Keeping our eyes on the prize: Jesus: 1Peter 2; 3

So often, when we read the word, we see the place, the peril, the circumstance, something that speaks to our current difficulties, and we focus right on that. When in fact, what God is attempting to do is draw us to Himself. To Jesus. To live out our life in Christ. In a way that brings glory to Him, and His grace to the world. Let's today, learn to focus on the right thing: Jesus, and how we can live this life in the world in the midst of suffering and difficulty. 

1Peter 2:1-4
“1Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. 2Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, 3now that you have tasted that the Lord is good, 4 ...and come to him.”

1 Peter 2:11-13
“11Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 12Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us… 13Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake…”

1 Peter 2:18-19
“...submit to…” Being “…conscious, or, mindful of God and His will…”

1 Peter 2:21

“...Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in His steps.”

• Philippians 2:5 “have the same attitude as Jesus, who though God…”

• Ephesians 5:1-2 “...be imitators of God, as dearly loved children. And walk in love, or, live a life of love”

Peter gives us a number of contrasting, and even, in this day, controversial relationships… 

• 1 Peter 2:13-17 Citizen vs. government

• 1 Peter 2:18-20 Slave vs. master

  • Jesus’ example of love and life through unjust suffering 

• 1 Peter 3:1-7 Husband vs. wife 

Peter's point is this:
“Life is hard, suffering is inevitable, these relationships are difficult for everyone no matter what side you’re on. So instead of focusing on the problem, remember - or - be mindful of God and His will, and remember - who you are in Christ, the example of Jesus set, the empowering you have to imitate him, and how to do it.”

We tend to focus on the issues at hand, the things that hit us where we are… 

When in fact Peter is trying to get us to focus on God and who we are in and to God in Christ and our affect on those with whom we live and work

• Mindful or conscious of God and His will

• Fixing the eyes of our heart on Him (Hebrews 1; 2; 12)

1 Peter 2:21-25 And Peter brings it right back to Jesus - the author and perfecter of our faith, who came and shows us what living our God’s righteousness - His love - is!! 

• Jesus and His example

  • Jesus suffered too!

  • Do what He did 

 21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

22“He committed no sin,

and no deceit was found in his mouth.” e

23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25For “you were like sheep going astray,” f but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Vs 25 So we have returned to you… The  Shepherd and overseer of your souls - 2:18–20 

• Maker, Savior, creator  - Genesis 1-3; John 1;3; Romans 8; Eph 2 

• “My sheep know my voice and they follow me” - John 10

• Lord and King - 2Peter 1:2; 2:20; 3:18

1 Peter 3:8-12 And now Peter brings us to how we live as Jesus in our context… 

• Our role in bringing Jesus’ way, truth, life, righteousness, kingdom to bear in each of these contexts by how we speak and act toward others - how we treat each other 

3:8-12 8Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 9Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 10For,

“Whoever would love life

and see good days

must keep their tongue from evil

and their lips from deceitful speech.

11They must turn from evil and do good;

they must seek peace and pursue it.

12For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous

and his ears are attentive to their prayer,

but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” 

Being Mindful of God

1Peter 1 3All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, 4and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. 5And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see.

6So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. 7These trials will show that your faith is genuine…. And when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed

Living Godly Lives in a Pagan Society

11Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to... 12Live such good lives among the pagans that...they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

13Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority…it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17Show proper respect to everyone...

...it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God…if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. 21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

22“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

1Peter 2:18-21 “...it is commendable if someone bears up under unjust suffering because they are conscious of God…”

• Brings God’s favor - God’s grace and good-will, loving-kindness and blessing

  • God’s leaning toward and into us giving Himself to us

  • Attends and assists

  • That His grace would not only be bestowed upon us, but seen in our lives

Proverbs 3:32-35 (Ps 138:6; Ja 4:6; 1Pet 5:5)

32For the Lord detests the perverse, but takes the upright into his confidence.  33The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. 34He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.  35The wise inherit honor, but fools get only shame.

• “...because we are conscious or mindful of God…” and His will - there is a joint knowing: God and me, God in me, God for me, God’s will for me, me and God, therefore we are able to endure suffering as part of God’s purposes… (Rom 8:31; Ex 14:13; 2Chron 32:6-8; 2Kings 6:16-17; Ps 118:6; Is 41:8-16; Matt 1:23; Rom 5:1-11; 1Thes 5:18; Ja 1; 1Pe 1; 1John 4:12)

• Now, as humans, made in God’s image, we all… 

  • ...have a conscience that knows what is... (Rom 2:14-15; Gen 42:21-22)

    • good and right

    • right and wrong

  • ...have an innate discernment...

    • All humans, have this ability and capacity

    • But many have “seared” the conscience - their feelings, the ability to discern has been numbed (Eph 4:19; 1Tim 4:2)

  • But, for the believer, our conscience has been made more sensitive, quickened, given life by God’s Spirit (Rom 8:1-16; Gal 5:16-26)

• But now, as God’s children, By the power of that Spirit, we are created in Jesus, to be like Jesus… (John 14:26; Eph 1:13; 4:30; Acts 2:33; Rom 8:23,26-27; Gal 3:14) 

  • Our soul can discern - not just right and wrong - but, what is morally good and bad (1Cor 6:12-20)

    • Prompting us to do good (Matt 5:16; Gal 5:6,22-23; 6:9; 2Thes 3:3; Ja 2:18; 3:13; 1Pet 2:12)

    • Condemning what is bad (Matt 15:19; Gal 5:19-21; Col 3:5)

    • We are empowered to live out our righteousness, Christ’s righteousness in us - bearing the fruit of the Spirit 

      • 1Cor 1:30 “...It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. “

      • 2Cor 5:21 “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

• This righteousness looks like this...

Gal 5:22-23 “...the fruit of the Spirit (the righteousness of Christ in us) is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control.”

So, because we are in Jesus, we are indwelt and empowered by the Spirit of God - we can live as Jesus lived and the Spirit empowers - being mindful of Him...

• Therefore our decisions, our conduct, our words, our attitudes, our treatment of others is a reflection of God in us and our being in and with - or- we are mindful of God

• That God is sovereign and that we are His - our being mindful of this truth enables our responding as God would have us

• We can be confident, in God, that there will be a good outcome (Rom 8:28) 

• And trusting our Father for the good outcome, we can now, regardless of the circumstances, do what is good… 

  • Something that profits others

  • Doing good, as one who does good, and that good generously and for the benefit of others (Phil 2:1-11)

  • To do good, do right, without concern for personal gain

And this brings us directly to Jesus’ example and our imitating Him - how we can AND should then be - not only

• Made in God’s image and therefore able to choose between right and wrong

• But also, filled with the Holy Spirit, empowered to be righteous - Eph 1:13-14

• Able, compelled to be an imitator of Jesus - Eph 5:1-2

• As one NOW created in Christ Jesus - righteous and growing in Righteousness - Eph 2:8-10

I can now, with confidence in who I am in Christ, have the same attitude as Jesus...

• Phil 2:5-7 “...not look only to my own interests, but also to the interests of others…, ...in humility, consider others as better than myself… and  5In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset or attitude as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness

1 Peter 2:21-25 

22“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

1 Peter 2:22 no deceit was found in His mouth (as for me: Ps 119:25-32)

• Was not devious, did not use His being God to His own advantage - 

• No ulterior motive or attempt to get his own - no shenanigans or chicanery or cheating

• But instead, He was honest in all ways, straight forward, pure motives and intentions - remaining true to His person and nature 

25I am laid low in the dust;

preserve my life according to your word.

26I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;

teach me your decrees.

27Cause me to understand the way of your precepts,

that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.

28My soul is weary with sorrow;

strengthen me according to your word.

29Keep me from deceitful ways;

be gracious to me and teach me your law.

30I have chosen the way of faithfulness;

I have set my heart on your laws.

31I hold fast to your statutes, Lord;

do not let me be put to shame.

32I run in the path of your commands,

for you have broadened my understanding.

Being mindful of His Father, confident in His sovereign love, Jesus did not defend Himself, did not avenge, but… 

23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats.

2:23 reviled/insults…

•  to say harsh things (make verbal assaults); to heap abuse; to spew bitter (tasteless) statements, using mean-spirited, insulting words to demoralize (humiliate).

...He did not revile/insult in return

• to return abusive insults; reproach, denigrate; detract from someone's honor (reputation).  Did not humiliate the other

  • Matthew 26:63 But Jesus remained silent. Then the high priest said to Him, "I charge You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God."

  • Matthew 27:12 And when He was accused by the chief priests and elders, He gave no answer.

  • Mark 14:61 But Jesus remained silent and made no reply. Again the high priest questioned Him, "Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?"

  • Mark  15:5 But to Pilate's amazement, Jesus made no further reply.

  • Luke 23:9  Herod questioned Jesus at great length, but He gave no answer.

  • John 19:9 and he went back into the Praetorium. "Where are You from?" he asked. But Jesus gave no answer.

Even to the last moment, Jesus responded with grace toward  those who took His life

• Luke 23:34 ““Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

And toward those with Him 

• Luke 23:43 “Jesus answered him, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’”

And further entrusted Himself to His Father

• Luke 23:46 “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”

2:23 “...Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” (Ps 119: 65-80)

But instead, he entrusted himself

• Put himself in His Father’s hands to do as He would

• Committed himself - to God’s will and purposes to be accomplished 

• Commended himself - God’s view of righteousness and His Father’s vindicating

• Surrendered Himself - trusting His Father’s goodness and good outcome

• To give Himself over to His Father’s power (to vindicate, redeem, make good)

• That Jesus’ submission to His Father was Accomplishing God’s ultimate will

1 Peter 2:24 24“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25For “you were like sheep going astray,” f but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Entrusting ourselves to God’s Sovereign mercy, we now can live as Jesus lived and love as Jesus loved…

Benediction:

Overcome evil with good…

Romans 12:9-21

9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

17Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;

if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.

In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Overcome Evil with Good | 1 Peter 2 & Romans 12

1Peter 1

3All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, 4and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. 5And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see.

6So be truly glad.b There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. 7These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed

Living Godly Lives in a Pagan Society

11Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 12Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

13Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.

18Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. 19For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. 20But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. 21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

22“He committed no sin,

and no deceit was found in his mouth.” e

23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25For “you were like sheep going astray,” f but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

1Peter 2:18-21

• Brings or wins for us God’s favor - God’s grace and good-will, loving-kindness and blessing

  • God’s leaning toward and into us giving Himself to us

  • Attends and assists

  • That His grace would not only be bestowed upon us, but seen in our lives

• Mindful of God and His will - joint knowing: God and me, God’s will for me, therefore we endure suffering as part of God’s purposes...

  • Conscience joins moral and spiritual consciousness - of what is good and right, what is right and wrong

  • An innate discernment

  • All humans, made in God’s divine image have this ability and capacity

  • But many have “seared” the conscience - their feelings, the ability to discern has been numbed

  • But, for the believer, our conscience has been made more sensitive, quicked, given life by God’s Spirit

  • So our soul can discern what is morally good and bad - 

    • prompting us to do 

    • Condemning what is bad

  • Therefore our decisions, our conduct, our words, our attitudes, our treatment of others

  • God sovereign, we are His, our being mindful of this truth enables our responding as God would have us

  • Confident, in God, that there will be a good outcome

• Do what is good… 

  • Something that profits others

  • Who oneself as one who does good generously for the benefit of others

  • To do good, do right 

And this brings us directly to Jesus’ example, and how we should then be - not only

• Made in God’s image and therefore able to choose between right and wrong

• But, filled with the Holy Spirit, empowered to be righteous

• Able, compelled to be an imitator of Jesus 

• Isa 53:7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.

• Phil 2:5-7  5In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature a God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature b of a servant, being made in human likeness

1Pet 2:21-25 

22“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” e

23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25For “you were like sheep going astray,” f but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

2:22 no deceit was found in His mouth

• Was not devious, did not use His being God to His own advantage - 

• No ulterior motive or attempt to get his own - no shenanigans or chicanery or cheating

• But instead, He was honest in all ways, straight forward, pure motives and intentions

23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats.

2:23 reviled/insults…

•  to say harsh things (make verbal assaults); to heap abuse; to spue bitter (tasteless) statements, using mean-spirited, insulting words to demoralize (humiliate).

...He did not revile/insult in return

• to return abusive insults; reproach, denigrate; detract from someone's honor (reputation).  Did not humiliate the other

Even do the last moment, Jesus responded  with grace toward  those who took His life

2:23 “...Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” 

But instead, he entrusted himself

• Put himself in His Father’s hands to do as He would

• Committed himself - God’s will, purposes, accomplished 

• Commended himself - God’s view and vindication

• Surrender - trusting His Father’s goodness and good outcome

• To give over to His Father’s power (to vindicate, redeem, make good)

Matthew 5:44  But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

Luke 6:28  bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you

Accomplishing God’s Ultimate Will

1peter 2:24 24“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25For “you were like sheep going astray,” f but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

• Matthew 26:63 But Jesus remained silent. Then the high priest said to Him, "I charge You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God."

• Matthew 27:12 And when He was accused by the chief priests and elders, He gave no answer.

• Mark 14:61 But Jesus remained silent and made no reply. Again the high priest questioned Him, "Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?"

• Mark  15:5 But to Pilate's amazement, Jesus made no further reply.

• Luke 23:9  Herod questioned Jesus at great length, but He gave no answer.

• John 19:9 and he went back into the Praetorium. "Where are You from?" he asked. But Jesus gave no answer.

Benediction:

Overcome evil with good…

Romans 12:9-21

9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. c Do not be conceited.

17Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” d says the Lord. 20On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;

if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.

In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” e

21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

The Year of the Lord's Favor | Is. 61:1-6, Lk 4:14-21, 2 Cor. 5:14-6:2, Eph. 4:1-7

Isaiah 61:1-6

1The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,

because the Lord has anointed me

to bring good news to the poor;

he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim liberty to the captives,

and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;

2 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor,

and the day of vengeance of our God;

to comfort all who mourn;

3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion—

to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,

the oil of gladness instead of mourning,

the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;

that they may be called oaks of righteousness,

the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.

4 They shall build up the ancient ruins;

they shall raise up the former devastations;

they shall repair the ruined cities,

the devastations of many generations.

5 Strangers shall stand and tend your flocks;

foreigners shall be your plowmen and vinedressers;

6 but you shall be called the priests of the Lord;

they shall speak of you as the ministers of our God;

you shall eat the wealth of the nations,

and in their glory you shall boast.

Luke 4:14-21

14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and a report about him went out through all the surrounding country. 15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.

16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read. 17 And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written,

18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,

because he has anointed me

to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives

and recovering of sight to the blind,

to set at liberty those who are oppressed,

19 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”

20 And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”

2 Corinthians 5:14-6:2

14 For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; 15 and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.

16 From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Chapter 6

Working together with him, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For he says,

“In a favorable time I listened to you,

and in a day of salvation I have helped you.”

Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

Ephesians 4:1-7

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7 But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift.

1 Peter 2: For the Lord's Sake - Free Men

Keeping our eyes on the prize, our heart’s devotion to the right King… 1Peter 2:13-17

13Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.

Reading this text incorrectly, put our focus on the wrong thing. We are then distracted from the greater by the lesser, from the giver to what or who we consider to be the taker. 

Who is that Giver? God, our Father, the sovereign King, of whom we are slaves...

That Giver of rights and liberties, freedom through mercy and grace, is God our Father, through the life and sacrifice of Jesus.  We should revel in that freedom, in those liberties, to live as children of God without fear of man.  But, let us understand that the freedom we have in Christ must be governed, and that governing is by agape love. 

What is agape?  It is to prefer another, to love them by choice, being benevolent toward them wanting, being committed to their best, their blessing. (1Cor 13)

As God has chosen us by his preference and desires for us our, His, very best, having received His best, He calls us then to love others in the same way. How we have been loved and shown mercy, He calls us, as His slaves - as we are now obligated - He commands us, to love the same way. 

This is not a commandment that we cannot obey. But in fact, a commandment that our character has been designed to obey. 1Peter 1:1-2

“To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout… ...chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood.  Grace and peace be yours in abundance.”

We have been saved, to obedience, to Jesus. By his Spirit. And that obedience is a reciprocal expression of the love we have been loved by. 

So that obligation mentioned above is not a begrudging obligation, but a wonderful privileged imitation and following the one who loved us and loves as well. And then gives us the privilege to live and love just as well.

Where do we go from here?

Laying a foundation of righteousness: of liberty and governance: living as free people: what does that mean?

What is righteousness? 

It is to live according to the rightness of God, to express the character of God, to reflect His nature. It is to live like Jesus, in the freedom, the power, the Spirit gives us, and to do so with mercy, grace, joy, love - we have received, now, by God, through us, extended to others.  It is Jesus’ life in us, lived through us, by us, in communion with His Spirit, by His truth. 

So, let us understand: Righteousness is not a standard we live up to you, it is a nature we express. The nature of Jesus in us, by his Holy Spirit, according to his truth, has given to us by God, His indwelling, empowering Spirit, alive in us.

So as we dig into this text, it is through that lens that we must view it…

Freedom and liberty without a sense of responsibility is a recipe for anarchy in self-rule and a culture of “do not do to others what you would not have them do to you”. 

As God’s slave, live as free people… 

Freedom and liberty with a sense of responsibility for others is an exercise of agape which grows out of mercy. (Matt 5; Luke 6; Romans 12)

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

25On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

26“What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”

27He answered, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ d ”

28“You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”

29But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”

30In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35The next day he took out two denarii e and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’

36“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”

37The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”

Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”

The point of mercy is that it is given to someone who deserves something bad return for what they have done… 

Do not do to others what you would not have them do to you… permissive passivity and self-preservation

• Levite and priest did the least that they could do

  • Got what he had coming to Him

  • Should not have been there, alone, to begin with

  • “I cannot render myself unclean” - going to Temple worship would have been risked (see Jesus healing on the Sabbath) 

  • “I must get where I am going” a late man is an irresponsible man

At least they did not…

• Add to his suffering 

  • Kicking him while he was down

  • Mocking his stupidity and irresponsibility 

  • Rub salt into his wounds

  • Take anything else from him 

  • Cause him to feel guilty for…

    • Imposing himself and his plight upon them 

    • Rendering them unclean

    • Keeping them from being on time; making them late - there are “righteous” duties to perform

    • Inconveniencing them 

    • Cost them… use your imagination

  • Imagine the weight of guilt and shame they could have mounted on him if they had stopped to help - by not doing anything for him, they didn’t risk a mounting set of problems for themselves or the man

Jesus calls us “to do” for the “least of these”

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you… obligatory mercy actively expressed in and with apape and a servant’s heart - preservation of or care for others

We tend to see this as an example of how to behave, how to act, how to be moral.

When in fact, it is a depiction of the Messiah. Who sees us in our plight, our sin, when He could walk past and leave us in our brokenness, but, He does not, instead, He stops and ministers, expressing agape and mercy.

It is this mercy we are implored to keep in view, to imitate, to bring to bear… 

Seeing us in our sinfulness, our rebellion, I disregard for our own eternal health and welfare, our penchant for going our own way as we understand the way, our irresponsibility, and accompanying sin and its obvious consequences… what we have done and keep doing to ourselves and each other… 

...and yet…

...He does not shake his head, or click his tongue, or see us and walk by with a heavy sigh, a shaking head or wag of a finger in disgust and leave us, perhaps, deservedly, in our often self-induced misery.  

But instead, he stops in spite of us, even though we are responsible for our own demise, our own condition, our own need.  He stops despite our having rebelled against Him, the way of His wisdom, instead going our own way, knowingly, on a path of destruction, peril, and danger…

He stops, and stoops, and meets us in our need.  He extends mercy and grace and provision - a refuge - in the midst of my foolishness - He stopped, He stops, to meet and minister and this, at His own expense.

This story is to show us His mercy, His love, His care and consideration - regardless of why we are where we are.  Not calling down judgment and condemnation, but putting salve on the wounds inflicted by our own willful way and pays for our place of refuge and healing and promises to come back and pay some more.

Now, he calls us to do the same. Not anything he was unwilling to do, but exactly he did. “As a father his mercy and merciful, now you be merciful.“

This is the table to which we come today. That in spite of us, He invites us to join Him in the feast.  This, even as we are so often spiteful and in rebellious opposition to Him and His way.  In His mercy, He does not hold that against us, He does not withhold mercy, He does not withhold grace - but ministers and serves, 

...and instead of condemnation, He offers Himself for us, and now, what He is asking us to do in response to His agape by mercy and having received mercy, this mercy now obligates us to do as He has done for us - to show that we are truly children of God. the blessing comes from the doing! Amen? THAT’S when other see the AGAPE, see Christ, in us and through us! That’s the Kingdom. Matthew 5; Luke 6; Romans 12.

We are free!  We do have liberties, we do have rights; we are free to be righteous, we are free to be holy, we have the right to become children of God (John one): and with that right - through Jesus - to be a child of God (John 1) we, and only we, who are children of God, can imitate him (Ephesians 5:1-2) and bring to bear God’s mercy to a sinful rebellious people, as His mercy was showered on this sinful man, as I have received mercy, may I now be merciful.

• Forgiveness 

The goal cannot be “my rights and freedoms”
What is Christian freedom?  Before I came to Christ I was a prisoner, in chains, kept in captivity, depraved, unable to free myself - I could only be what I was - sin and a sinner separated from God.  I might be able to do good, but I could not be goo, i might be able to do right, even be right, but not be righteous, acceptable 

Though a slave, I am free...

In Christ I am now free.  Free to be holy, righteous, good, I can choose rightly the right path, an acceptable approved way

• Free to be

  • Righteous

  • Holy 

  • Purveyors of agape 

• I am free from 

  • From captivity of the enemy

  • The penalty of sin

  • Death and eternal condemnation 

• I have the privilege of 

  • Responsibility for the effectiveness of my testimony

  • Responsibility for the health and welfare of my brother 

How is my liberty governed? Consideration of or for - or - agape: being loved as God loved us, me - (a) preferred choice both in choosing and in benevolent care and welfare

• God and His honor and pleasure 

  • Live and die for the Lord

• Others’ welfare - Romans 12

For whose sake? 

Do not use your freedom as a cover up for evil

• Brings disrepute to God’s name “...for the Lord’s sake…” 

• To do what you want or feel you have the “right to do” - Galatians 5:13

• If your freedom harms another

• If your freedom causes another to stumble

Teaching Notes: 1 Peter 2: 13-25

John 10:14-18; 25-30

14“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. 17The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. 18No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”

The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, 26but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. 27My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 30I and the Father are one.”

Do I believe that God is sovereign? That He is my Lord? In His Lordship, do I respect and submit to his sovereignty?

Do I believe this to be so?

Have a truly trusted and entrusted myself to God and the Lordship of Jesus?

Do I believe that he will finish the work that He’s begun in me?

Do I believe that he “...works all things out for the good of those who love him and have been called according to his purposes”? (Rom 8)

Do I believe God is wise? Do I believe that God is wise in His loving and caring? Do I believe his intentions for his children are good? Am I one of His children?

Do I believe God‘s word is just that, His word?  Inerrant and true?

Do I trust God‘s word to be true in regard to His love for me, His intentions for me, His eternal purpose for me, His ways and manner, His ability and commitment His promise to get me to eternity?

Do I believe that God’s ways are higher than mine? (Isa 55) Do I believe that God‘s wisdom is higher than man’s wisdom? (Prov 8; Ps 104; 136; 1Cor 1-2; Col 2) Do I believe God “so loved the world“? (John 3:16)

Do I believe His word is the expression of his wisdom, his ways, his intentions, his will, and his loving it and loving expression on behalf of, and for his glory, and the welfare of his children, and the expression of his kingdom? (John 1)

If I said yes to any and all of these, then let my heart be open to what His word has to say today - even, or especially, If it is opposed to my own thinking and philosophy, way and ways.

May we trust Him and His love and wisdom enough to obey Him… today

1Pet 2:11,13-17 “... submit to…” 

11Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles… (even though this may not be your home, respect the authority under which you currently and temporarily reside as an example to others of how we live entrusted to our King as His representatives) 13Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.

“...submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake…”

• To submit is to: Place (one’s self) under God's arrangement; submitting to the Lord; Obey, be subject

“For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence…”

The establishment of government is an earthly expression of a kingdom truth: we are to be ruled 

• Submission to authority

• Trust and faith in God and His sovereignty 

• Discernment in regard to whom I entrust myself 

• Ultimately, submitting to God’s rule, which He extends through the hands of those He has established to govern. 

• Refusal to submit is your telling God they He is wrong, and that He is not truly sovereign 

Romans 13:1-7 Submission to Governing Authorities

1Let everyone better subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

6This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Perhaps we have had our eye on the wrong subject… it ought not be the government, but the Shepherd of my soul 

Seeing, knowing the difference of my sojourning here on earth and my true citizenship in heaven and who, or Who, my Lord and ruler is - my true protector and provider - Jesus

So it is as if Peter is making a point of emphasis as a challenge to us all… that IF this is true of a slave, how much more we who are “free”?

2:16 “slaves…” (1Cor 7:21-24; Eph 6:5-9; Phm 1:8-21; 1Tim 6:1-2; Tit 2:9-10; Col 3:22-25) 

• Submit: to one’s control

22Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving…

Titus 2:10b “so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive”

Why do we remain here on earth, what is the purpose?  

• Ambassadorship and it’s privilege

• Develop in us a longing in us for heavenly, kingdom, eternal things  

  • Gen 2:18-20 Go back to Adam and the naming of the animals - dissatisfaction for what is, to make space for what will be 

• Choose the “I love you, too”

  • 1John 4:10, 19 - For “we love BECAUSE He loves is first”. And that by… 

    • Choice, preference, and calling 

    • Making us the object of His affection and attention

    • Care and provision 

  • He desires for us, in this place of temptation and titillation, to say back to Him “I love you, too”. And that by…

    • Choice, preference and calling - agape 

    • Trusting him and His word enough to obey - John 14:21

    • Making Him the object us our affection and attention - Lord

    • Security and hope - refuge 

• Therefore our love for God, in Christ, by His Spirit is in response to His mercy (Rom 12:1) and “I love you, too”

“Live as free, but do not use your freedom as a coverup for evil” (also see Gal 5)

1Pet 2:21-25 suffering for the believer, the child of God, begins with their longing as an alien and stranger for their true home-land and continues through living under the effect of sin, grieving sin’s destruction in the lives around them (1Pet 1:1; 2:11)

21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.  22“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” 23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

“...the shepherd of our souls.”

• Return: to turn one’s self to… 

Of this Shepherd we can know, be confident, place ourselves as to trust His eternal care and entrust ourselves to that care... 

Although I may be subject to the authorities here, it is to the Good Shepherd I entrust my eternal self - and I show the truth of this faith by trusting His word, being subject to authority that He Himself has established to accomplish His will

And our willingness to honor these authorities is a proof of our trust in our sovereign Father and His gentle and sure care

Phil 1:6 “6being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

  X John 10:25-30 my sheep know my voice,  no one can snatch away

John 10

14“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15just as the Father knows me and I know the Father… 27My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all c ; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 30I and the Father are one.”

Jesus Prays for All Believers

John 17:20-26

20“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.

24“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.

25“Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. 26I have made you e known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”

• Psalm 23:1, 4,6

• Isaiah 43:13 

• Isa 40