Hopelessness has a deadly effect on the human soul. Without some kind of future goal, we wither and die. This is what makes the Gospel of Christ the best news imaginable.
Our hope in Christ is not based on wishful thinking or naïve optimism. Gospel hope is anchored in the historical reality of Jesus’ physical resurrection from the dead. It is the confident assurance, expectation, and conviction of God’s ultimate triumph through his Son and our Savior.
This is what 1 Peter is all about—restoring hope to discouraged Christians. In our passage this sermon, Peter teaches us what is required to live each day in light of our hope—our eternal reward and deliverance from exile.
To prepare, please meditate on 1 Peter 1:13-21
Clear-Headed Hope
Life In Exile
November 15, 2020 • Pastor Ben Cross
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Life In Exile
An Addendum
May 2, 2021 • Pastor Ben Cross
In the last Sermon, we finished 1 http://peter...well, almost. This Sermon, Pastor Ben will present “an addendum" by focusing on two important issues Peter only mentions in his closing remarks, likely, because the original readers didn't need further explanation. We do. Peter mentions "the devil" and uses the term "Babylon" to refer to Rome. Both topics span the whole of Scripture, and understanding their significance is helpful in understanding God's word from cover-to-cover. Prayerfully prepare your mind and heart for this message.
Down Is Up
April 25, 2021 • Pastor Ben Cross
This Sermon, Peter concludes his teaching on the believer's life in exile in this world with a loving kiss--really! In 1 Peter 5:6-14, he re-captures the dominant themes of his letter, taking us deeper into the realities behind Christian suffering that should comfort us and give us hope in even the most painful of times.
Under-shepherds of the Chief Shepherd
April 18, 2021 • Pastor Ben Cross
In this Sermon, Pastor Ben will share a report on his recent ministry to missionaries in Kenya, Africa. We will also take a brief look at 1 Peter 5:1-5 and the vital role elders play in the local church, especially in times of crisis and suffering. This passage presents a timely opportunity for us to commission the four new elders our church family recently affirmed. Please join us for this important moment in our church's life.