The Difference God Makes

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The Difference God Makes

1 Peter 2:9-10

July 24, 2022 • Rev. Jeremy A. McKeen • 1 Peter 2:9–10

There is so much talk today around the subjects of identity and purpose. Who am I and what am I here for? Where do we get our sense of self and sense of call from? In our culture of identity confusion, how do we go about identity formation? And what difference does God make in all this? As we continue our study of 1 Peter, we run right into the subject of our identity and purpose as the church. Our passage this week will help us to consider how the grace and calling of God shapes the way we think about our identity and purpose in life.

More from How to Follow Jesus When It's Hard

God's Grace in the Valley

February 19, 2023 • Rev. Jeremy A. McKeen • 1 Peter 5:6–14

One of the images of suffering that we’re given in the Bible is “going through the valley.” In the valley it’s easy to lose heart and lose our way. In the valley it’s easy to feel abandoned by God. In the valley it’s easy to feel angry at God and all alone. Peter knows this, and like a faithful pastor, he counsels us and guides us in a handful of ways to experience God’s grace as we go through the valleys of life. Join us for our final message in our 1 Peter study, “God’s Grace in the Valley."

Learning to Lead Like Jesus

February 12, 2023 • Rev. Jeremy A. McKeen • 1 Peter 5:1–5

There is no shortage of books, podcasts, and other resources available on the subject of effective leadership. It can be a bit daunting knowing where to turn and who to listen to when there are so many differing opinions and strategies. Thankfully, we can always turn to Jesus. As we near the end of our 1 Peter study, Peter draws upon the shepherding heart of Jesus and teaches us some key qualities that makes Jesus’ leadership so effective. Join us as we learn to lead like Jesus.

Guidelines for Shame Resilience

February 5, 2023 • Rev. Jeremy A. McKeen • 1 Peter 4:12–19

It can be easy when you’re criticized for following Jesus to feel social shame, to feel discouraged and begin to retreat. What do we do when our faith is mocked by others and we’re socially rejected because of it? Peter knows that in these moments, too often Christians can live with a defeated victim mentality and begin to lose heart. Join us as we consider some key guidelines for shame resilience and how to lean into these moments with courageous joy.