Chosen for Eternity: Embracing Our Kingdom Identity
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound truth of being part of God's eternal kingdom, as highlighted in 1 Peter 1. It's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget the incredible privilege of being chosen by God. This passage reminds us that we are part of something far greater than ourselves, a kingdom that transcends time and space. Peter's letter, written to a persecuted church, serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement, reminding us of our identity as God's chosen people, living as foreigners in this world.
Peter emphasizes the role of the Holy Trinity in our salvation: God the Father knew and chose us, the Spirit makes us holy, and we are cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. This triune work is a source of immense grace and peace, even amidst trials. The early Christians faced severe persecution, yet Peter's words remind them—and us—that our faith is more precious than gold, refined through trials to bring glory to God.
The message also challenges us to examine our lives. Are we living as sheep, grateful for the Shepherd's guidance, or as pigs, returning to the mud of sin? True salvation transforms us, leading us to desire holiness and obedience. Sanctification is a lifelong journey, a miracle of transformation that requires our cooperation with the Holy Spirit.
In the face of life's challenges, we are called to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Just as Peter walked on water when focused on Christ, we too can overcome life's storms by maintaining our focus on Him. The trials we face are not without purpose; they refine us and prepare us for the ultimate reward—the salvation of our souls.
Key Takeaways:
- The Privilege of Being Chosen: As believers, we are part of an eternal kingdom, chosen by God Himself. This identity should fill us with gratitude and purpose, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. Our trials are temporary, but our place in God's kingdom is eternal. [07:24]
- The Role of the Trinity in Salvation: Our salvation is a collaborative work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Father chose us, the Son cleansed us, and the Spirit sanctifies us. This divine partnership provides us with grace and peace, even in the midst of life's challenges. [10:16]
- Living as Foreigners: Like the early Christians, we are foreigners in this world, called to live differently. Our faith may lead to persecution or misunderstanding, but it also sets us apart as God's chosen people, destined for a greater purpose. [11:58]
- The Process of Sanctification: Salvation is a moment, but sanctification is a lifetime journey. It requires our active participation and cooperation with the Holy Spirit, who works in us to make us holy. This process refines us, much like gold is refined by fire. [40:57]
- Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus: In the midst of life's storms, our focus must remain on Jesus. Like Peter, when we fix our eyes on Him, we can walk on water, overcoming the challenges that threaten to overwhelm us. Our faith is strengthened as we trust in His promises. [24:25]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[06:10] - The Inspiration of Daily Bible Reading
[07:24] - The Privilege of Being Part of God's Kingdom
[08:37] - Introduction to 1 Peter 1
[10:16] - The Role of the Trinity in Salvation
[11:58] - Living as Foreigners and Pilgrims
[14:15] - The Reality of Persecution
[16:14] - Theological Anchors in Times of Trouble
[18:22] - The Comfort of Being Known by God
[20:39] - Empathy and Encouragement
[22:41] - Refocusing on God Amidst Struggles
[24:25] - Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus
[26:07] - God as Our Good Father
[28:23] - The Comfort of God's Omniscience
[31:17] - The Assurance of Being Chosen
[32:20] - The Cleansing Power of Jesus' Blood
[33:43] - The Desire for Obedience
[35:46] - The Sheep and the Pig Analogy
[38:13] - The Call to Righteousness
[40:57] - The Refining Fire of Trials
[43:30] - The Process of Sanctification
[45:30] - The Reward of Endurance
[47:30] - Encouragement to Stay the Course
[48:55] - The Impact of Small Decisions
[51:07] - The Legacy of Faithful Obedience
[51:56] - Closing and Call to Perseverance
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- 1 Peter 1:1-2
- Hebrews 12:22-23
- Matthew 14:30
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#### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Peter 1:1-2, what roles do the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit play in our salvation? How does this reflect the concept of the Trinity? [10:16]
2. In the sermon, how does Peter describe the early Christians' status in the world, and what does this imply about their identity? [11:58]
3. What analogy does the pastor use to describe the difference between those who are truly transformed by salvation and those who are not? [35:46]
4. How does the story of Peter walking on water illustrate the importance of keeping our focus on Jesus? [24:25]
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#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to be "chosen" by God, and how should this influence a believer's sense of identity and purpose? [31:17]
2. How does the concept of living as "foreigners" or "pilgrims" in this world affect the way Christians should view their trials and challenges? [11:58]
3. In what ways does the process of sanctification differ from the moment of salvation, and why is it important for believers to understand this distinction? [39:31]
4. How can the story of Peter walking on water serve as a metaphor for the Christian life, particularly in times of trial and doubt? [24:25]
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#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily life: Are there areas where you might be forgetting the privilege of being part of God's eternal kingdom? How can you remind yourself of this truth regularly? [07:24]
2. The sermon challenges us to live as "foreigners" in this world. What practical steps can you take to live differently in a way that reflects your identity as God's chosen people? [11:58]
3. Consider the analogy of the sheep and the pig. In what ways do you find yourself returning to old habits or "mud"? What steps can you take to stay close to the Shepherd? [35:46]
4. How can you actively participate in the process of sanctification in your life? Are there specific areas where you need to cooperate more with the Holy Spirit? [39:31]
5. Identify a current challenge or "storm" in your life. How can you shift your focus back to Jesus, and what practical actions can you take to maintain that focus? [24:25]
6. The sermon mentions the refining fire of trials. Can you identify a recent trial that has refined your faith? How did it prepare you for future challenges? [40:57]
7. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude for the role of the Trinity in your salvation? Are there specific practices or prayers that could help you in this area? [10:16]
Devotional
Day 1: The Privilege of Being Chosen
Being chosen by God is a profound privilege that transcends the mundane aspects of daily life. As believers, we are part of an eternal kingdom, a reality that should fill us with gratitude and purpose. This identity as God's chosen people reminds us that our struggles are temporary, but our place in His kingdom is eternal. In 1 Peter 1, the early Christians, despite facing persecution, are encouraged to remember their divine selection and the hope it brings. This perspective helps us navigate life's challenges with a sense of belonging and assurance. [07:24]
"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." (1 Peter 2:9, ESV)
Reflection: How does knowing you are chosen by God change the way you view your current struggles and challenges?
Day 2: The Role of the Trinity in Salvation
Salvation is a collaborative work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God the Father chose us, the Son cleansed us with His blood, and the Spirit sanctifies us. This divine partnership provides us with grace and peace, even amidst life's challenges. Understanding the distinct roles of the Trinity in our salvation deepens our appreciation for the grace we receive and the peace that sustains us. This triune work is a source of immense comfort and strength, reminding us that we are never alone in our journey of faith. [10:16]
"According to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you." (1 Peter 1:2, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you actively acknowledge and appreciate the work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in your daily life?
Day 3: Living as Foreigners
As believers, we are called to live as foreigners in this world, much like the early Christians who faced persecution. Our faith sets us apart, often leading to misunderstanding or opposition. However, this distinct identity is a testament to our greater purpose as God's chosen people. Embracing our role as foreigners encourages us to live differently, with values and priorities that reflect our heavenly citizenship. This perspective helps us navigate the tension between our earthly existence and our eternal destiny. [11:58]
"Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul." (1 Peter 2:11, ESV)
Reflection: What are some specific ways you can live out your identity as a foreigner in this world today?
Day 4: The Process of Sanctification
Sanctification is a lifelong journey that requires our active participation and cooperation with the Holy Spirit. While salvation is a moment, sanctification is a process that refines us, much like gold is refined by fire. This transformation leads us to desire holiness and obedience, aligning our lives with God's will. The trials we face are not without purpose; they are opportunities for growth and refinement, preparing us for the ultimate reward—the salvation of our souls. [40:57]
"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you can actively cooperate with the Holy Spirit in the process of sanctification?
Day 5: Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus
In the midst of life's storms, our focus must remain on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Just as Peter walked on water when he kept his eyes on Christ, we too can overcome challenges by maintaining our focus on Him. Our faith is strengthened as we trust in His promises and rely on His guidance. This perspective empowers us to navigate life's difficulties with confidence, knowing that our ultimate reward is the salvation of our souls. [24:25]
"Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2, ESV)
Reflection: What practical steps can you take today to keep your focus on Jesus amidst the distractions and challenges you face?
Quotes
"You have come to the spirits of the righteous ones in heaven, who have now been made perfect. He says, When you come to salvation, you are coming. You are becoming part of something incredible, something eternal, something amazing, something that should be appreciated, something that should be valued. I want to tell you, we have something that the world doesn't have." [00:08:05] (28 seconds)
"They have found themselves in a place where they were not intended to be. In the New King James, it says that they are pilgrims, pilgrims of the dispersion. And when you look up the definition for those words, pilgrims, the word is, it means sojourners, exiles, or temporary residents. They were living in places that were not home." [00:11:58] (29 seconds)
"This letter is a letter of instruction and direction that He is giving through church leadership. Can I tell you, this is why we gather. This is why. in Hebrews, it also says that we should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together because when we come together, we find greater strength than when we are on our own." [00:14:45] (21 seconds)
"How many have ever known somebody or maybe yourself that through the pressure of persecution, that all of a sudden things get difficult, it can push us off course? It can cause us to begin questioning the foundations of our faith. And Peter is concerned about these people. He's saying, I don't want you to wander from the truth." [00:16:13] (25 seconds)
"Empathy is one of the most powerful words in the English language. To be able to identify with someone in their struggle. You're not on your own. I see your pain, and I want to share that burden with you. I'm so grateful for Nisha's testimony today, because it tells me that in this congregation, there are people who have a heart like Peter." [00:22:00] (26 seconds)
"He steps out of the boat by faith. As long as his eyes are on Jesus, man, he is walking on the waves. He is walking on the trouble. He is overcoming. the power of the storm, as long as his focus is on the Lord. But the Bible says he's in the middle of a storm. There's wind. There's waves. There's trouble. There's violence." [00:23:49] (26 seconds)
"Let me make a statement to you this morning. If you are struggling in the arena of obedience, the issue is not sanctification. It's salvation. See, the saved soul, the person who is washed by the blood wants to obey the Father. Is that true? It is the person who still has not experienced salvation who is struggling to obey. Those who are saved want to do right." [00:33:19] (34 seconds)
"Peter says. Look. I know you guys are being persecuted. But don't worry. Because this is the fire. That refines the gold. The trouble that you're going through. Is the process. Of God making you holy. And new. See everybody wants to be Joseph. When he's in charge of the whole Egyptian kingdom. But not everybody wants to go through the 25 years of trouble." [00:40:57] (30 seconds)
"You have no idea what God has in store for you. One little decision to respond to the gospel, respond to the good news of Christ, crucified and resurrected from the dead. Lord, save me. I'm lost. I'm broken. And I need you. We make that one little move toward God, and we have no idea where that is going to take our lives." [00:49:58] (21 seconds)
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