Embracing Hope and Victory in Christ

Devotional

Day 1: Suffering as a Testimony of Hope

In the Christian journey, suffering is not just a possibility but an expectation. This suffering, however, is not without purpose. It serves as a platform to demonstrate the hope and strength found in Jesus Christ. When believers face adversity, their response can be a powerful testimony to others, pointing them to the source of their joy and resilience. This is an opportunity to showcase the transformative power of Christ in our lives, as we are called to be ready to share the hope within us. By embracing suffering as a Christian witness, we align ourselves with the early Christians who faced persecution yet remained steadfast in their faith. [41:12]

1 Peter 4:12-13 (ESV): "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed."

Reflection: Think of a recent challenge you faced. How can you use that experience to share the hope you have in Christ with someone who may be struggling?

Day 2: The Great Exchange of the Gospel

At the heart of the gospel is the profound truth that Jesus, the righteous, suffered for the unrighteous to bring us to God. This "great exchange" is the foundation of our faith, reminding us that we don't earn our way to God; rather, Jesus brings us to Him. This message is not just a historical fact but a present reality that empowers us to live boldly and share the good news with others. Understanding this core message of the gospel helps us to appreciate the depth of God's love and the sacrifice of Jesus, which calls us to live in gratitude and obedience. [46:04]

2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV): "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

Reflection: Reflect on the "great exchange" in your own life. How does knowing that Jesus took your place change the way you view your relationship with God today?

Day 3: Baptism as a Symbol of Inner Transformation

Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change, symbolizing our union with Christ in His death and resurrection. It is not the act itself that saves but the faith in Jesus that regenerates and renews us. This understanding of baptism helps us to see it as a public declaration of our faith and commitment to follow Christ. It is a powerful symbol of the new life we have in Him, reminding us of the transformative power of His love and grace. As we reflect on our own baptism or consider taking this step, we are encouraged to examine the inward change that faith in Christ has brought about in our lives. [51:18]

Romans 6:3-4 (ESV): "Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life."

Reflection: If you have been baptized, reflect on how your life has changed since then. If you have not, what does baptism mean to you, and how might it symbolize your faith journey?

Day 4: Proclaiming Christ's Victory

Jesus' victory over sin and death is a message of hope for all, including those who doubted. As believers, we are entrusted with this message, called to proclaim the good news of Christ's triumph to a world in need of hope. This victory is not just a past event but a present reality that empowers us to live boldly and share the gospel with others. By proclaiming Christ's victory, we participate in His mission and invite others to experience the transformative power of His love. This call to proclamation challenges us to be bold in our faith and to share the hope we have in Christ with those around us. [55:52]

Colossians 2:14-15 (ESV): "By canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him."

Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about the victory of Christ? How can you share this message of hope with them this week?

Day 5: Submitting to Christ's Supreme Authority

Jesus' subjugation over all powers and authorities affirms His lordship and victory. This truth challenges us to examine whether we have truly submitted to His authority in our lives, recognizing Him as our personal Lord and Savior. As we reflect on Christ's supreme authority, we are invited to surrender every area of our lives to Him, trusting in His wisdom and guidance. This submission is not a one-time event but a daily commitment to follow Him and live according to His will. By acknowledging Christ's authority, we align ourselves with His mission and purpose, experiencing the fullness of life that He offers. [01:02:04]

Ephesians 1:20-22 (ESV): "That he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?

Sermon Summary

In today's gathering, we delved into 1 Peter 3, exploring the profound message of Christ's victory and its implications for our lives. As we prepare for the Special Friends Prom, a cherished event celebrating individuals with disabilities, we are reminded of the church's role in embracing and uplifting those often marginalized. This aligns with Peter's message to first-century Christians, who faced persecution for their faith. Peter's words serve to strengthen and encourage believers to live faithfully, even when cultural convictions clash with biblical truths.

We discussed the inevitability of suffering for our faith, emphasizing that while universal suffering affects all due to a sin-fractured world, Christians should expect additional challenges for their beliefs. This suffering, however, is an opportunity to demonstrate the hope within us, a hope rooted in Jesus. We are called to be ready to share this hope, attributing our strength and joy to Christ's transformative power in our lives.

Peter's victory speech in 1 Peter 3:18-22 is a powerful declaration of Jesus' triumph over sin and death. It highlights the gospel's core message: Jesus, the righteous, suffered for the unrighteous to bring us to God. This victory is not just a historical event but a present reality that empowers us to live boldly and share the good news with others. The passage also touches on the misunderstood concept of baptism, clarifying that it symbolizes the inward change brought by faith in Christ, not the act itself that saves.

Finally, we are reminded of Christ's ultimate authority over all creation. His victory is complete, and He reigns supreme, inviting us to participate in His mission. As we reflect on these truths, we are urged to examine our relationship with God, ensuring it is grounded in faith in Jesus. For those who have not yet made this commitment, the invitation is open to surrender to Christ and experience the transformative power of His love.

Key Takeaways

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2. The Gospel's Core Message: At the heart of the gospel is the profound truth that Jesus, the righteous, suffered for the unrighteous to bring us to God. This "great exchange" is the foundation of our faith, reminding us that we don't earn our way to God; rather, Jesus brings us to Him.

3. Baptism as a Symbol of Inner Transformation: Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change, symbolizing our union with Christ in His death and resurrection. It is not the act that saves but the faith in Jesus that regenerates and renews us.

4. Christ's Proclamation of Victory: Jesus' victory over sin and death is a message of hope for all, including those who doubted. As believers, we are entrusted with this message, called to proclaim the good news of Christ's triumph to a world in need of hope.

5. Christ's Supreme Authority: Jesus' subjugation over all powers and authorities affirms His lordship and victory. This truth challenges us to examine whether we have truly submitted to His authority in our lives, recognizing Him as our personal Lord and Savior.

** [41:12]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - Introduction to 1 Peter 3
[02:30] - Special Friends Prom Announcement
[05:15] - Embracing the Disability Ministry
[08:00] - Understanding Suffering for Faith
[12:30] - Being Prepared to Share Our Hope
[16:45] - The Victory Speech of 1 Peter 3
[20:00] - The Gospel's Core Message
[25:30] - Baptism as a Symbol
[30:00] - Christ's Proclamation of Victory
[35:00] - Christ's Supreme Authority
[40:00] - Invitation to Salvation
[45:00] - Call to Baptism
[50:00] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
[55:00] - Final Appeal and Dismissal

Bible Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- 1 Peter 3:18-22

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Observation Questions:

What does 1 Peter 3:18 say about the purpose of Christ's suffering? How does this verse summarize the gospel message? [41:12]
In the sermon, how does the pastor describe the role of suffering in a Christian's life? What are some examples given of how suffering can be an opportunity for witness? [41:12]
How does the sermon explain the concept of baptism as mentioned in 1 Peter 3:21? What is the significance of baptism according to the pastor? [51:18]
What does the pastor say about Christ's authority over all creation as described in 1 Peter 3:22? How is this authority demonstrated? [01:02:04]

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Interpretation Questions:

How does the "great exchange" described in 1 Peter 3:18 challenge common misconceptions about earning salvation? What does this mean for someone who feels they need to "clean up" before coming to God? [41:12]
The pastor mentions that suffering for faith is expected for Christians. How might this perspective change the way believers view their own struggles and challenges? [41:12]
In what ways does the sermon suggest that baptism is a symbol rather than a means of salvation? How does this understanding affect the way one views their own baptism or the baptism of others? [51:18]
How does recognizing Christ's supreme authority, as discussed in the sermon, influence a believer's daily life and decisions? [01:02:04]

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Application Questions:

Reflect on a time when you faced suffering or challenges because of your faith. How did you respond, and what might you do differently now, knowing that suffering can be a witness to others? [41:12]
The sermon emphasizes being ready to share the hope within us. Identify a specific situation where you can share your faith this week. What steps will you take to prepare for this opportunity? [41:12]
Consider your understanding of baptism. If you have been baptized, how does the sermon’s explanation of baptism as a symbol of inner transformation resonate with your experience? If you haven’t been baptized, what steps might you take to explore this further? [51:18]
The pastor speaks about Christ's victory over sin and death. How does this victory impact your view of personal struggles or failures? What practical steps can you take to live in the reality of this victory? [55:52]
Reflect on the idea of Christ's supreme authority in your life. Are there areas where you struggle to submit to His lordship? What changes can you make to align more closely with His authority? [01:02:04]
The sermon invites individuals to examine their relationship with God. How would you describe your current relationship with God, and what steps can you take to deepen it? [01:05:01]
The pastor makes a call to action for those who need to be baptized or saved. If you feel called to respond, what is holding you back, and how can you overcome these barriers? [55:52]

Sermon Clips

All right. Good morning. Good to see all of you here this morning and welcome to worship at Prestonwood to those who are tuning in online as well as those who are here in the room. If we've never been formally introduced, my name is Connor Bales and it's my joy to serve as the pastor here at the North Campus of our church. And we are delighted to have you worshiping with us this morning. If you brought your copy of God's Word, would you grab that and turn with us to 1 Peter chapter 3. 1 Peter chapter 3. As you're turning there now, I'm going to remind you we are just two weeks away from what is no doubt one of my favorite ministry events of the year. And that is Special Friends Prom. [00:30:24] (37 seconds)

And I am so excited to be able to celebrate so many of our special friends. Mary and I are just returning this last week from a wonderful ministry event with Johnny and friends celebrating all that God is doing in bringing dignity to those who are so often marginalized from the disability community around the world. And we got to hear testimony after testimony of how the church is being equipped to step into this space and to serve those who are so often overlooked. And before I get started in the message this morning, it just made me want to press pause and say thank you. I am so grateful to God for you, church, and the way that our church has just embraced our disability ministry. And you guys are moving the needle in ways that will matter in eternity. [00:31:01] (52 seconds)

Now, we are continuing this conversation in 1 Peter. And we know the Apostle is writing to first century Christians persecuted for their faith because they are living in a context and within a culture that often holds to convictions that run in contradiction to what it is that as followers of Jesus we believe. And so Peter is writing to strengthen the church and remind them of the calling to live out faithfully according to the ordering of God. And in our sermons over the last several Sundays, most especially last Sunday in particular, we have learned several things that are incumbent upon us for living out our convictions as men and women of faith. [00:34:01] (46 seconds)

It could cost us relationally, financially, socially, even within our families. And so we understand that suffering is to be expected for the Christ follower. The second thing that we have learned is that Christians are to always be prepared, ready to give a defense or to make a reason for the hope that is within us. So in other words, when suffering shows up, when difficulty ensues and people then ask you, how is it that you're able to maintain faith? How is it that you're still able to smile? Why is it that you choose to do this with your resources or to give that with your time? You and I are in a position as followers of Jesus to be able to give a defense for the hope that we have because people will witness our hope and know there is something different about us. And that difference is the Jesus that exists within us. [00:35:31] (53 seconds)

And so when someone says, what's the reason for the hope that is within you? It's 1 Peter 3 .18. It's this gospel explanation. It's this gospel summary. It's the clarity of this message, Jesus for me. Verse 19, it says, in which he, that's Jesus, went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison because they formerly did not obey when God's patience waited in the days of Noah while the ark was being prepared in which a few, that is eight persons were brought safely through the water. Baptism, which corresponds to this now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God with angels and authorities and powers having been subjected to him. [00:40:19] (50 seconds)

I'm going to give you what I believe is the outline to Peter's victory speech, to the declaration that Jesus Christ has won, because I think what it is that is being declared is necessary for you and I to not only understand, but to embrace and ultimately to share as a victory that is for others as well. So if you're a note taker, let me encourage you to write this down. Christ's victory upon which Peter's ministry, and I would argue the church is being built, declares that Jesus' salvation is for us. That Jesus' salvation is for us. I'm going to show this to you explicitly in verse 18. It's a reason I had you highlight and mark that in your Bibles. It says, for Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit. [00:41:55] (56 seconds)

And so some of us are holding on thinking, well, when I can just get my life together, when I can just get over this addiction, when I can just stop this negative pattern of behavior, then I'll be ready to be in right relationship with God. But that is the antithesis of the gospel. The gospel is that the righteous, Jesus, came for us, the unrighteous. The sinless came to save the guilty. He exchanged his life and everything good about himself for you and me and took upon himself everything inherently bad within us. This is what the apostle Paul means when he writes what the great reformer Martin Luther has nicknamed as the great exchange. In 2 Corinthians chapter 5 verse 21, this is my life verse because it's a summary of the gospel. [00:44:10] (53 seconds)

For our sake, he made him who knew no sin to be sin so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Can you imagine a God whose love is so great that he would take everything wrong with you and me and give to us everything right about himself? That he would trade places with us? and exchange with us his goodness for all that is bad in you and me. And when we understand this, I believe we are so transformed by it that we begin to see gospel overtures in all areas of our life. Mary and I are going to celebrate 25 years of marriage this summer. And on our 15th wedding anniversary, we went to New York City for a trip. I had never been to the Big Apple. It was awesome. We had a great time. And we went and saw several Broadway shows, including Les Mis. [00:45:26] (60 seconds)

And I don't know if any of you are familiar with Les Mis. It's a great play. It's been made into a great movie. In fact, I don't even know exactly how to say the full name. Les Miserables? I'm not sure. Y 'all don't know either. This is Texas. Come on. Don't judge. So we went to see Les Mis on Broadway and it was amazing. And just before halftime, I think they call it intermission. So just before halftime, there's this incredible moment that happens in the play where Jean Valjean, the lead character, has stolen things and has grievously sinned. And he's about to be caught and rightly punished for his sin. But the priest from whom he stole these things extends to Jean Valjean this incredible measure of kindness and goodness and favor. [00:46:47] (57 seconds)

And Jesus' salvation is for us. The righteous for the unrighteous. The sinless pay the price for the guilty. Here's the second thing that Peter proclaims is Jesus' proclamation is to others. Jesus' proclamation is to others. Now, I'm just going to say before we read these verses, there's been a lot of debate through the years as to what is meant by these verses. But once I share with you what I believe is happening, then the summary understanding of what it is that Peter declares here is crystal clear. Let's read it again. Verses 19 and 20. It says, in which he, that's Jesus, went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison because they formerly did not obey when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is eight persons, were brought safely through the water. [00:48:47] (63 seconds)