Eternal_Glory_in_Christ.docx

of the Sermon:**

Today’s message, the final part of our series in 1 Peter, focused on “Eternal Glory in Christ.” We reflected on how Peter, writing from a place of suffering, lifts our eyes beyond our present pain to the ultimate purpose: the glory of God. Throughout the series, we’ve seen that grace is the atmosphere of the believer’s life, that suffering is not the end but the stage where grace shines brightest, and that God’s promises carry us forward with hope. Peter’s letter begins and ends with worship, reminding us that our response to God’s grace—especially in suffering—is a life of worship and surrender. The declaration “To Him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen” is not just a conclusion, but a bold affirmation that God is on the throne, His grace is sustaining us, and His eternal glory is our anchor. We are called to live “Amen lives”—not just believing in God’s eternal glory, but aligning ourselves with it now, letting grace shape our story, and trusting that restoration is God’s promise.

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Key Takeaways

• 1. Worship as a Response to Grace: True worship is not just about singing or praying, but about surrendering every part of our lives—including our suffering—to God. When we see God’s grace at work in our weakness, worship becomes the most natural response. It’s a lifestyle of reverent submission, where even our pain becomes an offering that glorifies God. This kind of worship doesn’t ignore hardship; it sings through it, trusting in God’s faithfulness.
• 2. God’s Dominion in a Chaotic World: Peter’s declaration that “to Him be the dominion forever and ever” is a powerful reminder that God’s rule is unshakable, even when the world feels out of control. Human power may seem to dominate for a time, but God’s sovereignty is eternal. Surrendering our need for control and resting in God’s authority brings peace and perspective, especially in seasons of uncertainty. Our hope is anchored not in what we see, but in the One who reigns forever.
• 3. Grace Transforms Suffering: Suffering is not wasted in the life of a believer; it becomes the very place where grace is most visible and transformative. Peter, who endured persecution and hardship, teaches us that God’s grace doesn’t just help us survive suffering—it restores, strengthens, and establishes us. Our trials are temporary, but the restoration God promises is eternal. This perspective allows us to face hardship with hope, knowing that God is working for our good and His glory.
• 4. Living an “Amen” Life: To live an “Amen” life means more than just agreeing with God’s promises—it means actively aligning our hearts, actions, and hopes with His eternal truth. “Amen” is a declaration of confidence that what God has said is trustworthy and will come to pass. This kind of faith shapes how we respond to both joy and pain, anchoring us in the reality that eternity is already breaking into our present. It’s an invitation to live with assurance, purpose, and unwavering trust in God’s faithfulness.
• 5. Grace as the Lens for Our Story: The grace of God is not just a theological concept; it’s the lens through which we are invited to see our entire story. When we view our lives—our successes, failures, joys, and sorrows—through the lens of grace, we find hope and meaning even in the hardest moments. God’s grace anchors us, fuels our hope, and shapes us for eternity. Today can be the beginning of a new way to live: anchored in grace, fueled by hope, and surrounded by the love of the God who calls us to His eternal glory in Christ.

**Bible Study Discussion Guide: Eternal Glory in Christ**

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### Bible Reading

- **1 Peter 5:6-11 (NIV)**
> 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
> 8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
> 10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11 To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

- **1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)**
> Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

- **Hebrews 4:16 (NIV)**
> Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to 1 Peter 5:6-11, what are believers instructed to do with their anxieties and why?
2. What does Peter say God will do for believers after they have suffered “a little while”?
3. In 1 Peter 1:3, what does Peter say we have been given through God’s mercy?
4. How does Hebrews 4:16 describe the way we should approach God, and what can we expect to receive?

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does Peter connect suffering with God’s grace and restoration? What does this suggest about the purpose of suffering in the Christian life?
2. The sermon described worship as a lifestyle of surrender, not just singing or praying. How might this understanding of worship change the way someone responds to hardship?
3. Peter’s declaration “To Him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen” is described as a bold affirmation, not just a conclusion. What does it mean for a believer to live as if God truly has dominion, especially when life feels chaotic?
4. The sermon talked about living an “Amen” life—actively aligning with God’s promises now. What might it look like for someone to do this in their daily routines or relationships?

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon said that worship is surrendering every part of our lives, including our suffering, to God. Is there a specific area of your life or a struggle you find hard to surrender? What would it look like to offer that to God as an act of worship this week?
2. Peter encourages us to cast all our anxieties on God because He cares for us. What is one worry or anxiety you are carrying right now? How can you practically “cast” it onto God this week?
3. The message highlighted that God’s grace is most visible in our weakness and suffering. Can you think of a time when you experienced God’s grace during a difficult season? How did it change your perspective or actions?
4. The sermon challenged us to let go of our need for control and rest in God’s authority. Are there areas where you struggle to trust God’s rule? What is one step you could take to surrender control and trust Him more?
5. Living an “Amen” life means aligning our hearts and actions with God’s eternal truth. Is there a promise of God that you struggle to believe or live out? What would it look like to say “Amen” to that promise in a practical way this week?
6. The idea of seeing our whole story through the lens of grace was emphasized. How might viewing your past successes or failures through God’s grace change the way you see yourself or your future?
7. The sermon ended with an invitation to let today be the beginning of a new way to live—anchored in grace, fueled by hope, and surrounded by God’s love. What is one specific change you want to make in your attitude, habits, or relationships to live this out?

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