Living as Strangers: Our Identity in Christ

 

Summary

In the first Epistle of Peter, chapter 2, verses 11 and 12, we are reminded of our identity as strangers and pilgrims in this world. This identity calls us to abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul and to live honorably among non-believers. The essence of this message is that as Christians, we are called to live in a way that reflects our status as God's people, distinct from the world around us. This distinction is not just for our benefit but also serves as a testimony to others, leading them to glorify God.

The foundation of our confidence and joy, even in the face of adversity, is our faith in Jesus Christ, the Chief Cornerstone. This faith assures us that we will never be confounded, regardless of the circumstances. The promises of God are reserved for His people, those who have undergone a profound transformation through rebirth and regeneration. This transformation is not self-induced but is a divine act where God imparts new life and adopts us into His family.

As Christians, we are called to live lives that are visibly different from those around us. This difference is not just internal but is recognized by others, often leading to misunderstanding and persecution. However, this persecution is a testament to our faith and a confirmation of our identity as God's people. Our lives should be marked by a focus on the soul's centrality, recognizing its supreme importance over all earthly pursuits.

Our relationship with the world is transformed; we are no longer of it but are pilgrims journeying towards a new world, a new creation where righteousness dwells. This perspective allows us to live with hope and assurance, knowing that our ultimate home is with God. Our lives should be lived with an eye towards God's glory, seeking to please Him and to be a witness to others, drawing them to the truth of the gospel.

Key Takeaways:

- Identity as Strangers and Pilgrims: As Christians, we are called to live as strangers and pilgrims in this world, abstaining from fleshly lusts that war against the soul. This identity shapes our actions and attitudes, setting us apart from the world and serving as a testimony to others. [28:11]

- Foundation in Christ: Our confidence and joy are rooted in our faith in Jesus Christ, the Chief Cornerstone. This faith assures us that we will never be confounded, regardless of the circumstances we face. [01:19]

- Transformation through Rebirth: Becoming a Christian involves a profound transformation through rebirth and regeneration, a divine act where God imparts new life and adopts us into His family. This transformation is not self-induced but is a work of God. [06:25]

- Visible Difference and Persecution: Our lives as Christians should be visibly different from those around us, often leading to misunderstanding and persecution. This persecution is a testament to our faith and a confirmation of our identity as God's people. [20:14]

- Focus on the Soul's Centrality: The Christian life is marked by a focus on the soul's centrality, recognizing its supreme importance over all earthly pursuits. This perspective allows us to live with hope and assurance, knowing that our ultimate home is with God. [28:29]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:11] - Introduction to 1 Peter 2:11-12
- [01:02] - The Chief Cornerstone
- [02:14] - Rejoicing in Adversity
- [03:26] - The People of God
- [05:11] - Urgency of Belonging to God's People
- [06:25] - Transformation through Rebirth
- [08:01] - Recognizing the Precious Stone
- [09:02] - Tests of True Faith
- [11:30] - Negative Test: Recognition by Others
- [13:18] - Visible Difference
- [15:57] - Misunderstanding and Persecution
- [20:14] - Criticism and Persecution
- [27:39] - Positive Proofs of Faith
- [28:29] - Centrality of the Soul
- [40:09] - New Relationship with the World
- [46:29] - Pilgrimage to a New World
- [49:45] - Living for God's Glory

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1 Peter 2:11-12

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Observation Questions:

1. What does Peter mean when he refers to Christians as "strangers and pilgrims" in this world? How does this identity influence their behavior? [00:11]

2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of Jesus Christ being referred to as the "Chief Cornerstone"? [01:19]

3. How does the sermon describe the transformation that occurs through rebirth and regeneration? What role does God play in this process? [06:25]

4. What are some ways that non-believers might react to the visible difference in Christians, as mentioned in the sermon? [20:14]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the identity of being "strangers and pilgrims" challenge Christians to live differently from the world around them? What are some practical implications of this identity? [00:11]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that faith in Jesus Christ as the Chief Cornerstone provides confidence and joy, even in adversity? [02:14]

3. How does the concept of rebirth and regeneration redefine what it means to be part of God's family, according to the sermon? [06:25]

4. Why might the visible difference in a Christian's life lead to misunderstanding and persecution from non-believers? How should Christians respond to such reactions? [20:14]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own life. In what ways do you see yourself living as a "stranger and pilgrim" in this world? Are there areas where you feel too comfortable or attached to worldly things? [00:11]

2. How can you strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ as the Chief Cornerstone to maintain confidence and joy during challenging times? What specific steps can you take this week? [02:14]

3. Consider the transformation through rebirth and regeneration. How has this transformation been evident in your life? Are there areas where you still struggle to live out this new identity? [06:25]

4. Have you experienced misunderstanding or persecution because of your faith? How did you respond, and what might you do differently in the future to be a witness to others? [20:14]

5. The sermon emphasizes the centrality of the soul. How can you prioritize the health and growth of your soul over earthly pursuits this week? What specific actions will you take? [28:29]

6. How does your relationship with the world reflect your identity as a pilgrim journeying towards a new creation? Are there changes you need to make to align more closely with this perspective? [40:09]

7. In what ways can you live with an eye towards God's glory, seeking to please Him and be a witness to others? Identify one person you can share your faith with this week. [49:45]

Devotional

Day 1: Living as Strangers and Pilgrims
As Christians, we are called to live as strangers and pilgrims in this world, abstaining from fleshly lusts that war against the soul. This identity shapes our actions and attitudes, setting us apart from the world and serving as a testimony to others. Our lives should reflect our status as God's people, distinct from the world around us. This distinction is not just for our benefit but also serves as a testimony to others, leading them to glorify God. By living honorably among non-believers, we demonstrate the transformative power of our faith and invite others to explore the truth of the gospel. [28:11]

1 Peter 2:11-12 (ESV): "Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation."

Reflection: In what specific ways can you live today as a stranger and pilgrim, abstaining from worldly desires and reflecting God's love to those around you?


Day 2: Confidence in the Chief Cornerstone
Our confidence and joy are rooted in our faith in Jesus Christ, the Chief Cornerstone. This faith assures us that we will never be confounded, regardless of the circumstances we face. The foundation of our confidence and joy, even in the face of adversity, is our faith in Jesus Christ. This faith is not based on our own strength or understanding but on the promises of God, which are reserved for His people. By trusting in Christ, we find assurance and hope, knowing that He is the solid foundation upon which we build our lives. [01:19]

Isaiah 28:16 (ESV): "Therefore thus says the Lord God, 'Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: 'Whoever believes will not be in haste.'"

Reflection: How can you actively place your trust in Jesus as your Chief Cornerstone today, especially in a situation where you feel uncertain or anxious?


Day 3: Transformation through Rebirth
Becoming a Christian involves a profound transformation through rebirth and regeneration, a divine act where God imparts new life and adopts us into His family. This transformation is not self-induced but is a work of God. As Christians, we experience a profound transformation through rebirth and regeneration. This is not something we achieve on our own but is a divine act where God imparts new life and adopts us into His family. This transformation changes our identity and purpose, aligning us with God's will and enabling us to live in a way that reflects His love and grace. [06:25]

Titus 3:5-6 (ESV): "He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior."

Reflection: Reflect on a specific area of your life where you have experienced God's transformative power. How can you continue to allow Him to work in and through you today?


Day 4: Embracing Persecution as a Testament of Faith
Our lives as Christians should be visibly different from those around us, often leading to misunderstanding and persecution. This persecution is a testament to our faith and a confirmation of our identity as God's people. As we live out our faith, we may face misunderstanding and persecution from those who do not share our beliefs. However, this persecution is a testament to our faith and a confirmation of our identity as God's people. By embracing these challenges, we demonstrate the strength and resilience of our faith, and we bear witness to the transformative power of the gospel. [20:14]

2 Timothy 3:12 (ESV): "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."

Reflection: How can you respond with grace and love to any misunderstanding or persecution you face today because of your faith?


Day 5: Focusing on the Soul's Centrality
The Christian life is marked by a focus on the soul's centrality, recognizing its supreme importance over all earthly pursuits. This perspective allows us to live with hope and assurance, knowing that our ultimate home is with God. Our relationship with the world is transformed; we are no longer of it but are pilgrims journeying towards a new world, a new creation where righteousness dwells. By focusing on the soul's centrality, we prioritize our spiritual well-being and align our lives with God's eternal purposes. [28:29]

Colossians 3:2-3 (ESV): "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God."

Reflection: What is one earthly pursuit that often distracts you from focusing on your soul's well-being? How can you shift your focus towards God's eternal purposes today?

Quotes

In the first Epistle of Peter, chapter 2, verses 11 and 12, we are reminded of our identity as strangers and pilgrims in this world. This identity calls us to abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul and to live honorably among non-believers. The essence of this message is that as Christians, we are called to live in a way that reflects our status as God's people, distinct from the world around us. This distinction is not just for our benefit but also serves as a testimony to others, leading them to glorify God. [00:00:11]

The foundation of our confidence and joy, even in the face of adversity, is our faith in Jesus Christ, the Chief Cornerstone. This faith assures us that we will never be confounded, regardless of the circumstances. The promises of God are reserved for His people, those who have undergone a profound transformation through rebirth and regeneration. This transformation is not self-induced but is a divine act where God imparts new life and adopts us into His family. [00:01:02]

As Christians, we are called to live lives that are visibly different from those around us. This difference is not just internal but is recognized by others, often leading to misunderstanding and persecution. However, this persecution is a testament to our faith and a confirmation of our identity as God's people. Our lives should be marked by a focus on the soul's centrality, recognizing its supreme importance over all earthly pursuits. [00:20:14]

Our relationship with the world is transformed; we are no longer of it but are pilgrims journeying towards a new world, a new creation where righteousness dwells. This perspective allows us to live with hope and assurance, knowing that our ultimate home is with God. Our lives should be lived with an eye towards God's glory, seeking to please Him and to be a witness to others, drawing them to the truth of the gospel. [00:28:29]

The secret of it all according to this statement is this: this is only true of those who are the people of God. People of God, he says here, which in time past were not the people but are now the people of God. That's the whole secret. Everything that is Promised in the Bible is only promised to those who are the people of God. [00:03:49]

To become a Christian, to become one of the people of God, means that God has to perform an operation in our souls which is called this rebirth or regeneration. It's his action. We can't do it. None of us ever give birth to ourselves. No man has ever made himself a Christian or produced himself as a Christian. [00:06:25]

The moment a man becomes a Christian, those who are not Christian know that something's happened to him. That's his proposition, and it's absolutely true. There was an old Puritan who lived about 300 years ago. He put this very well, I always think. He said the moment a man becomes a Christian, he said everybody else knows that it's happened to him. [00:13:18]

The Christian is a man who can respond to that appeal. Why? Well, because of the centrality of the soul in his whole outlook. What do I mean? Well, I mean this: it means in the first place that he's aware of the fact that he's got a soul, and that's a tremendous thing. You see, the trouble with the world is that it doesn't know that it's got a soul. [00:28:29]

The Christian is a man who's come to know that this world, as the Apostle Paul puts it in writing to the Galatians, is this present evil world. He knows it's a fallen world. It's a world that's gone wrong. It's a world that is under the curse of God, not the blessing of God. God made a perfect world so that it was good. [00:46:29]

The Christian belief is that this present evil world is going to be judged, it's going to be destroyed, but afterwards, there shall be a new heavens and a new Earth wherein dwelleth righteousness. He knows that a glorious world is coming that's going to be a stable World. There'll be no war in that world, there'll be no sorrow, there'll be no sin. [00:49:45]

The Christian is a man who's concerned about those who are not Christian. He sees them apparently enjoying themselves. He knows it's a kind of drunkenness, drunken intellectually. He sees the he knows it's all going to come to a terrible end, a horrible cataclysm that will smash everything, and they'll have nothing on which to rest. [00:51:00]

The Christian knows that a day is coming when at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, of things in heaven and things on earth and things under the Earth, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the father. He knows that the day is coming when they'll have to admit it. [00:52:00]

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Transcript
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