Understanding Salvation: A Journey of Transformation in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into 1 Peter 1:10-12, focusing on the profound concept of "this salvation." This passage concludes the introduction to 1 Peter, where Peter addresses believers living in a challenging environment, reminding them of their ultimate citizenship in Christ. The theme of our series is "Identity: Finding My Identity in Christ," and today we explored how salvation has always been central to God's plan, as evidenced by the prophets, the Holy Spirit, the apostles, and even the angels.
The prophets, who prophesied about the grace to come, were deeply invested in understanding the salvation they foretold, even though they did not see its fulfillment in their lifetimes. The Holy Spirit played a crucial role in revealing these truths to the prophets and continues to guide us today. The apostles, who preached the good news, were instrumental in spreading the message of salvation, and their teachings continue to impact us. Even the angels long to look into these things, highlighting the wonder and mystery of salvation.
We also discussed how salvation is not just a one-time event but a transformative journey. It is about a relationship with Jesus, a continuous process of being molded and shaped by God. This salvation is an investment in our lives for the benefit of others, calling us to share the good news and invest in the spiritual growth of those around us.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Prophets' Perspective: The prophets of the Old Testament were deeply invested in the concept of salvation, even though they did not see its fulfillment in their lifetimes. They wrote about the coming Messiah and the grace that would be revealed, pointing to a future they could only glimpse. This shows the timeless nature of God's plan and the importance of faith and obedience in the face of the unknown. [33:35]
2. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is essential in revealing and interpreting the truths of salvation. The Spirit guided the prophets and continues to guide us today, helping us understand and live out the gospel. This underscores the importance of being attuned to the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives, as it is through the Spirit that we receive divine revelation and guidance. [37:00]
3. The Apostles' Mission: The apostles were tasked with spreading the message of salvation, and their teachings continue to impact us today. They were the first to preach the good news, and their writings form the foundation of our faith. This highlights the importance of discipleship and the ongoing mission to share the gospel with others. [39:26]
4. The Angels' Wonder: Even the angels long to look into the mysteries of salvation, highlighting its profound and awe-inspiring nature. Unlike humans, angels have not experienced redemption, making our salvation a unique and precious gift. This should inspire us to cherish and celebrate our salvation daily, recognizing its unparalleled value. [41:10]
5. Salvation as a Transformative Journey: Salvation is not a one-time event but a continuous process of transformation. It is about developing a deep, personal relationship with Jesus and allowing Him to mold and shape us. This ongoing transformation should be evident in our lives, as we grow in faith and become more like Christ. [49:25]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[03:51] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
[22:52] - Introduction of Guest Speaker
[24:00] - Steppin' Up Conference Details
[25:32] - Food Distribution Ministry
[26:58] - Personal Family Update
[27:40] - Introduction to 1 Peter 1:10-12
[29:03] - Reading of the Scripture
[30:32] - Overview of 1 Peter's Introduction
[32:40] - The Prophets' Perspective on Salvation
[37:00] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
[39:26] - The Apostles' Mission
[41:10] - The Angels' Wonder
[42:18] - The Significance of Salvation
[49:25] - Salvation as a Transformative Journey
[57:07] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1 Peter 1:10-12 (ESV)
> "Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look."
#### Observation Questions
1. What did the prophets of the Old Testament do concerning the grace that was to come? ([33:35])
2. How does the Holy Spirit play a role in revealing the truths of salvation according to the sermon? ([37:00])
3. What is the significance of the apostles' mission in spreading the message of salvation? ([39:26])
4. Why do the angels long to look into the mysteries of salvation? ([41:10])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to understand that salvation is a continuous process rather than a one-time event? ([49:25])
2. How does the involvement of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the prophets and apostles emphasize the importance of being attuned to the Spirit today? ([37:00])
3. What does it mean for salvation to be an investment in our lives for the benefit of others? ([52:36])
4. How can the wonder and awe that angels have for salvation inspire us to cherish our own salvation more deeply? ([41:10])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the prophets' dedication to understanding salvation despite not seeing its fulfillment. How can you demonstrate similar faith and obedience in your own life? ([33:35])
2. The Holy Spirit continues to guide us today. How can you become more attuned to the Holy Spirit's leading in your daily life? ([37:00])
3. The apostles' mission was to spread the good news. Identify one person in your life with whom you can share the message of salvation this week. ([39:26])
4. Considering that even angels long to look into the mysteries of salvation, how can you cultivate a sense of wonder and gratitude for your own salvation? ([41:10])
5. Salvation is described as a transformative journey. What specific steps can you take this week to deepen your relationship with Jesus and allow Him to mold and shape you? ([49:25])
6. How can you invest in the spiritual growth of those around you, as the prophets and apostles did? Identify one practical way to support someone else's faith journey this week. ([52:36])
7. Do you sometimes take your salvation for granted? What can you do to celebrate and cherish your salvation daily? ([43:59])
Devotional
Day 1: The Prophets' Perspective on Salvation
The prophets of the Old Testament were deeply invested in the concept of salvation, even though they did not see its fulfillment in their lifetimes. They wrote about the coming Messiah and the grace that would be revealed, pointing to a future they could only glimpse. This shows the timeless nature of God's plan and the importance of faith and obedience in the face of the unknown. The prophets' dedication to understanding and proclaiming God's message, despite not experiencing its fulfillment, serves as a powerful example of faith and perseverance for us today. Their writings remind us that God's plan is eternal and that our faithfulness contributes to a larger narrative that transcends our immediate circumstances. [33:35]
1 Peter 1:10-11 (ESV): "Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories."
Reflection: Think about a promise or vision God has given you that you have yet to see fulfilled. How can you remain faithful and obedient, trusting in God's timing and plan?
Day 2: The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is essential in revealing and interpreting the truths of salvation. The Spirit guided the prophets and continues to guide us today, helping us understand and live out the gospel. This underscores the importance of being attuned to the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives, as it is through the Spirit that we receive divine revelation and guidance. The Holy Spirit's role is not just historical but ongoing, actively working in our hearts and minds to deepen our understanding of God's word and to empower us to live out our faith. [37:00]
John 16:13 (ESV): "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come."
Reflection: In what ways can you become more attuned to the Holy Spirit's guidance in your daily life? Consider setting aside specific times for prayer and listening to God's voice.
Day 3: The Apostles' Mission
The apostles were tasked with spreading the message of salvation, and their teachings continue to impact us today. They were the first to preach the good news, and their writings form the foundation of our faith. This highlights the importance of discipleship and the ongoing mission to share the gospel with others. The apostles' dedication to their mission, despite facing persecution and hardship, serves as a powerful reminder of our own calling to be witnesses of Christ's love and salvation in our communities and beyond. [39:26]
Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear the message of salvation? How can you take a step today to share the gospel with them, whether through words or actions?
Day 4: The Angels' Wonder
Even the angels long to look into the mysteries of salvation, highlighting its profound and awe-inspiring nature. Unlike humans, angels have not experienced redemption, making our salvation a unique and precious gift. This should inspire us to cherish and celebrate our salvation daily, recognizing its unparalleled value. The angels' curiosity and amazement at God's plan of salvation remind us of the incredible privilege we have as recipients of God's grace and the importance of living in a way that reflects our gratitude for this gift. [41:10]
Hebrews 1:14 (ESV): "Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?"
Reflection: How often do you take time to reflect on and celebrate your salvation? What are some practical ways you can express your gratitude to God for this incredible gift?
Day 5: Salvation as a Transformative Journey
Salvation is not a one-time event but a continuous process of transformation. It is about developing a deep, personal relationship with Jesus and allowing Him to mold and shape us. This ongoing transformation should be evident in our lives, as we grow in faith and become more like Christ. The journey of salvation involves daily surrender, growth, and the willingness to be shaped by God's hands, impacting not only our lives but also the lives of those around us. [49:25]
Philippians 1:6 (ESV): "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to allow God to continue His transformative work? How can you actively participate in this process of becoming more like Christ?
Quotes
1. "He also cautions that this life is not without trials. And we spent a lot of time talking about that recently as well, and that trials are not necessarily an indicator of punishment or an indicator of anything else, but that God has got a plan and is going to bring us through those things, and it's part of the walk. If we're going to follow in Christ's footsteps, he suffered, we also are going to suffer from time to time." [31:54] (24 seconds)
2. "The entire Old Testament points to, the coming of the Christ, the need for a savior. The reality that we can't get out of this life and survive it without him. I love what Isaiah says in chapter 53, verse 5. But he was pierced for our transgressions. He was crushed for our iniquities. Upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we were healed." [34:33] (33 seconds)
3. "So we now, because of the grace of God, we've been freed from that. And he says, if you'll just trust me, I'll equip you to do what I want you to do. If you'll just trust me, I'll cover all of your past. I'll cover all your sin. I'll guide you through the things that you struggle with now. You'll be freed from that bondage, and you just live a life with me. That's a wonderful blessing." [43:59] (29 seconds)
4. "Do we celebrate salvation enough? I mean, when we get up in the morning, we should be celebrating salvation. I know for many of us, it's instead of good morning, Lord, it's good, Lord, it's morning. I understand that. But I'm just saying, the old song, praise him in the morning, praise him in the evening. We sang about it today. Praise him in the morning, praise him in the noontime, praise him in the evening time. We should be celebrating the fact that we've been freed from the bondage of sin and freed from the bondage of having to live by the law on our own standards, by our own strength." [43:59] (48 seconds)
5. "This salvation is all about a relationship with Jesus. I'm going to go back to the Old Testament in the prophet Jeremiah and talk to you about how Jeremiah knew this was coming. He didn't know exactly how it was going to look, but he knew this was going to be what was going to happen because God gave him these words and he wrote them down. And he probably went back and read it afterwards and said, oh my." [46:04] (25 seconds)
6. "This salvation is not a one-time act, but a transformed life. Sometimes in the Christian life, you know, particularly when we're talking about things that have to do with children, you know, like maybe a Bible school or some sort of camp or youth camp or those kinds of things. And I pray that today will be the day he would draw you into that. And if you don't, we tend to think about salvation as sort of a destination." [49:25] (30 seconds)
7. "This salvation is an investment in your life for others. You remember what it said in the text that we read today? Verse 12, it was revealed to them, the prophets, that they were serving not themselves but you. The prophets did not get to see in this life the results of what they were writing about. But they were faithful to do it." [52:36] (22 seconds)
8. "So the question that I want to bring this to a close with, and it's for me too, what are you doing with the salvation? Is it just a destination? I'm saved now. Or is your salvation a beginning to an abundant life? Where you get the privilege of being able to pour that into other people by the power of the Holy Spirit. Ain't God good?" [57:07] (43 seconds)
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