Steve Durand - March 25, 2018
Living as Exiles - 1 Peter 1:1-2
Whenever we hear the term exile, our minds often run to an image of someone separated from their homeland or family. This could take the form of a refugee or an immigrant, but we could also broaden the term to perhaps include the Christian teenager who doesn’t fit in, the Christ-follower who is undergoing opposition for their beliefs, the person who feels hopeless about their current circumstances, or anyone who feels like they are living outside of where they long to be.
Today, we as Christians are, in a sense, exiles. That’s because, as we’ll see in our new sermon series based on the book of 1 Peter, we are living between two worlds. Our current world is tainted by sin, suffering, hostility, and persecution, but our future home – the one we long for and look forward to – is one that ought to fill us with inexpressible joy and hope. So, no matter where you are experiencing exile, remember that you’re not home yet. God promises that there’s a better day coming for all who put their hope and trust in Him.
From Series: "Between 2 Worlds"
This Week's Sermon: "Peter’s Closing Briefing"
brief·ing ˈbrēfiNG noun - a meeting for giving information or instructions.
Most of us love briefings because they are usually short and to the point. It's not a time for a lot of chit chat. Important information is shared, and then you're done. It's time to go get to work.
As parents we often give briefings to our kids before they're ready to head out the door. It's dangerous out there and we want them to be safe. We want them to make good choices. So we figure another short reminder can’t hurt. Which is why we say things like: “Be careful” or “Don't talk to strangers” or “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”
This Sunday we complete our study through the book of 1 Peter. But not without a final briefing from Peter that could make the difference in whether we will win or lose the war we are in. You know that we are in a war, right? Danger is all around us in this fallen world, and we need to be battle ready. Peter’s closing words will help us do that.
