Preparing For The Lord's Day

Preparing for the Lord's Day

EXILES IN A FOREIGN LAND

1 Peter Sermon Series

While suffering is not a popular topic, it is an important one for Christians to study. While there are many who would present Christianity as a path away from suffering, the reality is that all Christians should expect suffering in this life. Jesus promised that His disciples would suffer. In 1 Peter 4 the Apostle Peter, echoing the words of Christ, says that Christians should not think it strange when they encounter suffering. Suffering is a reality in the Christian experience. Nevertheless, we are not to suffer in the same manner as the world. Rather we are called to suffer in a way that reveals our hope in the gospel and our joy in the glory of God. To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and to meditate upon 1 Peter 4:12-16, Psalm 73, Matthew 5:11, John 15:20, Acts 5:41, Colossians 1:24, and 1 Thessalonians 3:3-4. I would also recommend the book, Suffering and the Sovereignty of God, available for free PDF download.

This week we will celebrate that sacrament of the Lord’s Supper during our worship service. As we receive the elements of bread and wine we look in faith to the Lord Jesus Christ. For as we physically receive the signs of the Lord’s body and blood, spiritually we feed upon Him and all His benefits. Our hymns for this week include "How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds," "There Is a Redeemer," and "I Will Sing of My Redeemer."

If you’re going to be out of town this Sunday, let me encourage you to listen to the sermon online (usually posted by Monday afternoon) or you can download the REPC podcast, which will be delivered to your mobile device.

Sermon Notes

Text: 1 Peter 4:12-16
Title: To Suffer as a Christian

1. Every Christian must know they are loved by God. (12a)
2. Every Christian must expect to be tested by God. (12b)
3. Every Christian must rejoice in their union with Christ. (13)
4. Every Christian must trust the blessing of the Spirit. (14)
5. Every Christian must flee the suffering of sin. (15)
6. Every Christian must unashamedly glorify God. (16)

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