1 Peter 01:03-09 – Peter’s Comfort and Encouragement

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Text: 1 Peter 1:3-9

Introduction

A. Over the past week or so, several members of our congregation have experienced the death of a loved one.

B. A passage is often read at the funeral to give us words of comfort and encouragement. Today, we will let the apostle Peter speak inspired words of God to us.

C. Let us reflect on the promises that we have in Christ Jesus (1 Peter 1:3-9).

Body

I. Christians have a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

A. Christ is risen from the dead, and is thus the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:20-23).

B. If Christ had not risen, our faith would be futile and we would only have a limited hope (1 Corinthians 15:17-19).

C. We can comfort one another with the words of hope in Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

II. Christians have an inheritance.

A. By becoming children of God, we become His heirs and are joint heirs with Christ (Galatians 3:29-4:7).

B. Our inheritance is:

1) incorruptible (immortal, imperishable, and lasting).

2) undefiled (pure and unstained).

3) not fading away (permanent).

4) reserved in heaven (Colossians 1:3-6; John 14:1-4).

III. Christians are kept by the power of God.

A. Jesus tells us that we are very secure in the grasp of God’s hand (John 10:27-29).

B. Christ lives by the power of God, and so can we (2 Corinthians 13:4).

C. God’s power is effective through faith for salvation (Hebrews 11:1,6; Romans 10:17; James 2:17,20; Ephesians 2:8; Romans 4:16).

D. God’s power is ready to be revealed in the last time (Revelation 12:10-12; 19:1; Matthew 24:29-31; Luke 21:25-28).

IV. Christians rejoice, eagerly awaiting the reward in heaven.

A. Paul told Christians to rejoice always (Philippians 4:4).

B. Jesus said to “rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven (Matthew 5:12).”

C. Paul told the Corinthians that the eternal benefits outweigh the temporary affliction (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).

D. James says to rejoice in various trials, knowing that the testing of faith produces patience (James 1:2-4).

E. Jesus said that if we are faithful until death, we will receive the crown of life (Revelation 2:10).

V. Christians will receive the end of their faith, the salvation of their souls.

A. Paul said that now abide faith, hope, and love; the greatest of these is love (1 Corinthians 13:13).

B. The end of all things is at hand (1 Peter 4:7).

C. We must redeem the time, for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed (Romans 13:11).

Conclusion

A. It is great to be a Christian!

B. It is also great to know and love fellow Christians.

C. Let us remain faithful to God so that we may receive the many blessings He has promised us.

D. Brethren, comfort one another with these words.