Fervent and Focused (1 Peter 4:1-11)
Gearl Spicer, March 20, 2022
Part of the All In - Tested By Fire series, preached at a Sunday Online service
1 Peter 4:1–11 (Listen)
4:1 Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. 3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.
7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
(ESV)
Sermon Notes
All In - Tested By Fire
Fervent and Focused
I Peter 4:1-11
3/20/22
Do you realize Jesus could come at any moment?
Simple and insightful instructions are given to challenge us in daily living!
* Purpose
* Accountability
* Fervency
* Kindness
* Service
* Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin..vs.1
*The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. vs.7-8
As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Vs. 10
Fervent - intent and determined
Focused - aware and active
I. Arm yourselves for effectiveness - vs.1-3
A. Preparing for suffering is key to witness
B. Avoid any detriments to His will
II. Accountable choices for impact - vs.4-6
A. Don't be surprised by challenges
B. Recognize every choice has a consequence
III. Faithful stewards to bless others.vs. 7-9
A. Prayer is anointed by wise judgment and submitting
B. Love allows us to understand God's way
C. Hospitality opens our lives to touch lives
IV. Serve and share willingly to honor Him - vs.10-11
A. Steward grace to impact others
B. Serve to glorify God
Are you fervent and focused?