1 Peter 3:14-16 / Be Prepared
Sermon • Submitted • Presented • 49:38
0 ratings
· 831 viewsFiles
Notes
Transcript
Handout
Be Resolute.
Be Resolute.
14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,
Consider the probability of opposition.
That is true of any cause.
However, we have a promise.
You WILL BE BLESSED
WHO does the blessing. (God)
WHEN you will be blessed…
Is that blessing material or spiritual?
Which kind will last?
Your resolve should be expressed through your courage.
Your resolve should be expressed through your courage.
“Have nor fear of them”
Come to terms with the reality that…
Death is not the worst thing that can happen to you.
Seems over the top (some face fatal opposition)
Be Prepared.
Be Prepared.
15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
“… but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you;…
Driving force that cancels out your fear?
Your honor for Christ’s holiness
If you want to have the courage of an apostle
Honor Christ as holy
ALWAYS
ALWAYS
Makes demands in your life.
Demands you make it more than something you talk about.
Demands complete devotion
Makes it more than an attribute of your character
It demands it be foundational to your identity.
BE PREPARED to make a defense...
BE PREPARED to make a defense...
Spiritually
How are you and God doing?
Are your living righteously?
Intellectually
Do know what you believe and why.
… to give a defense for your faith
We owe the world an answer!!!!
Emotionally
Lose your pride! (its not about you)
You love them ….really!
“Dad, why don’t we pray for atheist instead of arguing with them?”
-Becca
The lie of: “I don’t really know enough.”
Jesus took a boys lunch and feed thousands!
GO with what you’ve got!
Be Kind.
Be Kind.
15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
Verse 14 is an encouragement not a dare.
We don’t need to entice arguments in search of a blessing.
Don’t see objections as a voice to be silenced
Behind that voice is a soul that needs Jesus.
Don’t argue with the voice. Speak to the soul.
Try to understand them
Understand their
hurt
anger
confusion
See them as Christ does
Don’t simple struggle to treat them lovingly.
But strive to actually love them.
Be Defended.
Be Defended.
16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.
“… having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.”
Encouragement that...
Even those who disagree with your message can be moved by your kindness.
Keep your conscience clear
You may not win the argument with your words
But by your behavior… you can win the respect of those watching.