"Passion and Holiness"

“My friend,” John Adams wrote to Thomas Jefferson toward the end of both of their lives, "you and I have lived in serious times.” They died on the same day – July 4, 1826.

Sermon Text: 1 Peter 1:1-13; 2:9

Understanding our role at TACC

1. We are here by divine design – aliens (1 Peter 1:1; 2:9-12; 4:4-5; 4:14-19; Ma7hew 7:13-29; 10:16-33).

2. We live in dramatic and serious times (1 Peter 1:10-12).

3. We have massive privileges and resources (1 Peter 1:1c-3, 10-12, 17; 2:4-10).

4. We have a rich, solid, and secure future: praise God from whom all blessings flow (1 Peter 1:3-6a).

5. Our troubles have purposes and patterns (1 Peter 1:6-7, 11).

6. Our passions have changed: we know and love Jesus (1 Peter 1:8-9).

7. Gird your minds, take action, with what you now know and feel, and proclaim His excellencies (1 Peter 1:13; 2:9; Luke 9:23-27).

Discussion Questions

1. Imagine the differences in life-style between living in India and Orange County, USA. Would it be easier to be a resident alien in India? Would you pray more?

2. List all the categories for trouble/suffering that you can think of.  Which ones are the hardest? What might be some of God's purposes for them? 1 Peter 1:7; Romans 8:28; John 9:1-3; 11:4; Luke 13:1-5; 2 Cor. 4:7-11; 12:9; 12:7; 1:3-11; Romans 5:3-4; Ps. 107:17; Ps. 119:67; James 1:2-8; 1 Peter 2:19

3. Why is it better to typify the Christian life as a passion change versus a prayer prayed?

4. Read 1 Peter 2:9. Why do you think it is the key verse in 1 Peter.  Is proclaiming His excellencies more about church worship or evangelism?

5. Should every Christian be an evangelist? Can't some of us be senders, givers, prayers and let others share the good news of the Gospel?

6. Why is it important to thank God for our city? How should we view the people and the city in which we live? Enemies, friends, confidants, coworkers?