| |

Resounding Hope: Stewards of God’s Grace

ByRicky Smith

November 15, 2020
Pastor Ricky Smith

Sermon Notes

I. Be on Guard

1 Peter 4:1-3
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

Sin can cripple our walk and our witness

II. Be a Salmon

1 Peter 4:4-6
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.

Living out the Gospel will not go unnoticed

III. Be Ready

1 Peter 4:7-11
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.

How can a Christian prepare for the Lord’s return?
• Exercise self-control
• Commit to prayer
• Focus on others
• Serve

Being ready requires action rather than simply waiting

Next Steps

  • I put my trust in Jesus as my Savior and King.
  • I confess to sin habits in my life and will get help.
  • I commit to carrying hope with urgency.

Deep Dive

  1. Sin can cripple our walk and our witness. Read 1 Peter 4:1-3 and discuss how this is true.
  2. Why is it difficult to go against the norm of culture, even when God expects it?
  3. Share with others what your spiritual gift is and how God can use it?

Springboards

  1. Read Exodus 34:29-35 and discuss what it must have been like for Moses to experience God this way.
  2. Do you think it is alright to question God when we experience difficulties?
  3. 1 Peter 4:19 teaches that suffering is God’s will. How can we celebrate trials?

Similar Posts