Stand Firm in the True Grace of God

Text: 1 Peter 5:12

Grace is a misunderstood topic among many in the religious world. Peter says his first epistle is a summary of “the true grace of God.” What is the true grace of God? We’ll notice some of the things Peter includes in this category in this lesson.

We Have Been Chosen (1 Peter 1:1-2)

According to God’s foreknowledge, not foreordination – God did not preselect certain individuals for salvation
He predestined those of a certain character (Ephesians 1:4-5) – we must choose to be among this number
We are redeemed by the blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19) – defining action of God’s grace (Romans 5:6-8)

We Must Be Born Again (1 Peter 1:3)

Jesus told Nicodemus the same thing (John 3:3,5) – water is involved in this
Obedience to the truth (1 Peter 1:22-23) – this is how we purify our souls
Baptism saves you (1 Peter 3:21) – salvation is by grace (Ephesians 2:8), but baptism is a condition of grace

We Have an Inheritance (1 Peter 1:4)

Better than anything in this life (Matthew 16:26)
Therefore, lay up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21)

Be Holy as God is Holy (1 Peter 1:13-16)

“Fix your hope on the grace to be brought… As obedient children…” – grace & obedience are connected
Follow the example of Christ (1 Peter 2:21-22) – sinlessness is the goal
Abstain from fleshly lusts (1 Peter 2:11-12)
Time to carry out the desire of the Gentiles is past (1 Peter 4:1-3) – be like Christ; cease from sin; time now to carry out the will of God

Grow in the Lord (1 Peter 2:1-2)

Begin with milk of the word – proceed to meat of the word (Hebrews 5:13-14)
Do not be content in whatever state you are in – continue to grow (2 Peter 3:18)

Teach Others (1 Peter 3:15)

Be ready always – requires study (2 Timothy 2:15) & ability to say the right thing (Colossians 4:6)
Speak as the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:11)
Speak even in the face of persecution (1 Peter 3:13-14)

Endure Suffering (1 Peter 4:12-16)