Introduction: 1. The Bible is God’s directive for man. 2. The Christian must use the Bible for growth and spiritual develop-ment. His desire is to live for the Lord according to the directions of the Lord. 3. 1 Peter 1:22-2:3. I. Appreciation for the Bible. A. Peter characterizes the Bible as alive (Heb. 4:12), eternal (1 Pet. 1:23, 25) this is the idea of being enduring, incorruptible (verse 23), powerful (verse 23) Rom. 1:16. B. Reveals various names for the Bible. 1. The word (verse 25) means-specific statements by which his word is communicated. 2. Word of God (verse 23) the source (2 Tim. 3:16, 17). 3. Gospel (verse 25) good news (1 Cor. 15:1-4). 4. Truth-complete authority in doctrine, morals, attitude, behavior (verse 22). C. Blessings that come our way. 1. New birth (Ja. 1:18; 1 Cor. 4:15). 2. Spiritual purification (verse 22). Deceived (Acts 23:1), dominated (Jn. 8:34; 2 Pet. 2:19), resulting in spiritual death (Ja. 1:15). But God forgives (Eph. 4:32), justifies (Rom. 3:26), makes us free (Rom. 6:16-18), reconciles us (Rom. 5:8-10). 3. Spiritual maturation. It is a process whereby we a) Separate ourselves from antagonist (1Pet. 2:1). Malice-wants to hurt others (Rom. 1:29). Guile-deceit, dishonest (Ps. 32:2), hypocrisies-pretend. Envy-resent others good fortune. Evil speaking-defaming ones character (Ja. 4:11). B) Develop a love for the brethren (Jn. 13:34, 35; 1 Jn. 4:7-11). C) Proper diet (2 Tim. 2:15). II. My responsibility to the Bible. A. Desire-craves as one craves food (Mt. 5:6; Ps. 1:1-2). Hunger for the next bite. B. Be a serious student-meditate on the scriptures day and night (2:2; 2 Tim. 2:15; Ps. 119:97, 148). Christians must continue to feast on the word of God (1 Cor. 3:1-3; Heb. 5:12f.). C. Tells others>preach it (1 Pet. 4:6; Mk. 16:15; 2 Tim. 4:2; Rom. 10:15). There is a message true and glad for the sinful and the sad. D. Obey it (verse 22) (1 Pet. 4:17; Mt. 7:21-27; Ja. 1:22-25). The only way we can enjoy the blessing of the Bible is to submit to it.
Entered on 3/16/2008
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