Introduction: 1. Living for Jesus is not easy-we need help. 2. We face a great many challenges from others. We should not have to face those same challenges from our brethren. 3. Peter tells how Christians are to help their fellow Christians. 4. 1 Pet. 3:8-12. I. Unity (verse 8). A. We are to be of one mind, harmony, same think. B. God expects believers to maintain their commitment (Rom. 12:16; 1 Cor. 12:12; Phil. 1:27). He wants internal unity in each congregation (1 Cor. 1:10). C. Note: John 17:20, 21. Christ died for unity (Eph. 2:13, 14). D. Application: Many soldiers today are killed by “friendly fire”. The same is true in the church today. II. Compassion/mutual interest (verse 8). A. Compassion-sympathetic, sharing the same feelings (throw ourselves into the concerns/needs of a brother. B. Like Jesus (Heb. 4:15; Mt. 9:36), and God (Ps. 86:15). C. Sensitive to the joys and pains of others (Rom. 12:15; 1 Cor. 12:26). Even those that we do not know (Heb. 13:3; Mt. 25:34-40). III. Love/family (verse 8). A. Love-people that are kin. The bonds are strong and lasting (Rom. 12:10; 1 Thes. 4:9). B. Characterized by service to others (Acts 20:35; Rom. 14:19). As a family we should be like a tree that gives shelter, rest, relief, encouragement, nourishment. IV. Kindheartedness (verse 8). A. Compassionate-powerful feeling that is deeply affected by the pains of others (2 Cor. 7:15; 1 Thes. 2:8). B. Remember Christ (Mt. 23:37; 19:41, 42). C. Remember the admonition (Eph. 4:32___). D. Oh to have 8 friends that attend our funeral and do not look at their watch the whole time. V. Humble spirit (verse 8). A. An all encompassing virtue. B. Opposite of pride (Prov. 6:16-17). The humble of spirit give of self (Rom. 12:3) to others (Phil. 2:3) VI. Patient and forbearance (verses 9-12). Characterized: A. Don’t retaliate-refuse to get even. Restrain from ugliness (railing-insults). Blessing-“eulogy” (Rom. 12:14; Mt. 5:38-45). B. Control our tongue-speak truth but do not be hurtful (Col. 4:6; Ja. 3:5, 6; Ps. 141:3). C. Seek peace (Rom. 12:18; Ja. 3:18). Seek as a hunter seeks his prey. Conclusion: Results-Happiness of “good days” (1 Pet. 3:10), acceptance of prayers (1 Pet. 3:12), and the blessings of God (1 Pet. 3:9).
Entered on 4/20/2008
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