02/26/2023
UNIT III. God's Call and Its Responsibilities
AN IMPORTANT ROLE
π: 1 PETER 2:1--10
π VERSE: You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises to him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
___1 Peter 2:9
TODAY'S BIBLE PASSAGE COVERS THE TOPIC OF GROWING. Peter begins with a list of things to "put down." There were certain things that people have to lay aside if they want to grow: malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of any kind. When believers lay aside these things, then spiritual growth begins. In verse 2, Peter says that as spiritual newborns, God's people are to desire pure spiritual milk, which is God's Word. Therefore, believers in Christ are to "pick up" the Word of God and drink it daily to grow up in God. Spending time with God in God's Word will grow our relationship with God.
Next, Peter reflects on the Living Stone (Jesus) that was rejected by humans--- but Jesus was God's chosen. Everyone who believes in Jesus can claim themselves as living stones in God's kingdom, who together builds God's spiritual house. Jesus is the cornerstone. Jesus becomes a stumbling block to those who disobey the message of God's Word or do not believe. Peter says that those who believe are "chosen," "royal," and "holy" unto God. Finally, Peter says that God's chosen people have been called out of darkness into the light to praise God, to be God's people, and to enjoy the mercy of God! Because we belong to God, Peter reminds us that our purpose is to proclaim our praises to God and announce God's praises to those in our world so that others will comes to God.
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When we were saved, we were considered new born babes in Christ. The stages for growth for our spiritual lives are similar to our human lives. We begin by drinking milk, then we grow old enough to eat solid foods. The "milk" and "meat" are the Word of God. We are all commanded to grow and mature in Christ. Any pathway to spiritual maturity must include reading and focusing on God's Word.
ππ STEPPING OUT!
This week, you are challenged to write how you and other youth can participate with God as kingdom builders. On a separate sheet of paper, write the topics "Outreach," "Evangelism," and "Service." Next to each area of ministry, write one-sentence proposal for a kingdom building activity or action.