EXILES | LIVING AS OUTSIDERS FOR GOD'S KINGDOM

This week Brian opens 1 Peter's roadmap for living as exiles in a resistant world. Following Jesus creates real friction, new convictions, and relational pressure, and that tension is not a sign something is wrong. Using Peter's own story of cowardice turned courage through the resurrection, Brian challenges the church not to shrink back into a quiet, privatized faith. Instead, Peter's first instruction is to praise God. In the middle of suffering and loss, the Christian response is Hallelujah, anchored in God's mercy, the new birth we've been given, and the inheritance kept secure in heaven that no one can take away. 

Exiles is a 12-week journey through 1 Peter looking at what it means to follow Jesus in a world where we increasingly feel like outsiders. Rather than seeing this tension as a problem, Scripture shows it is the normal shape of life for those who belong to God’s kingdom. As citizens of the kingdom of God, we are called to witness to His reign in the world through faithful presence, courageous love, and enduring hope. This series invites us to live as a distinct people whose lives point others to Jesus in a world that is not yet restored and made new.

Hope Breaks Into History
1 Peter 1: 3-9

Brian Berger | Pastor of Life Discipleship
5.17.2026