A sermon by Pastor Tim Vusik from 1 Peter 1:22-25.

After giving three commands that focus on our lives before God, Peter transitions to another command that addresses our relationships with one another, particularly within the church. This shift moves from the vertical relationship to the horizontal. Although the orientation changes, the subject remains the same.

Big Idea: We love sincerely and fervently because we live purely and eternally.

1. Love sincerely, for you were purified for a new life of love (22)

A sermon by Pastor Tim Vusik from 1 Peter 1:13-21.

Verse 13 opens with a powerful word: “Therefore.” With that single word, Peter connects two major concepts. In the first twelve verses, Peter discusses the reality of the Gospel in our lives. Now, he aims to show how we are to respond to the Gospel.

Big Idea: Since you're now part of God's family, live in holiness and reverence as you wait for Christ to return.

1. Since you’ve been graced, fix your hope on future glory (13)

A sermon by Pastor Tim Vusik from 1 Peter 1:10-12.

Christians, who receive a new identity in Christ, lose their previous earthly status and benefits, along with their sense of significance. In the eyes of the world, they appear as the most unfortunate and disadvantaged. As Peter concludes his introduction, he reminds them how privileged they are as New Testament saints.

Big Idea: Christian, you are greatly privileged because you have received the complete truth of salvation in Jesus Christ.

1. You Enjoy What the Prophets Prepared (10-12a)

A sermon by Pastor Tim Vusik from 1 Peter 1:6-9.

For the first time, Peter introduces the topic of suffering, which will continue throughout the letter. He acknowledges that life in exile is marked by suffering but reminds his readers that their faith today will lead to final salvation, far greater than all the pain, allowing them to rejoice even now.

Big Idea: Rejoice amid trials because they’re short-lived, God-ordained, and fruit-bearing.

Rejoice while in trials because:

1. All trials are short-lived compared to eternal joy (6)

A sermon by Pastor Tim Vusik from 1 Peter 1:3-5.

Peter is writing to those who are harassed, insulted, and pressured by a sinful culture, encouraging them to recognize something important about God and to declare His praises. Since God is blessed, it is right to bless Him in all circumstances. Peter provides the reasons for this in the following verses.

Big Idea: Praise the Father because He has saved and secured you forever!

1. Bless the Father because He birthed you into His family (3a)

A sermon by Pastor Tim Vusik from 1 Peter 1:1-2.

1 Peter was written to people in a situation similar to ours: not experiencing full-blown persecution but facing harassment, insults, and pressure from a culture and society that hated Christ. Peter wrote to encourage the Christians and to remind them that they possess a living hope in a hopeless land. As he begins to write, the first thing he does is remind them of their status.

Big Idea: Recognize your status as deeply loved by God and deeply loathed by the world.

1. Chosen:  Recognize that God Deeply Loves You

A sermon by Pastor Tim Vusik from Selected Scriptures.

The Bible clearly states that believers belong to one another. Unlike our relationships with unbelievers, Christians have the privilege of fellowshipping with each other, and small groups allow us to do just that.

Big Idea: Life Groups provide a place for deeper fellowship—sharing, caring, and welcoming of one another.

1. A Place to Share Our Common Lives with One Another

A sermon by Pastor Tim Vusik from 1 Timothy 4:6-10.

The concepts of training and discipline are outlined throughout the New Testament. Paul frequently used metaphors of running, boxing, exercising, and laboring to describe the Christian walk. Discipline is a necessary component of our walk with God.

Big Idea: Train by feeding on the gospel, aiming for godliness, and fueled by hope.

1. The Diet of Training: Gospel & Doctrine (6-7a)

A sermon by Pastor Mike Trofimenko from Selected Scriptures.

Our strength in prayer arises from our knowledge of God and His purposes as He reveals Himself in the Scriptures. The starting point in prayer is God’s revelation of who He is and what He is doing.

Big Idea: We pray because our gracious Father offers his help and performs gospel works in response to the prayers of his needy children.

1. We pray because our Father graciously offers his mercy and help

A sermon by guest preacher Greg Reed from Isaiah 42:1-13.

1. The church is commissioned because of the glorious commission of our great Christ.