1Peter: Living HopeHandling Suffering: 1Peter 1:1-12July 26, 2015Please turn to 1Peter 1:1-12Michael’s personal goal: With the assurances of God’s promise, I will greatly rejoice amidst life’s strugglesAuthor: Simon Peter (Cephus) with the help of Silvanus (Silas: see 5:12)Audience: dispersed and persecuted believers in Asia Minor“God’s Elect” (V 2) 1.Chosen according to the ” foreknowledge of God” the Father2.Chosen through sanctifying work of the Spirit 3.Chosen to be obedient to Jesus Christ“Sprinkling of blood” (V 2): Points to blood applications in the Old Testament that foreshadow salvation through Christ1.We are sinners in need of cleansing 2.We are now in blood-sealed covenant relationship with God3.We are now set apart for God’s service App: How is your obedience to Jesus? 1.A Living Hope (V 3-5)a)We have a permanent inheritance (V 4)b)We are kept by the power of God (V 5)2.We Greatly RejoiceFour things about trials (V 6-7)They’re out of our controlThey’re grievous, distressing, not easy…like going through a fireThey’re varied. They come in all shapes and sizesThey prove the genuineness of our faith. (thud or sing).a)We’re among those who have not seen, yet believe (V 8. ref. John 20:25-29)b)We have a guaranteed deliverance (V 9)What is God’s Spirit speaking into your life today? How must you respond?