"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 1:3-7

Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, believers are entitled to a lively hope, a protected/empowered faith and resounding joy.

By virtue of the life, death and resurrection of Christ:

1. Living Hope (v.3)

“As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:4-5

“...remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 1:3

“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58

2. Faith (v.5) which is protected by the power of God

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 (Protected)

“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence…” 2 Peter 1:3 (Power)

3. Greatly Rejoice (v. 6)

“A little while”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Why does the living Hope lead to Christian endurance? (I Peter 1:3)

2. What did Martin Luther (1483-1546) discover regarding faith and Romans 1:17?

“For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’ For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’” (To become righteous vs. to declare; or regard as righteous by virtue of the work of Christ alone.)

3. Why is it important for our happiness and health to look at the cross 25 times, and to our brokenness for sin 1 time?

4. What does the understanding of trials, “for a little while”, lead to joy?

5. Is it possible to tap into the inheritance of the believer now, today? (1 Peter 2:3, Psalm 34:8)