Religious Reformation (Amos 5:21-27)
Introduction Amos’ judgment > lament. Moral Reformation > Religious Reformation. They possessed no moral character and looked forward to the Day of the Lord assuming it would favor them. Had they lost their salvation? Alec Motyer But to whom was Amos speaking? Even the most casual reading of his book reveals his hearers as a church which had confused assurance with complacency. They not only professed salvation but also an unworried certainty of salvation (cf. 5:14, 18). Their lifestyles as…
The Courage of an Exemplary Wife (1 Peter 3:5-6)
Introduction Peter’s instruction to wives and husbands falls within a section (2:11-3:16) of exhortation to live lives that compliments Christianity in a pagan culture. Christian citizens and servants were to respect authorities (2:14-20). Likewise, wives are to respect their husbands (3:1-6). Read 1 Peter 3:1-7 The pattern of Peter’s exhortation: Reverence For God > Submission to Husband (1-2). Beauty Before God (Affirmation) > Adorning with a gentle and quiet spirit (3-4). Hope In God > Obedience, respect, doing good, and…
Moral Reformation (Amos 5:14-20)
Introduction Amos’ scathing judgment has climaxed into a lament. Last week we saw that a person void of moral transformation lacks the experience of true faith. Seeking the Lord involves living for the Lord. That means we recognize who He is and what duty He requires of us. WSC Q. What do the Scriptures principally teach? A. The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God and what duty God requires of man. To know God is to…
The Character of an Exemplary Wife (1 Peter 3:3-4)
Introduction Entire section (2:11-3:16) about living a life that compliments Christianity in a pagan culture. Civil authorities (2:14-17) and servants (2:18-20). Christ’s suffering (2:21-25) serves as the foundation for all of this exhortation. Read 1 Peter 3:1-7 Mother’s Day. What do we cherish most about our mothers? Isn’t it the way they have devote their lives to loving us? We treasure not their looks, but their character! Peter exhorts women to focus on their internal character rather than what the…
The Great Transformer (Amos 5:6-13)
Introduction Amos’ scathing judgment has climaxed into a lament. Bethel (6-13) Jacob (Gen. 28:10-22; 35:1-15). Represented a place where God’s presence and calling were uniquely felt. Genuine experience of God’s transforming power. Beersheba (14-20) Abraham (Gen. 26:23-24), Jacob (Gen. 46:1-4). Each received assurance that God was with them. Gilgal (21-27) Joshua 4:19, first encampment after entering the Promised Land. Covenant renewal – circumcision and Passover (5:2-12). Saul crowned (1 Sam. 11:14-15). Represented a place of religious ceremony. Read Amos 5:6-13…
The Conduct of an Exemplary Wife (1 Peter 3:1-2)
Introduction Entire section (2:11-3:16) about living a life that compliments Christianity in a pagan culture. Civil authorities were assumed to be just (2:14). Servants were those specifically serving under unjust masters (2:18). While the example of Christ’s suffering (2:21-25) serves as the foundation for all of this exhortation, nothing suggests Peter is equating all civil authorities, masters, and unbelieving husbands with those who crucified Jesus. Read 1 Peter 3:1-7 “Likewise” > 2:18 re: servants. Same instruction to “be subject”. Ultimately…
Seek Me and Live (Amos 5:1-5)
Introduction Amos began by declaring a word of judgment over the nations that surrounded Israel. But it didn’t take long for him to turn his focus to Israel (2:4). They were guilty of a shallow religiosity filled with idolatry and hypocrisy. Although, thus far, they have failed to respond to the seven calamities with repentance (4:6-13), maybe the direct message through Amos will get their attention. Read Amos 5:1-5 His prophecy has been building and it culminates with lamentation. The…
Suffering With Christ (1 Peter 2:21-25)
Introduction Last week, Ray did an excellent job reviewing this section (2:13-3:7). The blessings we receive, through union with Christ and other believers, impact us at the most basic levels. However, pagan household codes did not provide instructions regarding suffering. Read 1 Peter 2:21-25 The Holy Spirit, speaking through Peter, had something important to communicate to the Church Universal. This passage answers the question: How did Christ suffer? And to what end did he suffer? The way we suffer as…
