“Peter’s Passion for Spiritual Maturity” 1 Peter 5:5-14

TRANSCRIPT

Date: October 27, 2024 Author: Wayne J. Edwards

A recent survey was conducted of a large group of people, ages 18-94, who claimed to be “born-again” believers. The purpose of this survey was to determine the level of their spiritual maturity. The questionnaire used the physical growth stages from a newborn to a grandparent to illustrate the spiritual growth from a new Christian who is dependent upon others for their spiritual development to a grandparent who is able to stand firm in what he believes and why he believes it and is living it out in his daily life as a witness to others. Nearly 50% of those who surveyed had not progressed past the “Infant” stage of Spiritual Growth, and 88% had not graduated from the “Toddler” stage. Only 2% of those surveyed had reached the most mature stage of a spiritual grandparent to other believers, and here is why: 67% said they did not see disciple-making as the highest priority in their lives. Beloved, the time is now. When the persecution of Christians in America begins in earnest, 98% of those who claim to be true believers will not have the spiritual maturity to stand firm in their faith. This is not a distant threat, but a reality that we must prepare for today. This Sunday, we will conclude our study of Peter’s first epistle. The title of this sermon is: “A Living Hope – Preparing for Persecution – “Peter’s Passion for Spiritual Maturity.” We want to express our deep gratitude for your participation in sharing these sermon study guides with those you believe might be interested. Your involvement is not only appreciated but vital to our Live Stream Ministry. We genuinely appreciate your help and value your contributions. Your insights and comments are not just read, but cherished as they enrich our community.

A recent survey was conducted of a large group of people, ages 18-94, who claimed to be “born-again” believers. The purpose of this survey was to determine the level of their spiritual maturity. The questionnaire used the physical growth stages from a newborn to a grandparent to illustrate the spiritual growth from a new Christian who is dependent upon others for their spiritual development to a grandparent who is able to stand firm in what he believes and why he believes it and is living it out in his daily life as a witness to others.

Nearly 50% of those who surveyed had not progressed past the “Infant” stage of Spiritual Growth, and 88% had not graduated from the “Toddler” stage. Only 2% of those surveyed had reached the most mature stage of a spiritual grandparent to other believers, and here is why: 67% said they did not see disciple-making as the highest priority in their lives.

Beloved, the time is now. When the persecution of Christians in America begins in earnest, 98% of those who claim to be true believers will not have the spiritual maturity to stand firm in their faith. This is not a distant threat, but a reality that we must prepare for today.

This Sunday, we will conclude our study of Peter’s first epistle. The title of this sermon is: “A Living Hope – Preparing for Persecution – “Peter’s Passion for Spiritual Maturity.”

We want to express our deep gratitude for your participation in sharing these sermon study guides with those you believe might be interested. Your involvement is not only appreciated but vital to our Live Stream Ministry. We genuinely appreciate your help and value your contributions. Your insights and comments are not just read, but cherished as they enrich our community.

Download the following translated Sermon guides:

Old Testament Reading: Joshua 1:1-9 New Testament Reading: Colossians 2:1-10

The timeless truth of the Apostle Peter’s first epistle to Christians in the 1st century who were severely persecuted for their faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord is the only way to prepare for spiritual persecution is to become spiritually mature.

If Christians in the 21st Century are to survive spiritually in this Anti-Christian environment, it will require us to:

Christians who accept this challenge will begin by establishing a “ Biblical World View,” a lens through which they can examine the various issues of life, and discern God’s purpose for allowing them, thereby gaining a clearer understanding of their spiritual journey and the trials they face.

The Greek word for submit is hupotasso , which means to be under authority!

Whatever authority God has placed over us is the method by which He will conform us to the image of Jesus Christ.

Casting means to “throw,” like a rider would throw a blanket on a horse.

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