Hope In Adversity

Series:Scattered

Hope in Adversity

I Peter 1:1-9

the author       Simon Peter:  a discipleof Jesus, a leader of the early church

the audience     Believers facing growing persecution   

the message     Wherever they are and whatever they are going through, Christians have hopethat directs them. 

CHRISTIAN HOPE 

Christian hope is rooted in our identity--we are God’s People.  (1-2)

chosen, dispersed exiles         

·     You are strange(rs).

·     You are scattered.

·     You are special to God.

Christian hope is completely dependent upon the resurrection of Christ.  (3)   

Because of the resurrection of Christ, Christian hope cannot be extinguished. 

Christian hope is fueled by a belief that hardship is temporaryand reward is eternal.   (4-5)

Christians believe griefand joycan be experienced at the same time.  

Christian hope sees purpose in hardships.   (6-7)

·      Trials reveal the areas where someone doesn’t trust God. 

·      Trials reveal if a person loves God’s giftsmore than he loves God. 

·      Trials build the strengthof one’s faith.

Christian hope is sustained by the reality of His presence.    (8-9)

Today’s Takeaway: 

Surrender your lifeto Christ--lasting hope only comes through faith.  

Without heaven, all hope will disappoint.  Remember, this world is not your eternal home.  

Learn the lessonsof hardship.   

Lean into Jesusin hardship.  His presence will bring you joy and increase your hope.