1 Peter 5:5-11
Introduction:
1. Writing to a group of Christians facing great challenges to their faith, Peter closed his first epistle with phenomenal assurance to the humble servant of Christ.
2. In these verses, we find the playbook for eternal glory with Jesus.
Discussion:
I. Humble Submission (5:5-6)
A. The first key to victory is submissive attitudes.
B. Three times the call to submission rings out.
1. First, to elders (Hebrews 13:7, 17; Ti. 2:1-6).
2. Then to one another (John 13:1-17; Romans 12:10; Ephesians 4:2; 5:21; Philippians 2:1-4).
3. Ultimately, all done in submission to God (Romans 14:10-11; Philippians 2:9-11).
II. Steadfast Resistance (5:6-9)
A. Such is the only way to defeat the adversary.
B. There are several catalysts to success here:
1. Bowing under God’s mighty hand (vs. 6).
2. Bringing our cares to Him (vs. 7).
3. Keeping our wits about us (vs. 8).
4. Actively resisting the evil one (vs. 9).
III. Assured Victory (6:10-11)
A. Without confidence in battle, morale fails.
B. God’s promised blessings guard against such:
1. Eternal glory (5:10).
2. The fellowship of His Son (1 Corinthians 1:9).
3. His own kingdom and glory (1 Thessalonians 2:12).
4. Eternal life (1 Timothy 6:12).
C. Though we must do our part to obtain these promises (2 Peter 1:3-4), He ensures success.
1. Perfect: lit. mend, repair, make complete
2. Establish: to make stable, render constant
3. Strengthen: to provide vigor
4. Settle: to lay the foundation, to ground.
Conclusion:
1. Every person must do hard things, no exceptions, but we need not do them alone.
2. God called us to His eternal glory, and He will provide our needs to obtain it.
3. All we have to do is submit and resist, and He will take care of the rest.