Untitled Sermon (4)

Built on the Living Stone: Our Identity in Christ

Bible Passage: 1 Peter 2:4–12

Summary: This passage describes Christ as the Living Stone and emphasizes the identity of believers as living stones being built into a spiritual house, highlighting the call to reflect God's glory through our lifestyles.

Application: This sermon calls Christians to embrace their identity in Christ, encouraging them to live in a way that reflects their status as God's chosen people, even amidst challenges and societal pressures.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that being part of God's spiritual house requires us to live holy lives that proclaim His greatness, acknowledging that our identity derives from Christ as the foundational Living Stone.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout Scripture, Christ is the Living Stone, rejected by men but chosen by God. This theme connects to the foundation of faith where all believers find their true purpose and identity rooted in Him.

Big Idea: As living stones, we are called to reflect God's glory and serve His purposes, grounded in the identity given to us by Jesus, the Living Stone.

Recommended Study: Consider exploring the historical and cultural context of Peter's audience by using your Logos library for insights into how the metaphor of stones applies to the early church. You may also want to review commentaries that address the implications of believers being a 'royal priesthood' and any nuances in translation regarding 'chosen people,' as these insights can enhance your understanding and application for today's audience.

1. Pursue Your Place

1 Peter 2:4-5

Perhaps you could explore how coming to Jesus, the Living Stone, means we also become living stones with a purpose. We are not isolated but are part of a spiritual house, which calls us to live in community and unity with other believers. Discuss how our identity and foundation in Christ enable us to offer spiritual sacrifices and serve God and others in the body of Christ.

2. Place Your Faith

1 Peter 2:6-8

Maybe consider contrasting the responses to Jesus, the cornerstone—some see Him as precious, while others dismiss Him. This contrast encourages reflection on our personal response to Christ. Faith in Jesus as the Living Stone assures believers are honored and not put to shame. Encourage the congregation to firmly stand on this cornerstone, finding their worth and direction from Christ.

3. Proclaim Your Purpose

1 Peter 2:9-10

You could highlight the unique identity Christians hold as a 'chosen people,' encouraging the congregation to embrace and express this identity. Stress how being God's royal priesthood and holy nation compels us to declare His praises to the world. Delve into the transformed status from 'not a people' to 'God's people,' emphasizing the mercy received and the mission of proclaiming His light.

4. Partake in Purity

1 Peter 2:11-12

Consider discussing the contrast between living as 'aliens and strangers' in the world and the need to maintain holiness amid worldly pressures. Examine how living honorable lives among unbelievers can lead to opportunities for witness and glorifying God. Highlight practical ways to abstain from sinful desires and live in alignment with our calling as children of light who reveal God's character.