Living a Holy Life: Loving Each Other

Introduction

Peter is writing to churches in Eastern Europe and Western Middle East preparing them for the persecution that has started and about to become severe.

Week 1- Be holy because of our eternal hope

Week 2- Submit to authorities

Week 3- Have a holy marriage

Today- Love each other

I Peter 4:7-11 (1223)

We know where history is headed because the end is near (approaching)

Be alert=to think and live wisely in self-control over one's passions and desires

to get self-control ⇔ sober up v. — to curb the controlling influence of inordinate emotions or desires (and therefore become reasonable)

Again, do not hinder your connection by being the opposite

Here is what that looks like in your relationship with each other:

I. Love deeply (8-9)

Explanation: Followers of Jesus must stop focusing on what separates them and start focusing on what unites them

deeply= care and persistent effort

cover=to hide v. — to prevent something, including oneself, from being seen or discovered.

multitude= plethos- from which we get our word plethora

hospitality=

hospitable adj. — disposed to treat guests and strangers with cordiality and generosity.

grumble= to mutter under your breathe

Illustration: YouTube videos attacking preachers/Politics/

Application: We should be known by our love

II. We should use our gifts to serve

Explanation: Peter reminds them that they were engifted for the benefit of the whole

serve= diakeneo- serve (deacon)

Illustration: Tom Brady as a lineman

Application: God has entrusted you with Spiritual gifts to edify the body

Conclusion- The whole point of doing this to bring glory to God

Gospel- The greatest act of love ever!