Our service enjoyed opening worship and communion. Pastor continued his series on Living Stones with the second sermon from 1 Peter 2:1-3. Pastor reminded us that the Christ followers’ behavior and beliefs are to be based on God's word.
Verse 2(a): “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk…”
New born infants have strong hunger need. We are to be hungry for the spiritual word. We are to desire something from the Lord. When people are invited to join pyramid sales organizations, one of the key tools is repeated pep talks to feed the excitement.
We are told by Jesus himself: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.” Matthew 5:6.
Why spend resources on things that don't satisfy? We need to seek what truly can satisfy.
Faith comes from hearing the message and hearing the message comes from systematically reading the Bible. Romans 10:17. His Word is what God wants you to hear.
Verse 2(b): “…so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,…”
The Greek word for “Grow” means ‘to attain power’, ‘to bear fruit’. By growing in spiritual power, we can bear fruit for God's kingdom. We are not perfect but we should be growing.
In the book of Galatians, Paul lists nine specific behaviors – love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – that result from the work of the Holy Spirit in a Christian’s life. Galatians 5:22-23. These behaviors help show our faith and show Christ to others. They can lead to spiritual offspring.
God initially encouraged Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply. Genesis 1:22. Pass on the good things that Christ has done for you. Does your behavior show others what it is like to be a Christian?
Verse 3: “now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.” Those who know God by His touch in their lives know by experience that He is Good!
“Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” Psalm 34:8.
The more mature Christian (i.e those who have lived longer) can share their experiences to encourage young believers to trust and know that God is good.
I had several lovely video song choices and decided on this one for today.
To Know and Make Known
A Verse for Today:To Know and Make Known
Matthew 5:6 NIV
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
Lord, please keep me hungry and thirsty for You and Your Word. Show your love through my behaviors.