1. This morning we studied passages that relate to "goodness" [the 6th of 9 characteristics that make up the fruit of the Spirit -- Galatians 5:22-23]. 2. This evening we are turning our attention to God's goodness. 3. In Romans 11:22 we are told to behold God's goodness and His severity. 4. God has demonstrated His severity many times toward those who fell. a. He will also demonstrate His severity toward those who do not continue in His goodness. b. We learn from Hebrews 10:31 that "it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." 5. To receive God's goodness we must "continue in His goodness." 6. To help us continue in God's goodness, we are studying the instructions found in 1 Peter 3:8-12. 7. As a result of our study I hope we will adopt this philosophy: "Let us continue in God's goodness."
Discussion:
I. (vs.8-11) INSTRUCTIONS RELATING TO GOD'S GOODNESS
A. Vs.8 1. "Finally" indicates that this information is a summary statement. a. Instructions have just been given to servants, wives, and husbands. b. Beginning at vs.8, some important instructions are given to all Christians. 2. God wants Christians to: a. "be all of one mind" [harmonious -- Philippians 2:2] b. "have compassion one of another" [sympathetic -- Romans 12:15] c. "love as brethren" (Romans 12:10a) d. "be pitiful" [tenderhearted -- Ephesians 4:32] e. "be courteous" [humble -- Philippians 2:3-4]. B. (vs.9) God wants Christians to avoid retaliation [taking vengeance personally -- Romans 12:14, 17a]. 1. Christ is our example (1 Peter 2:21, 23). 2. (1 Peter 3:9b) We are shown why retaliation must be avoided. C. (vs.10) God wants Christians to avoid sinning with the tongue. 1. Evil speaking is mentioned (see 2:1). 2. Guile is also mentioned (see 2:21-22). D. (vs.11) God wants Christians to: 1. turn away from evil and do good (Romans 12:9b) 2. seek peace and pursue it (Romans 12:18).
II. (vs.12) WHY WE MUST FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS
A. Following these instructions will help us to be righteous. B. Those who are righteous enjoy great blessings. 1. The Lord's eyes are over the righteous. 2. The Lord hears the prayers of the righteous. C. Those who do evil are not righteous -- the Lord's face is against them.
Conclusion:
1. In Romans 11:22 we are taught to continue in God's goodness and why we must do so. 2. In 1 Peter 3:8-12 we are taught how to continue in God's goodness and why we must do so. 3. "Let us continue in God's goodness."
