As We Watch, Let Us Love Life and See Good Days (1 Peter 3:8-12)
Introduction:
1. In Matthew 25:13 the Lord instructed His followers to "watch" for His return. 2. We learn from Matthew 24:44 that He also wants us to "be ready." 3. At that last great day, the resurrection will occur, followed by the judgment. 4. As we watch for the Lord's return, and as we strive to be ready, let us remember the objective mentioned in 1 Peter 3:10 -- "loving life and seeing good days." 5. We can accomplish this by following the instructions given in vs.8-11. Discussion: I. (vs.8) AS WE WATCH, LET US:
A. be "all of one mind" (Romans 12:16) B. have "compassion one of another" (Romans 12:15) C. "love as brethren" (Romans 12:10a) D. "be pitiful" (Ephesians 4:32) E. "be courteous" (Philippians 2:3-4). II. (vs.9) AS WE WATCH, LET US AVOID RENDERING "EVIL FOR EVIL, OR RAILING FOR RAILING"
A. The Lord set the example for us to follow (1 Peter 2:21-23). B. Those who do so will "inherit a blessing." III. (vs.10) AS WE WATCH, LET US AVOID SINNING WITH OUR TONGUES
A. We are to refrain our tongues "from evil" (1 Peter 2:1). B. We are to refrain from speaking "guile" [deceit]. IV. (vs.11) AS WE WATCH, LET US:
A. "eschew [turn away from] evil, and do good" 1. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 2. Galatians 6:10 B. "seek peace, and ensue it" (Romans 12:18). Conclusion:
1. Following these instructions will enable us to "love life, and see good days" -- this is a worthy objective to accomplish as we watch for the Lord's return. 2. Let us also remember the information given in 1 Peter 3:12. a. The Lord is present to help those who follow these instructions. b. His face is against those who do evil.
