An Important Note To Students And Teachers
This material is the third quarter adult study on the theme of the importance of people to God. It continues the emphasis of the first two quarters. This is the thesis of the series: When Christians understand how valuable people are to God, they (as God's people) will look at themselves and all people differently. That includes people in the church and out of the church. That includes people regardless of their background. That includes all people regardless of the mistakes they have made in the past or the focus of their lives in the past.
Helping people who are quite different from ourselves requires (1) adjustments as we seek to be helpful and (2) learning how to effectively communicate with those who are different so that they understand God's message and the genuineness of our interest in them as persons.
It is essential for Christians to understand the importance of people to God (1) if we are to be appropriately evangelistic and (2) if we are to approach problems among Christians correctly. Christians cannot merely dismiss those who are outside of Christ nor dismiss Christians they do not like.
In this quarter, it is important to note that the material was originally addressed to Christians. As the first century moved toward its conclusion, in some places it became increasingly difficult to continue Christian commitment and focus. Peter in his two writings encouraged Christians to continue as Christians.
Consider the introductions in both books:
(1 Peter 1:1, 2) Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure.
(2 Peter 1:1, 2 ) Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord...
In 1 Peter the focus is on (1) who they are, and (2) how do people like them endure suffering? In 2 Peter (1) he reminds them of who they are, and (2) reminds them of the fact that God's people always had discouragers among them.
In both books, the message is similar: Christians endure in hostile environments because of their relationship with a patient, caring God. It is essential that Christians see the caring, patient characteristics of God. It is also essential that Christians understand that suffering and discouragement are often a part of commitment to Jesus Christ.
Even when there is suffering and discouragement, the importance of people to God is evident.
