Sermons

FOLLOWERS

There are drastic changes in the lives of all followers of Christ

(1 Peter 4:1-6) Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same resolve – because the one who suffered in the flesh has finished with sin – in order to live the remaining time in the flesh, no longer for human desires, but for God’s will. For there has already been enough time spent in doing the will of the pagans; carrying on in unrestrained behavior, evil desires, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and lawless idolatry. In regard to this, they are surprised that you don’t plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation – and they slander you. They will give an account to the One who stands ready to judge the living and the dead. For this reason, the gospel was also preached to those who are now dead, so that, although they might be judged by men in the fleshly realm, they might live by God in the spiritual realm.

1. Start Following GOD’S Will
(1-2) Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same resolve – because the one who suffered in the flesh has finished with sin – in order to live the remaining time in the flesh, no longer for human desires, but for God’s will.

A. Our natural tendency in life is to run away from all forms of suffering.
B. And to create for ourselves a lifestyle of pleasure and comfort.
C. Our pursuit of pleasure and comfort can quickly become sinful (“human desires”).
D. Suffering keeps us in a healthy balance so we can better follow God’s will.

(1-2) Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same resolve – because the one who suffered in the flesh has finished with sin – in order to live the remaining time in the flesh, no longer for human desires, but for God’s will.

2. Stop Following MEN’S Will
(3) For there has already been enough time spent in doing the will of the pagans: carrying on in unrestrained behavior, evil desires, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and lawless idolatry.

• “Unrestrained behavior, evil desires” – sexual sins.
• “Drunkenness, orgies, carousing” – social drinking parties.
• “Lawless idolatry” – unholy and profane lifestyles.

A. You have wasted enough time on that kind of lifestyle – give it up.
(4) In regard to this, they are surprised that you don’t plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation – and they slander you.
B. When you do give it up, culture will be offended, and attack you.

3. Keep Following Toward TOMORROW
(5-6) They will give an account to the One who stands ready to judge the living and the dead. For this reason the gospel was also preached to those who are now dead, so that, although they might be judged by men in the fleshly realm, they might live by God in the spiritual realm.

A. “There’s going to be a Payday Someday”
B. Christ followers die in the fleshly realm – but continue living in the spiritual realm.