I Peter 1:3-12

I read about a person who admits to being a great sports fan, describing the process he follows to watch sporting events on TV that he misses while at work. He tapes the event, then when he gets home, he rewinds the tape partway to see what the outcome is. If his team loses, he does nothing more with the tape. If they win, he rewinds to the beginning and watches the entire game. This saves a lot of frustration. Because even when his team is doing poorly, he knows what the outcome is, and it will be okay.

As Christians, we have the same advantage. God, in His loving mercy, has allowed us to know the end of the story; therefore, we can always be confident. The Scripture we study today shows us the nature of the great inheritance God is giving us.

• The basis of this inheritance (I Peter 1:3)
  • Its origin
    • It comes from God’s abundant mercy
    • It is not given according to what we work for
  • Its foundation
    • God’s work – He has begotten us again
    • The resurrection of Jesus
      • Gives us hope
• The blessing of this inheritance (I Peter 1:4)
  • The inheritance affects both the present and the future
    • It is indestructible (incorruptible)
      • It will never perish
        • Earthly inheritances can be spent, destroyed, or stolen
    • It is undefiled (unadulterated)
    • It is unfading
      • Does not lose its beauty or value
    • It is reserved (I Peter 1:5)
      • It is in a safe place

Having looked at the nature of our inheritance, we should:

• be thankful for a compassionate God
• value what God has given us
• do nothing to detract from it
• remain true and steadfast in our relation to God