Sermon Notes
- Series context: Peter writes to scattered believers to establish them in believing, direct them in doing, and comfort them in suffering.
- Austin’s challenge: Following Jesus is not about being weird or famous. It is about representing him everywhere we go.
01 · 1 Peter 1:13–17
Dare to be different in our conduct
- Future hope: The “therefore” connects the grace to come at Jesus’ revelation with how believers live today.
- Citizens of heaven: Austin called believers to conduct themselves with hope as citizens of heaven while living responsibly as exiles on earth.
- Holiness: God calls his children to be set apart from former passions and to resemble the character of their heavenly Father.
- Everyday faithfulness: Standing out is not limited to grand moments. God gives small daily opportunities for integrity, purity, honesty, generosity, and hospitality.
Supporting references used in the sermon: 1 Peter 1:13–17; Leviticus 11:44–45.
02 · 1 Peter 1:18–21
Dare to be different in our convictions
- Ransomed: Believers were not redeemed with perishable wealth but with the precious blood of Christ, the spotless Lamb.
- Raised: Jesus was revealed for us, raised from the dead, and given glory so that faith and hope are in God.
- Grace received: God’s favor is not earned by believers. It has been earned for them through Jesus’ finished work on the cross.
Supporting references used in the sermon: 1 Peter 1:18–21; Hebrews 11:1.
03 · 1 Peter 1:22–25
Dare to be different in our calling
- Love like Jesus: Peter calls believers to love one another sincerely, earnestly, and from a pure heart.
- Visible discipleship: Austin connected this calling to Jesus’ command that love for one another identifies his disciples.
- Live by Scripture: The living and abiding Word of God is imperishable and endures forever.
- This week: Identify the person God is calling you to love and take a tangible, sacrificial step toward that person.
Supporting references used in the sermon: 1 Peter 1:22–25; John 13:34–35; John 6:68.
Scripture quotations marked ESV are from the ESV Bible, © 2001 by Crossway. Text Edition: 2025. Used by permission. Permissions. Prepared for this small group from the September 20, 2026 sermon; questions and applications are editorial study material.