Reflecting Christ, Redeeming the Time
A Gospel Transformed Life
Life B-P Church Worship Service, 22nd March 2026
Text: 1 Peter 2:18-25
1. The People called to be different
We are strangers, pilgrims, a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people, lively stones, a spiritual house. (2:4,9,11)
2. The Problem of being different
Unbelievers think us strange (4:4), speak against us as evildoers (2:12, 3:16), mistreat us for doing well (2:20; 3:14), reproach (insult) us for the name of Christ (4:14). But we are to be holy (1:15,16) live honestly (2:12), abstain from fleshy lusts (2:11) submit to state authority and our masters, whether they are good or evil (2:13, 18), be exemplary (2:17), endure unjust suffering (2:19). We are to live as free but not use our freedom as a cloak (covering) for evil (2:16)
3. The Precious corner stone who changes everything
Jesus Christ is the precious corner stone (2:6). He suffered for us (2:21) and bore our sins on the tree (2:24). He has redeemed us with His blood (1:18,19) from our vain (empty, aimless) conversation (lives, conduct) so that we might have salvation (1:9), be returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls (2:25), have a living hope (1:3,21), and an incorruptible, undefiled and unfading inheritance (1:4). Those who believe on Him will not be put to shame. Those who do not will stumble (fall) over it. He is our example (2:21)
4. The Power of the Gospel to change us
We are elected (1:2), caused to be born again (1:3), called (1:15, 21), redeemed (1:18), healed (2:24). We are dead to sins (2:24) that we should (might) live unto righteousness (2:24, 3:18, 4:1-2), that we should (might) follow Christ’s steps (2:21), living to the will of God (4:2). Some visible outcomes of this change are rejoicing in trials (1:6), holy conduct (1:16), putting aside malice, guile hypocrisy, envy, evil speaking (2:1), good works (2:12), patient submission (2:13,18), enduring suffering (2:19,20), righteous living (2:24).
For Reflection
What are the promises for those whom the Gospel has transformed?
