Chapter 1 v 1 - 2

Who wrote '1 Peter'?
For Christians this appears a silly question but Bible critics whose determination to cast doubt wherever they can would have us believe other than the obvious answer.
In this introduction Ian explains why the answer is important and refers us
to '2 Peter Chapter 3 v 16'
"untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures."

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th Apr 2014

(1) Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To the pilgrims of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,

Chapter 1 v 1 - 2

Where was Peter and why did he write?
The written word is 'Babylon' which some interpret as a pseudonym for Rome. Does it matter?
Ian explains, "To the pilgrims of the Dispersion" and that all Christians will one day return home. In our ungodly society we are all living in Babylon.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th Apr 2014

(2) elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied.

Chapter 1 v 1 - 2

Salvation.
We are to ask ourselves, "How did I become a Christian?"
Was it a decision of our human will or was it an act of God?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th Apr 2014

(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

Chapter 1 v 1 - 2

Election and Grace.
Continuing from last week, Ian Biblically demonstrates that we are elected by God but not because of anything we have done or will do by way of our works.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 4th May 2014

(4) to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,

Chapter 1 v 3 - 5

Obtaining His Inheritance.
When we talk of inheritance we usually associate it with a death. Ian explains that although an inheritance has been promised it could be lost for various reasons.
What does the Apostle Paul mean when he says, "an inheritance . . . that does not fade away"?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 18th May 2014

(5) who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

Chapter 1 v 3 - 5

Our inheritance kept in Heaven for us.
What is our inheritance yet to come? Ian explains and recommends we read the conversation between Christian and Pliable in Bunyan's 'Pilgrims Progress' where Christian summarises it well.
We are referred to Revelation Chapters 21 to 22 verse 6.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 25th May 2014

(6) In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials,

Chapter 1 v 1 - 9

Saving Faith.
The Bible tells us that through faith our inheritance is incorruptible and it does not fade away. Why then do some ask if they lose their faith do they lose their inheritance?
Ian talks about faith and the persecution of Christians citing the case of Meriam who faces 100 lashes followed by the death sentence in Sudan.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th June 2014

(7) that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,

Chapter 1 v 8

Love one has for Christ.
How can we love someone not seen? Is it an emotional love? Is our belief purely intellectual?
Ian answers these questions to show that the truth of Jesus Christ is provable and verifiable.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th June 2014

(8) whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,

Chapter 1 v 8 - 9

The Christian believer has a genuine joy.
Most people are "grieved by various trials" and being a Christian often brings additional trials and persecution but unlike the non-believer who is only happy when things are going well the Christian has an inner joy at all times.
Ian gives biblical examples of rejoicing under difficult and deadly circumstances.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd June 2014

(9) receiving the end of your faith - the salvation of your souls.

Chapter 1 v 10 - 12

They wanted to know what we CAN know today.
The bible informs of Jesus from the start of Genesis and the prophets diligently searched the scriptures, ie. the Old Testament so that they could know as much as possible about the Messiah. Knowledge is incomplete without the New Testament.
We live in a time when we CAN know what they wanted to know.
There are those who read only the New Testament and they too have incomplete knowledge as both Old and New compliment each other.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 29th June 2014

(10) Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you,
(11) searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow.

Chapter 1 v 13 - 16

Ian explains what it means to "gird up the loins of your mind" and why we should do it.
Jesus said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." We are to set our sights on our treasure that is to come and not on the things of this world.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th July 2014

(12) To them it was revealed that, not to themselves, but to us they were ministering the things which now have been reported to you through those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven - things which angels desire to look into.

Chapter 1 v 15 - 16

Be Holy.
What is Holiness and what does it mean to be Holy?
Since the fall of Adam we have all been born unholy and with a sinning nature.
Ian describes how the Holy Spirit brings awareness and how the Ten Commandments are viewed by both believers and the unsaved.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th July 2014

(13) Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
(14) as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance;

Chapter 1 v 14 - 16

Call to personal practical Holiness.
The morals and behaviour of every individual is based upon their beliefs. We are urged to ensure that our beliefs and therefore our actions are according to God's word.
God knows what is good for us and Ian examines, 'we are what we eat' in a spiritual sense.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th July 2014

(15) but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
(16) because it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy."

Chapter 1 v 17

Our God and Father.
We can talk directly to our God and Father. The same God and Father of Jesus Christ.
He is infinitely kind and loving but also righteous and just.
Ian explains what it means to be judged "without partiality".

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th July 2014

(17) And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear;

Chapter 1 v 18 - 21

Redemption from slavery.
To be redeemed is to be set free. What are we redeemed from?
All people are slaves either of sin or of righteousness.
God is the master of believers and without Him life is meaningless.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 3rd Aug 2014

(18) knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers,
(19) but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

Chapter 1 v 18 - 21

Jesus the Lamb of God.
Ian describes 'Passover' when the believers were saved from their slavery in Egypt by the slaughter and shedding of blood of a perfect and unblemished lamb.
This event points to the death and blood of Christ necessary to save us from our slavery to sin.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 10th Aug 2014

(20) He indeed was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you
(21) who through Him believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

Chapter 1 v 22 - 25

Being Born Again.
Do we decide to be 'born again' or is it something that happens to us?
Why did Jesus say it must happen and what is the result of the experience?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th Aug 2014

(22) Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart,

Chapter 1 v 22 - Chapter 2 v 2

Death and Sin.
Our sinning nature is in us at birth and from that moment we are all dying with 10/10 certainty. Anti-aging creams and cosmetic surgery cannot stop this.
"The grass withers, And its flower falls away,"
Why? What happens then?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 7th Sep 2014

(23) having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever,

Chapter 2 v 2 - 3

Food for Growth in Christ.
A newborn baby is a wonderful thing but it isn't meant to stay that way. We know it needs nourishment and has to develop.
So it is with someone who is 'born again'. That in itself is a wonderful thing but as Ian explains we all need to feed continually on the word of God.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 14th Sep 2014

(1) Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking,
(2) as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby,
(3) if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

Chapter 2 v 4 - 10

The Church.
Not an architectural structure but the people of God.
Using the architectural analogy we are all important bricks in the Lord's temple, each having a Holy nature and purpose.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 21st Sep 2014

(4) Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious,

Chapter 2 v 4 - 10

The Church - construction.
Ian continues the architechtural analogy by comparing the building of Solomon's Temple with the building of God's living temple. Each required a plan, funding, quarrymen and rough stones to be cut to shape.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 28th Sep 2014

(5) you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Chapter 2 v 4 - 10

The People of God.
With the emphasis being on the persecution of Christians throughout history to the current barbaric atrocities in the world Ian asks us to be clear in our own minds of where we stand in our relationship with Jesus.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th Oct 2014

(6) Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, "Behold, I lay in Zion A chief cornerstone, elect, precious, And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame."

Chapter 2 v 4 - 10

The Preciousness of God.
By nature we are enemies of God. Why do people reject Jesus and refuse the truth?
What is it about Christ that causes offence when to those who believe, "He is precious"?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th Oct 2014

(7) Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient, "The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone,"

Chapter 2 v 4 - 10

The saved and the unsaved.
The Bible tells believers they are a chosen people, members of God's family by adoption.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 19th Oct 2014

(8) and "A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense." They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.

Chapter 2 v 11

Spirit Soul Body of Sojourner.
Ian describes how we all comprise three parts. Our Spirit can have a relationship with God eternally, our Soul which is our eternal mind, our feelings and emotions with the eyes being our windows on the world, and our temporary 'shell' of a body.
Peter tells us to "abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul". Ian explains that we are to choose to opt out and avoid the idea of 'when in Rome do as the Romans do'.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 2nd Nov 2014

(9) But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;
(10) who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.

Chapter 2 v 11 - 12

Living honourable lifestyles.
The world loves to laugh at Christians and is quick to identify hypocrisy in the church.
Examples are given of the 'fleshly lusts' we are to abstain from and our 'living in the Spirit' is a constant demonstration of genuine Christian belief to others.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 9th Nov 2014

(11) Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul,

Chapter 2 v 13 - 17

Christian and the State.
These verses instruct us to obey the laws of our land but we do not always agree with our government and their representatives.
What are we to do?
Ian explains that our actions should not be about us. We should be asking what we can do to serve and glorify God at the start of each day.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 16th Nov 2014

(12) having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.

Chapter 2 v 18 - 25

Living our lives to glorify God.
Why should we submit to an employer or government that perhaps we don't like?
Because our attitude to our employer and to all work that we do witnesses to others of our Christianity.
"And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men."

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 23rd Nov 2014

(13) Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme,
(14) or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good.

Chapter 2 v 13 - 25

The purpose of suffering for the Christian.
Those who only preach prosperity and happiness are untruthful. The Bible says ALL Christians will suffer. Ian explains why we must all suffer.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 30th Nov 2014

(15) For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men -
(16) as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.

1 Peter Chapter 2 v 21 - 25

Why do Christians get ill?
Christ's death on Calvary reversed the effects of the 'fall' so why do Christians get ill and grow old the same as non-believers? Some are healed by prayer but why not all believers?
Ian delivers a biblical message to all those who are suffering.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 7th Dec 2014

(17) Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.
(18) Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh.

Ian leaves 1 Peter for a couple of weeks as we approach Christmas.
The following three sermons are available on this page so as to maintain chronological order.
14th December was the dedication of baby Nancy.

This text continues
1 Peter Chapter 2

Matthew Chapter 18 v 1 - 11

Importance of Salvation. Christ loves Children.
We have a responsibility to teach children the gospel from an early age. If we don't then Satan will.
The bible tells us that we too should be as children - not as in being childish but with a humble and child-like heart.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 14th Dec 2014

(19) For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully.
(20) For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God.

Matthew Chapter 1 v 1 - 25

The faith of Joseph and Mary
Unlike today's morally loose society things were very different for Joseph and Mary. Ian tells us what it meant to be betrothed and about the covenant between bridegroom and bride.
As an adult Jesus used the same terms and made the same covenant with us His bride. All true believers are his betrothed. He loves us, is preparing a place for us and will come for us at an unspecified time.
Are we ready?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 21st Dec 2014

(21) For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
(22) "Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth";
(23) who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;

Matthew Chapter 1 v 18 - 25

God is watching
Having heard a song on his car radio Ian felt the need to change his planned sermon for this evening and to share with us an examination of the lyrics and the truth that God is watching us - but not from a distance.

The evening sermon preached by Ian on 21st Dec 2014

(24) who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness - by whose stripes you were healed.
(25) For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 1 - 7

Leading the Christian life - The duty of wives and husbands.
The Bible tells us when marriage originated, its purpose and how a man and a woman are meant to relate to each other. This corresponds with the relationship between Christ and His bride.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 28th Dec 2014

(1) Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives,
(2) when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 1 - 7

Leading the Christian life - Being citizens of Heaven.
As citizens of Heaven we are to behave as such. Continuing the comparison between the Jewish betrothal of groom and bride and our relationship with Christ Ian explains how we should always 'wear our veil' to indicate that we are spoken for in a loving relationship.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 4th Jan 2015

(3) Do not let your adornment be merely outward-arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel -
(4) rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 8 - 12

Behaviour within the church community - introduction.
Is 'the church' something we go to - or something we belong to?
The church isn't a building but the people of Christ. The survival of every small segment of the church doesn't depend upon the pastor but on the members of that fellowship. Do we value it? Is it worth fighting for?
When Jesus returns, "will He really find faith on the earth?"

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 11th Jan 2015

(5) For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands,
(6) as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 8 - 12

Behaviour within the church community - being of one mind.
There are many who think of themselves as Christian but when Jesus said, "that they all may be one" He didn't mean for us to put aside doctrine that we didn't agree on so that we could all have 'common ground'.
Ian explains that Christians should be united in the one true gospel.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 18th Jan 2015

(7) Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 8 - 12

Be of the same mind as Christ.
Spiritually 'we are what we eat' and what we believe determines how we act.
We are to grow in the doctrines of Christ and in our Christian love for each other. Jesus said, "love one another as I have loved you". Ian tells us that in disagreement we are to use a spirit of gentleness.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 25th Jan 2015

(8) Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;
(9) not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 8 - 17

Trust in God.
"those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed."
When Christians are falsley accused, pursued and persecuted, do they give up?
When they see unbelievers prospering when they themselves are struggling do they wonder if it is all worth it as Asaph does in Psalm 73?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 1st Feb 2015

(10) For "He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.
(11) Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.
(12) For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 13 - 17

Defending the Faith.
When we are asked why we believe as we do - how do we answer?
Ian gives insight into Christian Apologetics and introduces the topic of how we are able to answer the question and enter discussion with the likes of Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th Feb 2015

(13) And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good?
(14) But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed. "And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled."

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 15

Defending the Faith - part 2.
You don't need to know details of another's beliefs to be able to explain yours.
If you are saved you believe the one saving gospel, you have repented and you have put your faith in Christ.
Ian recommends two books that can help us get the message across to others in that
a) the person must hear the bad news - that they are a sinner deserving of punishment
b) the good news - that our Lord Jesus paid the penalty for all those who repent and put their faith in Him.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th Feb 2015

(15) But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
(16) having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 17 - Ch 4 v 2

The Righteous for the Unrighteous.
Ian explains how Christ suffered more than any other and how such suffering had a purpose. It was the ONLY way we could be reconciled to God.
To be 'in Christ' is to be saved.
Not to be in Christ is to be lost - no matter how 'religious' a person may be.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 1st Mar 2015

(17) For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
(18) For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit,

1 Peter Chapter 3 v 17 - Ch 4 v 6

Who are the 'spirits in prison'?
Ian introduces us to what may be difficult passages for some to understand. Is it that the unrepentant sinner gets a second chance after death? Definitely not.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th Mar 2015

(19) by whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison,

1 Peter Ch. 3 v 17 - Ch 4 v 6 part 2

As it was in the days of Noah.
Ian recommends that you listen to his previous sermon of 15th March before you listen to this.
He continues to give more details of "the spirits in prison".

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd Mar 2015

(20) who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.

1 Peter Ch. 3 v 17 - Ch 4 v 7

What did Christ preach?
Ian makes reference to where apostles quote from sources other than those known to be inspired scripture and reiterates that we are to accept only the quote as inspired and not the whole source.
We learn exactly what it was that Christ preached to the fallen angels in hell.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 29th Mar 2015

(21) There is also an antitype which now saves us - baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

1 Peter Ch. 3 v 18 - Ch 4 v 6

Sin always leads to judgement.
The ark carried eight people through the waters of God's judgement. How are we to be carried through the next judgement?
The example of 'Russian dolls' demonstrates that when He died, was buried and rose again we were and are at all times in Christ. He is our ark.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th April 2015

(22) who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.

1 Peter Ch. 3 v 18 - Ch 4 v 6

Why do the good guys suffer?
Ian examines this often asked question - why is it that Christians have been and still are persecuted?
The bible tells us that we WILL be persecuted but what is it about believers that causes others to want them out of the way?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th April 2015

(1) Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,
(2) that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

1 Peter Chapter 4 v 7 - 11

The end of all things is at hand.
Looking at the world today we know judgement is coming soon. People may argue that there has always been, "lewdness, lusts, drunkeness, revelries, drinking parties and abominable idolatries" but Ian looks at the state of mind accepting and even teaching as 'normal' what is contrary to what God says are abominations.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 19th April 2015

(3) For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles - when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries.
(4) In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you.

1 Peter Chapter 4 v 7

Do you believe the end of all things is at hand?
Most people do not expect 'the end of all things' to happen today but for perhaps 160,000 it will (in their earthly lives).
If you believe you know when, is there anything you will do differently?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 3rd May 2015

(5) They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
(6) For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.

1 Peter Chapter 4 v 7 - 11

With the end of all things at hand we are to be 'serious'.
Does this mean boring, unapproachable and miserable? Not at all. Serious means sober minded and considering of the judgement to come. We aren't seen with silly grin all day long but we are as Peter says, filled with inexpressible joy.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 10th May 2015

(7) But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.
(8) And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins."

1 Peter Chapter 4 v 7 - 11

What does it mean to be 'serious'?
We all have a role in 'ministry' and Ian gives several references to where God has told us we have a diversity of gifts.
Some may preach, some teach, some evangelise, etc. but if our faith is 'serious' we all have our part to play.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th May 2015

(9) Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
(10) As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

1 Peter Chapter 4 v 7 - 19

What should we do to be 'serious'?
Ian compares 'the disease of self interest' with giving glory to God.
Do we glorify God in all that we do and in our prayers? Are we hospitable? Are we loving to others?
Does being loving to others mean we should accept them as they are?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th May 2015

(11) If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter Chapter 4 v 7 - 19

All to the glory of God.
How easy it often is for us to be concerned with self.
Ian looks at the answer to 'what can be done about self?' so that all we do may be to the glory of God.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 31st May 2015

(16) Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.

1 Peter Chapter 4 v 17 - 19

Judgement of believers.
Believers know they are not going to suffer eternal 'gnashing of teeth' in the lake of fire but what judgement does await us?
In answering this Ian poses a hypothetical question, "If God were to say to you,'why should I let you into heaven'? What would you say?"

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 7th June 2015

(17) For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?
. . .

1 Peter Chapter 4 v 19 - Chapter 5 v 7

The purpose of elders.
Ian looks at what it means to be an elder or any leader in the church.
What qualities are required? What traits are seen?
If people were to imitate Peter they would emulate his humility, not his appearance or mannerisms.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 14th June 2015

CHAPTER 5
(1) The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed:
. . .

1 Peter Chapter 5 v 1 - 11

Humility and humbleness.
Such qualities can be mistaken for weakness. The Bible tells us that Moses was the most humble man on the planet. Was he weak?
Christ was the most humble EVER and is our example of how we should be.
Ian looks particularly at verse 7 and how we should approach, "casting all your care upon Him" and the result we can expect.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th July 2015

(6) Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,
(7) casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

1 Peter Chapter 5 v 7 - 11

We all have anxieties and problems but we also know that all things work for God's glory.
Satan knows this too and he will try many ways to bring us down.
Ian gives an example of a watchful soldier to explain the meaning of "Be sober, be vigilant".
Do not be intoxicated with anything that impairs judgement and makes you vulnerable to attack.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th July 2015

(8) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

1 Peter Chapter 5 v 8 - 11

All Christians are targets for Satan's attacks.
How will he attack? He is the 'god of this world' and will use things of this world to trap us. He knows our weaknesses and he knows scripture better than we do. He will quote scripture out of context and plant false doctrines and interpretations in the church.
We should know the capabilities of the enemy.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 26th July 2015

(9) Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.

1 Peter Chapter 5 v 8 - 11

Carnal weapons and intellect are useless against Satan. How are we to 'resist him'?
We cannot stand alone against a spiritual enemy who will give thoughts and ideas to cause doubt. He is out to destroy our faith.
Ian explains we have the 'armour of God' - likened to the essentials of a Roman soldier but all are found in the Bible and are equally essential for us.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 9th August 2015

(9) Resist him, . . .

1 Peter Chapter 5 v 10 - 14

In this concluding sermon on 1 Peter Ian emphasises the "true grace of God".
ALL Christians will suffer persecution of some form as we are not only at odds with the world but with compromising Christians too - those who would 'modify' the gospel to please the world.
Why would anyone want to become a Christian? Verse 13 tells us who WILL become a Christian - the elect.
We don't seek to anger the world or invite persecution but when we are faced with it what do we do? We STAND by the grace of God.
Verses 14 gives us a final reminder that all true Christians love one another.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 16th August 2015

(12) By Silvanus, our faithful brother as I consider him, I have written to you briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand.
(13) She who is in Babylon, elect together with you, greets you; and so does Mark my son.
(14) Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

2 Peter

2 Peter Chapter 1

In this second epistle Peter is writing to believers with a vital message that is relevant to us today. He warns of individuals and churches that have become lukewarm or lost their way.
Many people today ignore the Bible or pick out the parts they like but with scripture it is all or nothing.
How can I be sure I am one of the elect?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 23rd August 2015

2 PETER CHAPTER 1
(1) Simon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 1 - 2

We are reminded of the central position Christ must have in our life despite the problems we all face.
There is only one faith which Peter calls 'precious'. Is that saving faith precious to you?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 30th August 2015

(2) Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 3 - 4

Becoming like God?
Our purpose is to know God and to continually grow to be more like Him. How are we to do this when surrounded by sin in this world?
Christ said, "I am the light of the world" and He also told us, "You are the light of the world." Christ is our standard.
We are to realise that Peter tells us (v3) we HAVE been given ALL things and not we Will be given. He also tells us (v4) that we HAVE escaped corruption.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th September 2015

(3) as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue,
(4) by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 5 - 7

Verses 2 - 4 told us what God has done for us. Verses 5 - 7 tell us what we as true Christians are to do in 'adding' to our faith.
Ian explains that we are not to 'add' in sequential order but to increase all the seven things mentioned and he uses the furnishing of a house as an example.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th September 2015

(5) But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge,

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 5 - 7

True believers want to add to their faith and they have been given the power to do so.
Ian gives examples of how these additions form our character, our inner disposition and our relationship to others. We are told to love. How are we to love others?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th September 2015

(6) to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness,

(7) to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 8 - 11

Christians know you cannot save yourself, cause yourself to be born again or become a Christian by your own decision but how do you KNOW with certainty that you have eternal life?
There are three ways we are given assurance.
By believing the objective truth from the word of God, the witness of the Holy Spirit who is in our hearts and an observable change in our life.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th September 2015

(8) For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 8 - 11

Saving faith results in action.
We know what Jesus did, He forgave, He washed feet as a servant. What is the point of our knowledge if we take no action?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 4th October 2015

(9) For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 12 - 15

Failure to remind is negligence.
Peter is writing to those who know the gospel yet he reminds them of the important things. In the same way today it is far too easy to allow other things to vie for our attention and in this world of change and a craving for new things we are liable to forget the love and the suffering that has saved us.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 18th October 2015

(12) For this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, though you know and are established in the present truth.
. . .
(15) Moreover I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things after my decease.

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 16 -21

The Christian faith is established on verifiable truths.
Peter reminds believers including us of the undeniable evidence proving exactly who Jesus Christ is. Substantiated by many eye witness accounts and precisely fulfilled prophecy of scripture.
There are many religions founded on just one person's unsubstantiated account - "Cunningly devised fables". Ian gives specific examples and mentions the 'Religion of the masses' based on a belief in a big bang and Darwinian evolution.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 1st Nov 2015

(16) For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty.

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 16 -21

In Verse 16 Peter refers to the second coming of Christ.
Ian suggests reasons as to why this subject is avoided by some preachers despite there being many biblical signs today of the coming tribulation.
If we are true believers - are we ready for the rapture? Is this reflected in our lives?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th Nov 2015

(17) For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory: "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 16 - 21

Ian preaches more on Christ's second coming and in consideration of all the things occuring in the world at this time he makes rederence to the words of Jesus in Luke 21:28
"Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near."

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th Nov 2015

(18) And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.

2 Peter Chapter 1 v 16 - Chapter 3 v 3

In this introduction to Chapter 2 the subject is Biblical prophecy which is always 100% reliable. There will be, and we are to be aware of false prophets and those who would bring false doctrines and teaching into the church.
We are warned that some will be deceived and 'turned aside to fables'. We should understand what is truth and recognise what is error.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd Nov 2015

CHAPTER 2
(1) But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 1 - 3

Continuing his introduction to Chapter 2 Ian again warns us against false teachers many of whom reach out on the internet but also of those who propagate false doctrine by coming in 'under the radar'.
"For of this sort are those who creep into households . . ." 2 Tim 3 v 6
We must weigh not only their words but also their lives.
How do we check for truth? By the word of God.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th December 2015

(2) And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed.

Christmas 2015 - Ian leaves '2 Peter' until 2016

2 Corinthians Chapter 4 v 5 - 6 (morning service)

What is it like to be blind? What if those around you are also blind?
Imagine a world of darkness with the blind leading the blind.
This is the world today - in spiritual blindness. Within man there is an awareness of God but many cannot see God or the way to God or the purpose of life so they imagine their own god.
We are all born spiritually blind but believers see by the grace of God and the light of Christ.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th December 2015

(4) whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.
. . .
ROMANS CHAPTER 3
(11) There is none who understands;
There is none who seeks after God.

2 Corinthians Chapter 4 v 3 - 6 (evening service)

Shepherds - considered in their society as amongst the lowest of the low - sat in darkness.
Why were they so afraid of the angel? Because God sees everything. The angel told them where to find Christ and how to recognise Him. Biblical prophecy tells everyone where to find Him and how to recognise Him.
Peace on earth? Only when man has peace with God will he have peace with his brother.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th December 2015

(6) For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Luke 2 and Matthew 2 (Christmas day)

In these well known passages Ian looks at who was told that Christ was born and what was their response.
How do we respond?
Like Mary, do we 'ponder' - think deeply of what this means?
Like the shepherds and the wise men, having knowledge do we seek Him for ourselves?
Do we, like Anna go and tell everyone the good news?
Like Simeon, can we 'die happy' knowing the saving grace of God?
Do you know anyone like Herod who rejects Christ and wants to be rid of him?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 25th December 2015

LUKE CHAPTER 2
(6) So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered.
(7) And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

1 Chronicles 12 and Romans 13

Almost 2016 but do we know the time? Do we understand the time we are living in?
We need to stop our busy business and think! Ian gives the example of an alarm clock to wake us up and we should be awakened by the alarming things of this world.
Alarms are intended to get our attention and give warning.
What is it we need to do? What should we be doing? How should we be living?
Ian summarises with 'John 13'
(34) A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
(35) By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th December 2015

1 CHRONICLES CHAPTER 12
(32) of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do,
ROMANS CHAPTER 13
(8) Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
(11) And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed.

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 1 - 11

Continuing where he left off on 13th December Ian reminds us of the warnings against false prophets.
How do we discern between the genuine and the false?
When choosing a church to attend do we look for one that will give us what we want by way of appearance, music, activities, age group, etc. or do we look at what is being taught. Can we see Christ in that church?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 3rd January 2016

2 PETER CHAPTER 2
(1) But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 1 - 12

In verse one we read, "swift destruction". Why then is there evil in the world, why are there still divisions and factions within the church?
Ian explains and asks, "are you approved by God?"

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 10th January 2016

(2) And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed.
(3) By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber.

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 1 - 12

What has happened in our society that has made sexual immorality acceptable?
We can understand that those who reject God do not believe in creation or events reported in the bible such as the flood, the destruction of Sodom, etc. but the greatest damage to Christianity comes from people within the church who have and are reinterpreting the bible to correspond with their own opinions and those of society.
Such people are out to destroy the foundations which would bring down the whole structure.
These same people choose not to believe in the judgement to come.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th January 2016

(4) For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment;
(5) and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly;

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 1 - 12

The certainty of God's judgement.
Believers know the truth because we have been told just as Noah and Lot were and they took action in obeying God.
They were ignored by the general population just as we are today. People don't need to be very bright to listen to weather warnings and take appropriate action by preparing themselves but from the times of the first prophets the messengers sent by God have been been greatly ignored.
How credible do you appear that others should listen to you? How do you live your life?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th January 2016

(6) and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly;
(7) and delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked
(8) (for that righteous man, dwelling among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds)-

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 4 - 11

Solid foundation in a fallen sinful society.
Looking particularly at verse 9 the Bible tells us about two kinds of people, the godly and the unjust.
We have always been subject to temptations and we still are but as Christians we have been freed from slavery and sin no longer has power over us. The powerful force of sin cannot be avoided in this world - it is all around us - but do we deliberately put ourselves in situations of temptation?
Ian asks, 'are you pious'? Listen to this sermon before answering.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 31st January 2016

7th February 2016 morning service (Ephesians 1 v 17 - 23) hear Michael Ashton via the menu in 'Online Sermons / by other speakers'

14th February 2016 morning service (Romans 12 v 1 - 2) hear Paul Harrison via the menu in 'Online Sermons / by other speakers'
Sermons on 2 Peter will resume next week when Ian is back.

(9) then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 10

False brothers and sisters within the church.
Peter is referring to people within the church, those who pose as Christians and those who believe they are Christians but override the Bible with their own doctrine.
We are to remember that Judas was one of the twelve disciples and the other eleven did not know what was in his heart but God did. God only sees two sorts of people - the just and the unjust.
The unjust may be amongst us but God WILL sort the wheat from the tares at harvest.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 21st February 2016

(10) and especially those who walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise authority. They are presumptuous, self-willed. They are not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries,

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 1 - 22

What motivates false prophets and teachers?
As it was with most of the Pharisees there are people in positions of self-appointed authority in churches today who do not believe the Scriptures. Why?
Ian also reads Jude v 8 - 11 to illustrate a comparison of these people to Cain, Balaam and Korah.

There is only one authority and that is God. Any deviation from God's word is false. We are reminded to be careful in what we listen to and what we read. We are to test everything exactly as the Bible tells us.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 28th February 2016

(12) But these, like natural brute beasts made to be caught and destroyed, speak evil of the things they do not understand, and will utterly perish in their own corruption,
(13) and will receive the wages of unrighteousness, as those who count it pleasure to carouse in the daytime. They are spots and blemishes, carousing in their own deceptions while they feast with you,

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 1 - 22

Continuing to explain authority Ian gives the Centurion as an example - a man who had power and authority given to him by the Roman Empire. He had that authority provided he acted according to the instructions of Rome.
We have the authority of God. Do we avoid portions of God's word that may offend? Are we to accept lifestyles and views that are contrary to God's instructions?
Many of todays churches do exactly that.
The apostles could have avoided martyrs deaths if they had changed the way they preached so as to conform to cultural expectations. They were not deterred from speaking with authority and nor are we.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th March 2016

(18) For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error.
(19) While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage.

2 Peter Chapter 2 v 17 - 22

How are we to recognise false prophets and false teachers?
They mix freely amongst the flock of true believers. Jesus described them as wolves in sheep's clothing. Much of what they say will be right but there will be poison amongst it.
Ian gives examples of 'wells without water' and clouds that don't bear rain. They hold a promise but are empty. This is like much of 'the church' today - dead - they may be well attended, they may have many activities but spiritually they are empty.
How difficult it is to find a church that preaches and teaches the Bible and have a fellowship of true believers while many churches grab anything 'new' and takes many down the roads of mysticism or offering all that people enjoy in their sin.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th March 2016

(17) These are wells without water, clouds carried by a tempest, for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.
. . .
(20) For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning.

2 Peter Chapter 3

Current happenings in the world are set to throw out God and His word from Europe. We are used to having it 'easy' in the UK as Christians but times are changing.
Are you prepared for what is to come? Are you fit for the challenge? What will you do?
The consequences are dire and just as Peter reminded believers at the time of Roman persecution we are reminded of the basis of our faith and trust in Christ.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th March 2016

CHAPTER 3
(1) Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder),

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 1 - 2

The mind is more than the brain. Peter refers to 'pure minds' and Ian asks us if we have 'pure minds'.
A comparison is made between getting rid of a computer virus and cleansing a human soul of the virus of sin. For the mind to be freed from sin the believer has done as Jesus said, "let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me."
True believers have died with Jesus on the cross and have been reborn as a new creation in Christ.
This is Easter and we are reminded that the central theme of the gospel is of the life of Jesus, His death, His resurrection and that He is coming again. ALL ACCORDING TO SCRIPTURE.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th March 2016

(2) that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior,

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 3 - 4

When Peter tells us that above all we should know "that scoffers will come in the last days" he isn't referring only to those outside the church. We are living in the last days and what we see are 'church' leaders unbelieving of scripture and not preaching prophecy and the imminent return of Christ.
How does it happen that they walk "according to their own lusts"? Why are they more and more accepting of immorality and perversions we see flaunted on our streets?
Many are on a diet of things demonic and most of it enters our homes via the TV. Believers must be careful and should feed on the word of God, on what is true, lovely, just, noble, pure and praiseworthy (Phil 4:8).

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 3rd Apr 2016

10h April 2016 Ian is preaching elsewhere
Morning service (Mark 16 v 18) hear Michael Ashton via the menu in 'Online Sermons / by other speakers'
Evening service (John 19 v 15) hear Garry Finnigan via the menu in 'Online Sermons / by other speakers'

(3) knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts,
(4) and saying, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation."

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 3 - 7

There are those in the 'church' who willfully forget or deny the truth of the bible. They pick away at the foundations of scripture through the lies of alternatives such as 'Theistic Evolution'. They say that all you need to believe in is Jesus.
Ian asks which Jesus do they believe in? It isn't the Jesus of the bible.
They believe in a god who used death, suffering, mutations and corruption to bring forth what is today.
Jesus obviously believed creation. The biblical account is good enough for Christ, it is good enough for the prophets, it is good enough for the apostles. Why not for us?
People who 'willfully forget' truth and erode the foundations are likely to deny such as the flood, saying that if there was a flood it was local or they may say that such things are myths or have been written simply to teach us something.
In his endtimes prophecy Peter warns us all to be mindful. These are the end times and the return of Christ is imminent.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th Apr 2016

(5) For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water,
(6) by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water.

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 8

Taken superficially this verse may suggest to some nothing more than a demonstration of God's patience, ie. that He will wait as long as it takes.
Those who wish to 'remove God from the equation' have made their own time frame for events. They say that everything that exists came out of 'nothing' billions of years ago whereas the Bible tells us specifically when everything came into being. The bible also tells us in which 'time' the present earth will come to a fiery destruction - others would agree about the fiery end but again prefer to make their time frame some billions of years away. By doing this they have no need to concern themselves with either.
Where does our concept of time come from? Who invented it? When does a day begin and end? Why?
Why are there seven days in a week? Why is a month as long as it is?
Ian answers these questions and reminds us not to confuse the obvious with the ideas of man.
We are also reminded that the end of this present age will come to an end in the not too distant future.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th Apr 2016

(7) But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.

(8) But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 9

Why do people move the 'day of judgement' into the distant future? They remove the fear of judgement so that it does not interfere with their plans in this life.
Ian explains what Peter means by, "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise" and why people suggest He is as does the evil servant in Matthew 24 v 48 "But if that evil servant says in his heart, 'My master is delaying his coming, . . ."
We are given an example illustrating the behaviour and attitude of those who will not listen and continue with the worldly majority along the wide road despite being told of the danger and ignoring the pleas of those who have found the narrow and not so easy path leading to God.
There is only one entrance onto that path and Jesus said, (John 10:9) "I am the door".
What must people do to open that door?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 1st May 2016

(9) The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 10

Some like to imagine god as a cuddly all-forgiving guy. Many churches reinforce or even support this view by not preaching sin, repentance and the judgement that is to come.
They do not acknowledge the God of the Bible as a righteous judge. There are professing Christians who open their Bible only for words of comfort and don't read the parts they feel will interfere with their lifestyle. They think that if they say they 'believe in Jesus' that is sufficient and they can continue their lives as they wish.
Ian looks again at why Peter wrote as he did - reminding believers to be ever watchful and not be deceived.
We too are to be watchful - not knowing when the Master will return and facing attacks by the enemy which can cause confusion over the matter.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th May 2016

(10) But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 10 - 18

Knowing that all the stuff of this world is passing away how should we behave? What should we do? How should we invest our time and energy? Jesus Christ is the foundation laid within our heart. How do we build on that foundation, what with and how will our building be tested?
Many people have their aims and ambitions in life. Their careers. They want to 'make something' of themselves. They want to enjoy themselves and enjoy life. Does God expected them to opt out and be miserable?
What are we supposed to do "in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation" (Phil 2 v 15)?

Ian gives hypothetical examples and looks at the apostle Paul, examining whether he opted out of life or was miserable despite extreme circumstances.
What is 'success' and what will we take with us as 'success' into eternity?

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th May 2016

(11) Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,
(12) looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat?

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 10 - 18

The Day Of God.
Is Peter referring to the Rapture, or to the second coming of Christ, or to the end of this world?
Peter says to believers that some things are hard to understand but the Bible tells us many times that it is not intended for us to be ignorant. If we seek we will find.
Listen to Ian give explanation of 'the day of God'.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd May 2016

(15) and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation - as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you,
(16) as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 14 - 18

Peter has reminded us of many things and Ian summarises what he has said. We are to live as citizens of heaven and not according to the cultures and traditions of a fallen world. We should be longing for our homeland, in peace, be morally pure, remain steadfast and continually growing in knowledge.

Are YOU looking forward to the rapture? Do you REALLY want to be with Christ in a place where there is no sin?
Look at what Paul writes (1 Corinthians 6 v 9 - 10)

On reading this do you think that e.g. a 'gay' person would be happy and comfortable in a place where their idea of who and what they are is unacceptable?
Would any person who can't let go of their sinful nature be happy in the presence of Christ?
The apostle Paul goes on to write, "And such were some of you."
We have all sinned and been enemies of God but those who have believed and repented have peace with God and we should strive to have peace with our brothers and sisters too but not peace at any price - the laying aside of beliefs. Be diligent. Do not try to become 'worldly' to fit in with others.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th June 2016

(17) You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;


1 CORINTHIANS 6
(9) Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites,
(10) nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.
(11) And such were some of you.

2 Peter Chapter 3 v 17 - 18

In this conclusion to the series of sermons on 1 Peter and 2 Peter Ian summarises Peter's message which is given to believers.
We have all sinned. We have been delivered from one kingdom of ignorance to another of the doctrine of Christ. We have the solid rock of Christ, our foundation on which to build.
The doctrine of Christ is not something just to be learned but to be lived. To be acted on.
Knowing his message is to believers Peter warns, "beware lest you also fall" indicating that some have fallen from their steadfastness.
How are we to remain steadfast? How are we to build ourselves up and grow? There is something we must do and Ian gives a highly imaginative example of what he would have to do to become a weightlifter.

Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th June 2016

(17) You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;

(18) but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.