In Greg Elmquist's sermon titled "Precious Things - Part 2," the central theological topic revolves around the preciousness of Christ and the redemptive work of His blood as articulated in 1 Peter 1:19. Elmquist argues that believers should recognize and value what God deems precious, focusing on three key elements: faith, promises, and the blood of Christ. He references Scripture, particularly 1 Peter 1:18-19, emphasizing that believers were not redeemed with perishable commodities like silver and gold but through the costly and invaluable blood of Christ, the Lamb without blemish. He underscores the practical significance of these truths, emphasizing that true assurance of salvation comes not from self-examination but from trusting in the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice.
Key Quotes
“May God give us the grace to consider precious what he considers precious and to look to that which he's looking to.”
“What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.”
“To you that believe, he is precious. Not the idea of him, not the thought of him, not truths about him, but he himself.”
“The more we look for assurance of our salvation in anything other than the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, the less sure we will be.”
The blood of Christ is described as precious and is the only means for redemption and forgiveness of sins.
In 1 Peter 1:19, the blood of Christ is referred to as precious, 'as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.' This underscores its unique value in the process of redemption, as it is through His blood that we are forgiven and receive life. The shedding of blood was required for atonement, and Christ's sacrifice on the cross fulfilled this requirement, allowing believers access to God. The significance of His blood lies not only in its redemptive power but also in its assurance as the means by which believers are justified before God. Therefore, the blood of Christ signifies both the cost of salvation and the security it provides to those who trust in Him.
1 Peter 1:19, Hebrews 9:22
Faith is considered precious because it is a divine gift that enables salvation through Christ.
Faith is termed precious as it is a gift from God that is crucial for salvation. 1 Peter 1:21 mentions that through Christ, we believe in God, highlighting that faith is a means through which our hope and trust are placed in Him. This faith, instilled in us by the Holy Spirit, is of immense value because it is the channel through which we receive God's promises and His grace. Without faith, one cannot please God or attain eternal life. Therefore, recognizing faith as precious affirms its divine origin and necessity in the life of every believer, as it connects us to Christ and His finished work.
1 Peter 1:21, Ephesians 2:8-9
God's sovereignty assures Christians that He is in control and works all things for their good.
The sovereignty of God is foundational in Reformed theology, as it emphasizes that God is in full control of all aspects of creation and salvation. It provides believers with the assurance that everything happens according to His divine plan and purpose. Romans 8:28 states that 'all things work together for good to those who love God,' reinforcing the idea that even in suffering or difficulty, God's hand is at work for the ultimate benefit of His people. This understanding helps Christians to trust in His goodness, leading to a sense of peace amidst life's uncertainties. Recognizing God's sovereign rule over all teaches believers to embrace His will and rely on His all-encompassing knowledge and grace.
Romans 8:28, Proverbs 16:9
God's precious promises assure believers of His faithfulness, grace, and salvation.
In 2 Peter 1:4, the apostle Peter refers to God's promises as 'exceeding great and precious promises.' These promises encompass all that God assures His people, including His faithfulness, love, and the gift of eternal life through Christ. Such promises serve as the foundation of the believer's hope, affirming that God will fulfill His word and provide for their spiritual and physical needs. By embracing these promises, believers grow in faith and are encouraged in their ministry, as they recognize that God's assurances are rooted in His sovereign character. Therefore, understanding and valuing God's promises is crucial for a robust Christian life, affecting one's worship, assurance, and service.
2 Peter 1:4, Romans 4:20-21
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