TEXT: 1 Peter 5:5–14 PREACHER: Pastor Mark Driscoll DATE: May 10, 2009

Introduction

The letter of 1 Peter culminates with the theme of humility. Earlier in the book, Peter described Christians as "elect exiles" of God’s kingdom. As we journey toward our King and his kingdom, we identify ourselves as belonging to God by striving to live by the humble standards set by Christ rather than the standards of pride set by the world. As John Calvin said, "If you ask me concerning the precepts of the Christian religion, first, second, and third, and always I would answer, 'Humility.'" True humility is... 1) The fear of the Lord (Prov. 1:7; 3:34). 2) Christlike. Following in the ethic of Jesus based on the grace he provides. 3) Accepting your place (Rom. 12:3).

Humble Christians Respect their Elders (1 Peter 5:5)

• Elders (pastors) are qualified and appointed male leaders within the church.
• Humble Christians should heed the elders' counsel.
• In case of disagreement, one should respectfully follow the "chain of command" approach.

Questions to Develop Humility

• Are you teachable?
• How do you respond to correction and rebuke?
• Do you repent quickly and thoroughly?
• How considerate are you of others?
• Do you give and receive service well?
• Are you constantly aware of God’s grace?
• Do you disagree agreeably?
• How much do you need attention and affirmation?

Humble Christians Make Good Leaders (1 Peter 5:6)

• Good leaders serve out of love, not selfish ambition.
• Aspiring leaders mustn’t think of themselves as more highly than they ought.
• Young (spiritually), aspiring leaders often let zeal get ahead of maturity.
• It is important to humbly distinguish between God’s calling and God’s timing.

Humble Christians Understand their Life (1 Peter 5:7–11)

• Internally – Humbly acknowledging God’s ultimate sovereignty takes away anxiety.
• Externally – Those who are humble acknowledge their need for God’s help to recognize and resist Satan’s temptations.
• Eternally – God eventually restores and exalts humble Christians with him for eternity, making the suffering of this life seem relatively short.

Humble Christians Bless their Church (1 Peter 5:12–14)

• The church needs humble servants like Silvanus and Mark.
• Humility fosters a joy, a sweetness, and a kindness among a people; the humble make great friends, spouses, parents, and leaders.
• The one thing that can destroy Mars Hill Church is pride.
• Pursue and develop humility by the grace of God.