Dear CPC Flock,

One of the main themes in 1 Peter has been the call to be ‘on mission.’ Peter reminds us that we are “elect exiles” with a calling (1:1). We’ve been set apart according to the foreknowledge of God through the blood of Christ for obedience to our Savior (1:2). This means, we are to be holy because God is holy (1:16). We are to abstain from worldly passion and to keep our conduct pure before ‘the lost’ (2:11-12). And we are to be prepared to make a defense for the reason for the hope that is within us (3:15).

As we live a life contrary to the patterns of this world, we are showing our neighbors something different. And often, as we build relationships with them, we can give the Good News of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection for sinners. To share such truth may require us to cross ‘the pain line.’ The claims of Christ can be an offense to people, and we need to be willing to go there even when it hurts. But do you need help knowing what to say? Here is a helpful explanation of Gospel truth for Gospel needy sinners.

—Pastor Clif