1. Christians: Relationship And Responsibility 1 Peter 2:5-10

2. Not in Isolation Christians do not exist in isolation We are part of a community, the church We have relationships with each other We also have responsibilities to each other Peter uses 3 figures to describe Christians

3. A Christian Is – A Living Stone 1 Peter 2:5a 1 Peter 2:5a - you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house,

4. A Christian Is – A Living Stone Jesus is the builder – Matthew 16:18 Jesus is the builder – Matthew 16:18 - And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. solid foundation This building has a solid foundation chief cornerstone Jesus is the chief cornerstone OT temple OT temple – material, physical NT temple NT temple – spiritual, eternal

5. A Christian Is – A Priest 1 Peter 2:5b 1 Peter 2:5b - a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ 1 Peter 2:9b 1 Peter 2:9b – a royal priesthood Today Today – in worship: Priests – read Scripture, prayed Priests – served communion

6. A Christian Is – A Priest Every Christian is a Priest Revelation 1:6a Revelation 1:6a - and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father Revelation 20:6 Revelation 20:6 - but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

7. A Christian Is – A Citizen “Holy” means separation and dedication A Christian is called: By the gospel – 2 Thessalonians 2:14 Out of darkness – 1 Peter 2:9 Into the marvelous light Jesus is our King We are citizens in the kingdom of God

8. A Christian Is – A Citizen We are the people of God - Titus 2:14 - We are the people of God - Titus 2:14 - who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

9. A Christian Is – A living stone – in a spiritual house A priest – in a holy priesthood A citizen – in a holy nation Are you a Christian?