God has entrusted His people with spiritual authority and identity; how are we stewarding this sacred trust?
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Sermon Notes
BIBLE REFERENCE:1 Peter 2:9 (Anchor for identity/purpose) SUPPORTING TEXTS: 3 John 1:2, John 3:1-2, Revelation 1:6, Isaiah 1:18, 2 Timothy 2:15, John 14:27.
CENTRAL THEME: God has entrusted His people with spiritual authority and identity – how are we stewarding this sacred trust?
INTRODUCTION
The phrase “We the People” signifies power and identity in the human government. But Scripture reveals a far greater reality: God’s people are entrusted with divine authority and purpose (1 Peter 2:9, Rev 1:6). Just as citizens are accountable for their civic power, we are accountable for the spiritual power and identity God has bestowed upon us.
I. THE MEANING OF “GOD’S PEOPLE”: A CHOSEN IDENTITY
(Distinguish from general humanity)
1. Not Automatic: God created all, but His covenant people are those redeemed and transformed (John 1:12-13, 1 Peter 2:10 implied).
2. Defined by Relationship: They are marked by receiving, believing, and internalizing God’s Word (John 1:12-14 – “Word made flesh” resonance).
3. God’s Special Treasure: His active interest and investment are in this people (3 John 1:2 – “prosper… be in health” reflects care; Ex 19:5-6 echoed in 1 Pet 2:9).
II. WHO ARE “WE THE PEOPLE”? OUR BIBLICAL PORTRAIT
(Consolidate your points into core identity markers)
1. A Royal Priesthood & Holy Nation: Called to represent God and minister to the world (1 Peter 2:9, Rev 1:6 – “kings and priests”).
2. A Transformed People: Once in darkness, now walking in His light (Isaiah 9:2, John 3:1-2 – “born again”).
3. A Reasoning & Obedient People: Engaging with God (Isaiah 1:18 – “come, let us reason”), committed to His Word and righteousness (Ps 27:11 – teachable; 2 Tim 2:15 – study/doctrine; Prov 29 implied – instruction).
4. A Purpose-Driven People: Called out of darkness to proclaim His excellencies (1 Peter 2:9).
III. CHARACTERISTICS OF GOD’S PEOPLE: LIVING THE IDENTITY
1. Radical Commitment: Willingness to follow Christ above all (1 Peter 2:9 – “called out of darkness”).
2. Heart Transformation: Characterized by humility, contrition, and upright living (Ps 51:17 – contrite heart; Ps 15:2 – walks uprightly).
3. Dependence & Courage: Finding strength and salvation in God, not fear (Ps 27:1, 14).
4. Diligent Pursuit: Hungering for deeper truth, sound doctrine, and holiness (John 4 – Samaritan woman seeking; 2 Tim 2:15, 2:22; Hab 2:1-4 – standing on watch).
5. Anointed Testimony: Empowered by the Spirit to live and speak for God (Implied by priestly role, 1 John 2:20, 27).
IV. GOD’S PROMISES TO HIS PEOPLE
1. Eternal Security: Redeemed from perishing, secured in Christ (John 3:16, Rev 2:11).
2. Perfect Peace: Sustained by His presence and promise, guarding hearts and minds (Isa 26:3, John 14:27).
3. Divine Empowerment: Equipped by the indwelling Holy Spirit, our Helper (John 14:16-18, 26).
4. Eternal Union: The ultimate promise – being the prepared Bride of Christ (Rev 19:7-8).
CONCLUSION:
The Question: “What are you doing with the identity, authority, and power God has entrusted to you?” (John 3:1-2 – Nicodemus challenged).
The Challenge: This is not passive citizenship. It requires active engagement: fighting the good fight, laying hold of eternal life (1 Tim 6:12), living out our royal priesthood daily.
The Hope: We steward not in our own strength, but anchored in His unwavering promises and empowered by His Spirit.
PRAYER
Lord, You have called us ‘Your People,’ entrusting us with Your name, Your authority, and Your purpose. We have placed our hands on the plough of Your Kingdom. By Your Spirit, empower us to steward this sacred trust faithfully. Keep our eyes fixed on You, our hearts humble before You, and our lives radiant for You. Help us never to look back, but to live fully as Your royal priesthood, proclaiming Your excellencies until You call us home. Amen.
