I Peter 1,2

 Living Stones

I am reminded of a trip to India a few years ago when I think of this passage.

I had the privilege of speaking Sunday morning at a house church.  Afterward,

we were invited to the dedication of a members new house.  When we arrived

I was asked to give a devotion for the ceremony!  Sending up a quick (and

rather desperate prayer)  I Peter came to mind - how we as believers

are a spiritual "house" being built up in the Lord.  

The Taj Mahal

The House church pastor and his family.

Our language was different, but our faith and love for the Lord
was the same.

I Peter 2:4,5

As you come to him (Jesus Christ) the living Stone-

rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him- 

you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual 

house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices

acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Peter calls Jesus the Cornerstone
and the Capstone.

Questions for 1 Peter 1,2

1.  Have you received the cleansing and rebirth Christ offers?

What does your life show:  that you are a visitor in this world, or very 

at home and settled?

2.  How active and living a "stone" are you in Christ's temple, the Church?

Are you serving?  Supporting other stones?

3.  What examples do you give in submitting to authority:  At work?  In your

community?  As a citizen of the U.S or other country?  

What would be different if you showed respect to a difficult person in authority 

over you?