LIVING STONES

Introduction:

A. How do you approach an important person?

1. Recognize their position and authority.

2. With humility.

3. With respect.

B. How do we come to Jesus?

Body: 1 Peter 2: 4 - 8

I. Coming to Jesus.

A. As to a living stone.

1. God is not the God of the dead, but the living.

2. Not a lifeless idol.

B. Rejected by men.

1. To not receive is to reject.

2. To not continue with is to reject.

C. Chosen by God.

D. Precious (valuable, honorable, reputable, dear).

II. Who Are We?

A. Living Stones.

B. A Spiritual House.

1. A home for God to dwell within.

2. A place where God is worshipped.

C. A Holy Priesthood.

1. We offer up sacrifices.

2. They are to be acceptable to God (Cain and Abel).

D. Not shameful [v. 6].

1. God will not be ashamed of those who do His will.

2. God will not make us the "butt of His practical jokes."

III. The Disobedient.

A. Rejected the most important part of the building [Psalm 118: 22].

1. Keeps the house square.

2. Enables to house to stand.

B. Cause of their stumbling [Isaiah 8: 14] (proud brought down).

C. Rock of their sin.

D. Disobey what they are to obey.

Conclusion:

A. Where Do We Fit In?

1. Are we serving and pleasing God?

2. Are we being built into His house?

B. What Are We A Part Of?