Are You In The Will?

by Dennis Michelson
(Painesville, Ohio)

I Peter 1:18-2:3

Introduction: Your family has gathered for the reading of the will after the death of a wealthy loved one. Eager relatives and legal advisors are present. Before the reading of the last will and testament of the deceased some routine precautionary measures are taken.

It is then that a prominent attorney representing the family steps forward and makes a shocking statement. He looks directly at you and says "you have been disqualified from any inheritance." You retort "on what grounds?" The lawyer's reply is instant and precise - "our records show that you are an illegitmate child."

How much greater shock and grief will there be in that day when many will hear "depart from me I never knew you." The following are three vital evidences you need to produce to ensure that you are not left out of the blessings and benefits of the last will and testament of Jesus Christ.

1. Being Born Again is Evidenced by Something You Know (1:18-20)

a. You must know the correct price of salvation (1:18-19)

b. You must know the correct plan of salvation (1:20)

Note: The price is blood and the plan is a Person.

2. Being Born Again is Evidenced by Something You Do
(1:21-22)

a. You must believe in God by means of Jesus Christ (1:21)

b. You must obey God by means of the Truth (1:22)

(1) love with sincerity
(2) love with purity
(3) love with fervency

3. Being Born Again is Evidenced by Something You Have
(1:23-2:3)

a. You must have a legitimate birth (1:23-25)

b. You must have a lively appetite (2:1-3)

Do you have these birthmarks of a believer?