Episode Details

True thanksgiving begins long before we count our blessings. It begins by recognizing that God has shown us mercy and welcomed us into His family through Jesus Christ.

In this message from 1 Peter, Pastor Chris Teien explains how understanding our identity in Christ produces gratitude, worship, faithful service, and a desire to tell others about God’s grace. Thankfulness is more than a holiday tradition or a response to favorable circumstances. It is the daily overflow of a heart that remembers what God has done.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 BE THANKFUL THAT GOD CHOSE YOU

Our salvation rests on God’s grace rather than our own efforts or merit. According to His foreknowledge and through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, God calls believers to belong to Jesus Christ and live in obedience to Him. (John 15:16; Ephesians 1:4-5; 1 Peter 1:1-2)

#2 BE THANKFUL THAT YOU BELONG TO GOD’S FAMILY

Believers are not meant to follow Christ alone. God has made us His people, united us in His church, and called us to encourage, serve, and strengthen one another. Once we were separated from God, but through His mercy we now belong to Him. (Romans 12:5; Ephesians 2:19; 1 Peter 2:9-10)

#3 BE THANKFUL THAT GOD HAS A PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE

God has called every believer to declare His praises and serve Him faithfully. He provides gifts, opportunities, relationships, and good works through which we can glorify Christ and make an eternal difference. (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 2:9, 21)

#4 EXPRESS YOUR GRATITUDE THROUGH WORSHIP AND OBEDIENCE

A thankful heart is demonstrated through more than words. Gratitude is expressed through worship, prayer, obedience, service, and a life that continually points others toward Jesus Christ. (Colossians 3:15-17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Remember who you are in Christ and whose you are. As you reflect on God’s grace and His purposes for your life, let gratitude shape your worship, service, relationships, and witness every day.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passages: 1 Peter 1:1-2; 1 Peter 2:9-10, 21

Supporting passages: John 15:16; Romans 12:5; Ephesians 1:4-5; Ephesians 2:10, 19; Colossians 3:15-17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18239546

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at wellfaith24@gmail.com.