Redeemer Network Podcast Session 1 | 2023 Conference
28 snips
Oct 3, 2024 
Ross Lester, a campus pastor at The Austin Stone Community Church, dives deep into the theme of 'Ordinary Churches, Extraordinary Mission.' He examines the context of 1 Peter, illuminating the life of a persecuted church and redefining identity in Christ. Lester uncovers the unique dignity of 'elect exiles' and emphasizes three marks of exiled life: hope, holiness, and honorable witness. He defines Christian hope as a secure anchor, rooted in resurrection, urging joyful endurance through trials while preparing hearts for grace.
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Local Church As God's Display
- Local churches are ordinary but display God's wisdom to powerful forces by humble, sacrificial community life.
- Ross Lester calls this endurance a miracle and the primary means God reveals his manifold wisdom.
Redefined Identity In Christ
- Identity matters: Peter calls himself 'an apostle' rather than his failures, showing redeemed identity shapes ministry.
- Lester emphasizes Christians are defined by their standing in Christ, not worst moments.
Elect Exiles: Security And Outsider Status
- Peter addresses 'elect exiles' to highlight both security (elect) and cultural outsider status (exiles).
- Lester warns Western churches often reverse this, seeking security in society and losing distinct joyful exile identity.
