1 Peter is about how we can live in such a way that the trouble and pain and suffering that inevitably comes into our lives will not crush us or make us weaker things, but instead make us stronger–refine our character, turn us into great people. How does that happen? How can the sufferings of life actually become tools that hone you and polish you and refine you?

What we need is right here in verse 16: “Be ye holy; for I am holy.” That’s the heart of this passage. First of all, it teaches us God is holy. Secondly, it teaches us we can be holy. Thirdly, we can be holy because God is holy. No hope otherwise.

This sermon was preached by Rev. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on October 17, 1993. Series "Splendor in the Furnace; 1 Peter, Part 1". Scripture: 1 Peter 1:13-21.

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