Life in the Middle

• The beginning: Genesis 1:26-31
• The end: Revelation 21:1-7

o Life in a broken universe: Genesis 3:14-24

 Spiritual conflict – and the first promise of a Redeemer
 A broken universe = death and is expressed in physical & emotional pain in multiplication
 Loss of intimacy with God

o Jesus comes to reverse the curse: 1 John 3:8b

o The purpose of prayer – pulling the future perfect of the Kingdom into the Now: Matthew 6:9-10
o The purpose of Kingdom power – demonstrating the future perfect of the Kingdom in the now: Luke 4:16-21
o We are now agents of His restoration and reconciliation: 2 Corinthians 5:16-21

The Story of Peter: Denial and Restoration

• Peter’s tumultuous career as a disciple of Jesus
• His abandonment and denial: John 13:31-38, and 18:15-18, and 18:25-27
• Peter’s restoration: John 21:15-19

o Three denials, three questions
o Two loves: agapaō, phileō
o Restored in relationship, restored to mission
o Renewed faith is expressed in renewed action

Our Response: Receiving and Facilitating Restoration

• Admitting our need for restoration releases it to us: MT 5:3
• Your loving Father wants to give you the Kingdom: LK 12:32-34

o Just like Peter, it’s in the giving that we receive
o In this we become like our Heavenly Father

• Share the restoration you have received: 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
• Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to the people around you who are in need of His restoration