Living in Light of Hope

Scripture: 1 Peter 1:13-21

This sermon focusing on 1 Peter 1:13–21, Pastor Matt explores what it truly means for Christians to live as “elect exiles” in the light of a certain, living hope. Moving from the foundational truths of what Christ has already accomplished to the practical commands of the Christian life, the message breaks down three primary charges to the believer: setting your hope fully on future grace by maintaining an alert and sober mind, pursuing sincere holiness across all conduct as obedient children of God, and navigating this earthly journey with a reverent, fatherly fear. Ultimately, the sermon reminds us that these commands are not a path to legalism, but a joyful, fruit-bearing response to being ransomed by the precious, spotless blood of Jesus Christ.

Matt Sikes

Matt serves as the Pastor of Discipleship and Worship at Pray’s Mill Baptist Church. He and his family joined our church family in March 2020, coming to Douglasville from Fort Worth, TX. Before joining Pray’s Mill, Matt served churches in Maryland and Texas. Before entering full time pastoral ministry, he served as a musician with the United States Army Field Band in Washington, DC. Matt grew up in Savannah, GA and received his Bachelor of Music Degree in Performance from the University of Georgia and his Master of Music in Performance degree from the University of Michigan. He also earned his Master of Arts in Worship and is currently completing his PhD in Worship from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is married to Elise who has also earned degrees in music and homeschools their five children: Jordan, Norah, Micah, Evelyn, and Hannah.