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Home , 1 Peter 1, 1 Peter 2, 1 Peter 3, 1 Peter 5

STUDY GUIDE

SUMMIT VIEW CHURCH INTRODUCTION

“ are not different from the rest in Over the next three months, we’ll be studying the their“ nationality, language book of 1 Peter together. Over these twelve weeks, or customs. They live in we’ll see how we, as believers, can be filled with hope, and experience God, despite facing difficult and trying their own countries, but as circumstances. In fact, Peter communicates that in sojourners. They fulfill all the face of opposition, Christians are provided a great their duties as citizens, but opportunity to show the difference makes in our they suffer as foreigners. lives. They find their homeland wherever they are, but This guide has been prepared for you to use their homeland is not in individually, or as a life group, as a tool to further explore the text and engage with the messages from any one place. They are 1 Peter. We pray that it gives you additional resources in the flesh, but do not and helps you go deeper during this teaching series. live according to the flesh. They live on earth, but are

AUTHOR citizens of heaven. They obey all laws, but they live Peter is identified as the author of the letter in 1 Peter

1:1. Peter likely wrote the letter with the help of higher than that required (:12). The accounts tell us that Peter by law. They love all, but was a fisherman from Bethsaida; he and his brother all persecute them”.“ Andrew were among the first to be called to follow Jesus (John 1:43-44). Church history suggests that most - Address to Diognetus of the material from the are events Circa 2nd/3rd century and stories dictated to by the Apostle Peter. Peter was also heavily involved in the establishment of the early church, where the Book of Acts highlights his ministry in Acts 1-12, before switching to Paul’s missionary journeys from and on.

AUDIENCE As seen in :1, the letter is written to believers who are in exile throughout Asia Minor (modern day Turkey, see map). The locations are written in a sequential order, meaning Peter’s intention was that the letter would be itinerant and read widely. The language we find in this letter is extremely inclusive, meaning Peter is addressing the whole church, Jew and Gentile Christians, not just one small segment of the community. Map from Crossway ESV Study at www.esv.org. TIME The letter was written around 62/63 A.D. while Peter was likely in Rome (called Babylon in 1 Pet. 5:13). I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ I INTRODUCTION -- continued --

MAJOR THEMES A key passage that can summarize the OUTLINE OF 1 PETER entire book is found in :12-13. In this passage, Peter reminds us that we should I. Opening Greeting (1:1-2) not be caught off guard when we experience hardships, but in fact, we should rejoice in II. Called to Salvation as Exiles them, because it means we are sharing in the (1:3-2:10) life of Christ. a. 1:3-5 Our Inheritance There are two themes that present b. 1:6-9 Rejoice in Suffering themselves throughout 1 Peter̶suffering c. 1:10-12 Privilege of Revelation and the glory of God. While on the surface it d. 1:13-21 The Basis for Holy Living, may seem that these two things don’t belong Our Future Inheritance in the same sentence, Peter helps to show us e. 1:22-2:10 Living as the New that they can and often do intersect in the life People of God of a Christian. III. Living as Aliens to Bring Glory to PURPOSE God in a Hostile World (2:11-4:11) Peter is seeking to bring encouragement a. 2:11-12 Christian Life as a Battle and reassurance to Christians who are and Witness experiencing persecution, and provide b. 2:13-3:12 Demonstrating the insight on how to live in light of it. Peter Gospel in Our Relationships focuses on our identity in Christ, and how c. 3:13-4:11 How to Respond to that identity impacts our conduct in the Suffering various areas of our lives. Peter encourages us to remain faithful, knowing that God IV. Persevering in Suffering (4:12-5:11) ultimately has the final word, and we can a. 4:12-19 Persevere in Suffering experience eternal glory (1 Pet. 5:10). and Joy b. 5:1-5 Exhortations for Elders SUPPLEMENTAL and Young RESOURCES c. 5:6-11 Exhortations to Humility ▶▶ VIDEO: Bible Project – 1 Peter V. Concluding Words (5:12-14) ▶▶ RIGHT NOW MEDIA The Book of 1 Peter by Kyle Idleman ▶▶ BOOK 1 Peter For You by Juan Sanchez ▶▶ BOOK The Story of God Bible Commentary – 1 Peter by Dennis Edwards ▶▶ BOOK Disappearing Church by Mark Sayers ▶▶ BOOK Faith for this Moment by Rick McKinley

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 2 I peter I:I-2 As with most letters within the , Peter starts off with a greeting that introduces us to his audience, as well as his CONVERSATION STARTERS purpose for writing. We may have the propensity to overlook these ? When we walk through our front doors few verses when we open the after a long trip, we frequently state, book, thinking that there is little “Home sweet home.” What are we trying to to no substance to it. However, communicate when we use such language? if we take time to pause, read, Have you ever had an experience where and reflect, we will gain a better ? you may have been “home,” yet you still felt understanding of our God and unwelcome, unwanted, or uncertain? salvation. This week, while we may only be looking at two verses, READ & DISCUSS there is enough in them for us to spend all eternity studying. 1 Peter 1:1-2

The term “elect exile” creates an interesting connotation. While the readers of this letter were scattered and may have felt things were in ruin, Peter doesn’t allow geographical separation and difficult circumstances to take away from an eternal perspective. This week we will explore our security in God’s plan of salvation.

Within this passage, we see some large theological terms that carry great importance. If needed, spend some time reflecting on what each of them mean.

Elect: Generally refers to either the members of God’s people or to those within a local church. As we see within 1 Peter, it is addressing the creation of a people, rather than a calling of an isolated individual. God’s people are a privileged people, for they have direct access to Him, are saved by Him, and have Him there to uphold them through all trials.

What does it mean to be “chosen” or “elect?” For further clarification see: John 15:16; ? Acts 13:17; Romans 8:28-30; Ephesians 1:3-5; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14.

Exiles: The removal of an individual from one’s native land. Typically done in instances when one conquers another. The usage of the term “exile” would conjure up images for the original audience of the captivity the Jews experienced underneath the rule of Babylon (as highlighted in the books of Kings, Chronicles, Ezra, Daniel, Jeremiah, etc.).

Helpful Supplemental Video: Exile – The Bible Project

Have you experienced this feeling before? When? What have been the ? circumstances?

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 3 I peter I:I-2 -- continued --

Foreknowledge: God is fully aware of all events before they occur. Nothing is outside of God’s knowledge (past, present, or future). Nothing is hidden from Him and He knows everything completely. Foreknowledge is often connected to God’s plan of salvation as well as His reign over the universe.

Considering that we have been God’s chosen people from all eternity, does this ? change the way we view our circumstances? Even in the midst of hard ones?

Sanctification: As believers we receive a new identity, a new heart, and the Spirit to indwell us. The Spirit does a work in setting us apart, for dedicated service to God, as well as aiding in our progressive maturity into Christlikeness.

There are two things Peter can be addressing here: 1) Initial conversion or 2) The ? gradual progress in becoming more like Jesus. Which interpretation seems to make the most sense?

Note: It is entirely possible Peter is meaning both here. The Spirit sets people apart for God, so they may be holy. The Spirit empowers people to live in obedience that they may grow in holiness.

Each role of the Trinity is highlighted and introduced in this passage. Based upon ? this passage, what is the activity of each member?

APPLICATION

While Peter will later explain the duties a Christian has in the realm of politics, work, marriage, the church, and other relationships, he starts off explaining the exiles’ identity in God.

▶▶ Why is it this so important to remember as we further study 1 Peter?

▶▶ How important is it for Christians to understand that this world is not our home?

▶▶ What kind of perspective does this remind us to have towards the things of this world?

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 4 I peter I:3-I2 How do you usually respond to when you receive great news? When we get the phone call or CONVERSATION STARTERS text message about the birth of a new baby, new job, promotion, or engagement, we are often filled In moments of doubt and uncertainty, what with joy in response to what has ? do you typically lean on for support and security? happened. We struggle to contain the excitement! Much like us, Peter Can you think of an example of God’s responds in a similar way after ? faithfulness to you in the midst of hardship? speaking of the great salvation How did this trial show you the genuineness of that has come to us. Quickly your faith? after being reminded of such a great work (verses 1-2), his heart’s READ & DISCUSS response is one of worship. In 1 Peter 1:3-12 this passage we find a wonderful hymn of praise celebrating the new life and future glory for Verses 3-13 are technically one long believers. ? sentence in Greek (the original language in which the book was written). In this section, Peter addresses God’s mercy, our new birth, the eternal inheritance waiting for us, and experiencing joy in the face of suffering. Why do you think Peter starts this section with “Blessed be God?” ? In verse 3, Peter mentions being “born again.” What does it mean to be “born again”? See John 3:1-21; Colossians 2:13; 1 John 5:1. Follow-up: How would you answer someone who asked how to be born again?

What reason does Peter give us as the purpose behind some of the suffering and ? persecution we experience? See 1:6-7.

Is it possible to have hope regardless of circumstances? Follow-up: List the reasons ? given in verses 3-12 for a believer to maintain hope during difficult circumstances. Do these reasons help you have hope? Why or why not? ? This section starts off with Peter celebrating, rejoicing, and praising God. In verse 8, he speaks of a joy inexpressible. Do you share in this? If not, how can you share in Peter’s excitement and joy as expressed in this passage?

APPLICATION

In his commentary on 1 Peter, John Calvin notes that Peter begins his letter by describing our hope in such strong and bold terms that we may “enjoy the invaluable treasure of a future life; and also that we may not be broken down by present troubles, but patiently endure them, being satisfied with eternal happiness”. This week, how can you keep this eternal perspective in your conversations, relationships, and other responsibilities?

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 5 peter In this week’s passage, we begin I I:I3-2:3 to see Peter’s instructions on how- to live-in light of the truths we’ve CONVERSATION STARTERS studied the first two weeks. Here we discover Peter begins to bring about practical application on ? Think of your life before you became a how to relate with God, others, and Christian. How different is your life now? an unbelieving world. Peter begins to address two subjects that we What is the biggest battle between how you ? used to live and how you are now called to frequently want to shy away from: live? Obedience and holiness. It is of the utmost importance that as we READ & DISCUSS study and discuss this passage, we remember that our pursuit of a 1 Peter 1:13-2:3 godly life is rooted and motivated by the great salvation we have Define holiness (see Leviticus 11:44-45; already received in Jesus, not in ? Psalm 24:3-4; Isaiah 6:1-7; :21). What hopes of receiving it. are some other terms or descriptions that help us define “holy”?

Peter instructs us to conduct ourselves with fear (verse 17). What is Peter telling us to ? do here? Follow-up: What role should fear play in our lives? See 1 Peter 1:17; Exodus 20:20; Deuteronomy 5:29; Proverbs 1:7. ? Considering that our salvation came at a great cost (1:18-19), how should this motivate us toward holy living?

In :1, Peter calls us to rid ourselves of five specific things. What are they? ? What kind of impact would it have if God’s people truly lived that way? Follow-up: Which would be the most challenging for you? ? While 1 Peter 2:1 tells us what we should rid ourselves of, 1 Peter 2:2-3 tells us what we should be craving. As Christians, what should we be feasting on? Follow-up: What do you find yourself mostly nourishing your soul with?

APPLICATION

Theologian Wayne Grudem states that, “Holiness involves not only avoiding outward sin but also maintaining an instinctive delight in God and his holiness as an undercurrent of heart and mind throughout the day.” How does this shift your thinking and understanding of the pursuit of holiness?

In what areas of your life are you still struggling to walk in holiness? How can we as a group support one another in this pursuit?

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 6 peter People long to connect with I 2:4-5 something of significance. Think about it̶people in our area CONVERSATION STARTERS wear Seahawks jerseys with the number “12” on it to denote their identity with being a fan of ? Is involvement and participation in your the team. People are willing to local church an important part of your fight and lose relationships over spiritual life? identification with political parties. ? What role do we personally play in the local People rally around causes to be a church? Is it of any importance? part of a something greater than themselves. In this passage, Peter READ & DISCUSS begins to desribe what we’re a part of as Christians. Peter also 1 Peter 2:4-5 gives us a complete description of the Christian life. For Christians, In verse 4, Peter refers to the regular routine there is to be a continuous coming ? of Christians coming to Jesus. What are to Jesus̶a life of devotion and some ways we can draw near to His presence? sacrifice. While there is a personal Hear Him speak? component to it, it is imperative we don’t stop there. In our lives In the Old Testament, there are many verses and culture, our eyes are often ? that prophesy about Jesus, and refer to Him focused on the temporal, the as the stone. See :16; 51:1-2; Psalm 118:22; Daniel 2:26-35. Considering those prophecies, immediate, and ourselves. What and what Peter writes here, what are we to Peter begins to do in this passage understand about Jesus? is move us past the idea of “Me and Jesus” to a more holistic ? What does it mean that we are a “spiritual approach to our spiritual growth house / “holy priesthood”? Follow-up: For and understanding of “We and what two purposes does a exist? Jesus”. Collectively, believers are ? What are “spiritual sacrifices”? See Romans a building project of God’s temple 12:1; Philippians 4:18; Heb. 13:15-16. here on earth. ? How does Peter’s description of the church impact your own view of the church? APPLICATION

“Church fellowship is not an optional advantage, to be chosen or ignored, like membership in a social club. It is the calling of every Christian. There is a spiritual ‘ethnicity’ to the church of Christ; Christians are blood relatives, joined by the blood of Jesus Christ.” – Edmund Clowney

While believers individually become a temple of God (1 Cor. 6:19), we are collectively built into a temple along with other believers, where God dwells among us. This week, how can we tangibly experience this, and express it for others?

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 7 peter Have you ever noticed that I 2:6-I2 many people in our culture are comfortable talking about God, CONVERSATION STARTERS yet when we turn the conversation to Jesus, people begin to get a little uneasy, defensive, or just ? We’ve been studying 1 Peter for a month. completely cut us off? Would you What has God taught you so far? be surprised to find out that this occurs because it was by design? Have you ever shared the Gospel with ? someone? How did it go? In our passage this week, Peter reminds us that Christ is either precious to us and our firm READ & DISCUSS foundation, or he is nothing but a 1 Peter 2:6-12 stumbling block. Those who see Jesus as precious, see Him for who He is and what He has done for us. Verses 6-8 seem to be pointing us to the fact ? that everyone has a choice between two They will live a life that is reflective options. What are they? Why are these the only of this truth, and will declare it to two options? Which have you chosen? those around them.

What are other things (besides Jesus), that ? we have unfortunately put forward as stumbling blocks for unbelievers? (Think of what you’ve heard… “I would go to church but…” “All Christians are…”)

In this passage, Peter says that you are chosen, royal, holy, and one of his own people. ? Does this passage change your sense of value when you see yourself through God’s eyes? How? ? According to verse 9, what are God’s people supposed to do? In verses 11-12, Peter revisits the subject of the proper conduct in a believer’s life. How ? does obeying God enhance our witness to non-believers? According to Peter, what keeps us from doing this?

APPLICATION

In this passage, Peter encourages the people of God to reveal and proclaim just how excellent our God is. He has rescued us from darkness and shown us great mercy. He has given us a new family, community, and ethics. Our lives are a story of God’s grace, and He uses these stories to draw people to Himself and bring encouragement to fellow believers. Take a few minutes to write out a short version of your testimony, and consider sharing it with a friend, or in your group. In general, you can use a three-point outline:

1. Life before knowing Christ 2. How you came to know Christ 3. Life after you received Christ (changes He has made, what He means to you now)

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 8 peter Over the next two weeks, we’ll I 2:13-25 be addressing one of the more debated and contested invitations CONVERSATION STARTERS and expectations of the Christian life: a life of submission. In this week’s passage, we see practical ? How do you respond to authorities in your exhortations from Peter in how life, even if they appear unjust, incompetent, Christians are to relate to the or harsh? authorities that are in place Why do you think that we as 21st Century above us. This week addresses ? Americans have difficulty with the concept political, governmental, and work of submission? authorities. What’s surprising about Peter’s instruction is that READ & DISCUSS it flies in the face of what we would expect or even want. 1 Peter 2:13-25 Think about it this way̶it was just a few decades earlier when According to Scripture, what is the reason political rulers abdicated their ? Christians are to submit? See verse 15 and responsibility and had Jesus Romans 13:1-5. crucified. In , a king puts out a plan to arrest Peter and kill Is there ever a reason for Christians to NOT him. Yet Peter calls us to respect ? submit? See Daniel 3:8-12; Daniel 6:6-10; those in authority and invites Acts 4:18-20. us to see things from a different According to the Scriptures, is submission perspective. ? based on the worthiness of the one who is being submitted to? Does it imply inferiority to The Book of 1 Peter by Kyle the one who is submitting? See 1 Corinthians Idelman provides a helpful video 15:28; Philippians 2:5-11. Follow-up: How do we for further teaching. go about doing this regardless of what political party the leader belongs to? ? What do you think Peter is calling for in verse 16? In verses 21-25, Peter grounds his whole argument in the example that Christ has set ? for us. How does the promise of suffering and hardship as you follow Christ bring you comfort, yet also challenge you?

APPLICATION

In verse 17 of this passage, Peter gives us four succinct commands. What are they? What are practical examples of how we can do this as Christians?

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 9 I peter 3:I-7 Intro written by Glassett At first blush, Chapter 3 can seem rather offensive. Be subject to your husband, CONVERSATION STARTERS don’t speak, watch how you dress…who does Peter think he is? To understand, however, we must take a step back; ? If you were asked to describe a perfect zoom out to see the whole picture. husband / perfect wife, what would you say? Remember, context is everything.

Why would a community/local church ? benefit from strong marriages? In Chapter 2, Peter addresses believers, telling them who they are in light of what Jesus has done; they are a chosen READ & DISCUSS race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, :1-7 God’s possession (2:9). Peter then goes on to explain that because of who they are, how they should act. He tells them In this passage, Peter starts his exhortations ? by stating “likewise” (verses 1 and 7), to act like Jesus. This should change meaning they are to be viewed in light of what everything. What we believe about God we covered last week (submission and the should change what we do (1 Peter 1:13- example set by Jesus). How does that help 20). Peter speaks directly to people who impact how we approach these verses? What are being oppressed and overlooked, does that protect us from using these verses as? and he doesn’t shy away from women. This should encourage us. He calls What kind of impact can a wife have on ? a husband? What about a wife with an women to action by addressing their unbelieving spouse? See verses 1-2. hardship, but he calls them to act like Jesus. It’s hard. Remember, he has been ? What is modesty? Peter here, and Paul in there. But more importantly, Jesus has 1 Timothy 2:9-10, teach that Christian women been there, and he modeled perfect should look different than other women in the responses to really hard (unthinkably culture. Do you agree with this? How could these hard) situations (1 Peter 2:12-23, Hebrews verses impact our everyday lives? 4:15). As followers of Jesus, as women, What does it mean for husbands to live with we have a choice to make: will we, like ? their wives “in an understanding way”? How Jesus, trust that God will always do does what Peter says in verse 7 inform husbands what is right, or will we fight, revile, and how to treat their wives? threaten to make our own way?

APPLICATION If our focus becomes Peter calling out women’s behavior, nit-picking what he meant, and we focus our discussion on WOMEN: Where do you need to trust God, rather what kind of clothing is okay, when is it than fight to make your own way? okay to speak up, to argue, to defend, MEN: Peter warns that those who do not honor we miss the point. Peter is calling all their wives and live with them in a godly manner, believers to act like Jesus. To trust God. God may hinder, or pay no heed to their prayers. Even when̶especially when̶it is hard. How does this impact the way your view, treat, and speak to your wife? I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 10 I peter 3:I-7 -- continued --

BRIEF INTERLUDE ON THE “WEAKER VESSEL”

“While the wife is of the weaker sex in muscular strength, her role in the gift of physical life is surely not less! In relation to the gift of spiritual life, the woman is in no sense weaker, for in Christ there is no longer male and female (Gal. 3:28). No less then her Christian husband, the Christian wife is a living stone, ‘being built into a spiritual house’ in the Lord (2:5).”

– Edmund Clowney, The Message of 1 Peter

“The term recalls God’s creation of all people, both men and women, and is a reminder both of human frailty and of obligation to God our Creator.”

– Wayne Grudem, 1 Peter Commentary

“The husband should treat his wife like an expensive, beautiful, fragile vase, in which is a precious treasure. Men too must remember they are nothing but a vessel as well.”

– Warren Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 11 peter We return to a major theme in I 3:I8-22 Peter’s letter̶suffering. In this section of the text, Peter calls CONVERSATION STARTERS Christians to suffer well and know that there is no reason to fear, for we can find blessing during it. ? How do you typically respond when you’ve Peter is seeking to bring assurance been mistreated, slandered, or insulted? that we too will experience victory over sin and death because of our READ & DISCUSS union with Jesus. 1 Peter 3:18-22 While we’ve been studying 1 Peter, we’ve interacted with some In verses 8-9, Peter addresses the covenant difficult texts. Not difficult because ? community of believers. He gives a they were hard to understand, but summary of the characteristics of the believing difficult because it is hard to live community. Do you think this could be said out what they call us to. This week, about us? we experience a difficult passage once again, but this time it’s What does it mean to suffer for the sake of because it’s hard to understand. ? righteousness? See verse 14. Many scholars still debate as the Earlier we asked about how we typically meaning behind Peter’s teachings ? respond when we’ve been mistreated. How in 18-22. For a helpful resource does this passage (verses 8-17) change your initial regarding these verses, read this response? article.

In verse 15, Peter says we should be ready ? to make a defense for the hope we have. Do you feel prepared to give an answer? When was the last time you had the opportunity to do so?

Verse 18 is one of the most succinct descriptions of what Jesus has done for us. Can ? you explain in your own words the truths we learn about in this verse?

Peter is linking believers with (Genesis 6-8) in the latter part of this passage. ? Both Peter’s audience and Noah were considered a minority in a hostile world. Peter is saying Christians can be sure that they are safe when judgement comes. As Noah was delivered, we too will be delivered because of Jesus’ victory over sin and death. As Christians, how should this encourage people facing unjust suffering?

APPLICATION

What are some ways you can live with greater harmony and sympathy for others in your community this week?

If you have not been baptized yet and you would call yourself a Christian, consider getting baptized at Summit View on April 28 at Heritage Park, and April 21 at Westside. For more details, email: [email protected] I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 12 peter We can measure the quality I 4:I-II of our life by the quality of our relationships. As Christians, we CONVERSATION STARTERS experience a relationship with God, other Christians, and those who don’t believe. Much of the ? We’re over halfway through our study highs and lows within our lives in 1 Peter. What are some things God is are typically directly connected teaching you about living as an exile? to how we are doing in these ? By looking at someone’s life, do you think it relationships. is easy to tell whether they are a Christian or not? This week Peter continues encouraging the church to ? How do you typically respond when you’ve examine their relationships and been mistreated, slandered, or insulted? the manner in which they interact. READ & DISCUSS 1 Peter 4:1-11

In verse 2, Peter tells us to live in a specific way for the rest of our lives. What is it? ? And how do we go about doing it? Follow-up: In what ways have you been pursuing the will of God versus the will of man?

In verse 4, Peter states that there should be a distinct difference between the way ? Christians live, versus how the rest of the world lives. Has anyone ever been surprised when you decided not to partake in something due to your faith?

List the commands Peter gives in verses 7-11. How do these relate to the end of all ? things being close? Follow-up: Do you see any similarities or common themes in these commands? Follow-up: Which of these commands do you find hard to obey? Why?

In verse 8, Peter talks about love covering a multitude of sins. How have you seen ? love cover a multitude of sins in your life? See Proverbs 10:12; :20.

This passage brings about a lot of instruction and direction for believers. What is one ? practical change the Spirit is inviting you to make as you read and discuss this?

APPLICATION

While this passage is filled with practical applications for believers, it also concludes with a wonderful doxology. A doxology is simply a short hymn of praise that celebrates and thanks God. Peter’s song of praise here is not a wish, but a statement of fact. It helps root and anchor all the commands given. We don’t follow God’s commandments for our own glory; but that Christ may be glorified in us. Take time to reflect upon why Peter is praising God, and see how you can do so likewise in your life this week. I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 13 peter Are you someone who loves I 4:I2-I9 surprises? Whether it is a surprise party or a surprise gift, CONVERSATION STARTERS nothing excites you more than the spontaneity of receiving something that is unexpected? ? Can you think of a time when you were Or do you dread the idea of being surprised by a trial in your life? When was it, caught off guard and avoid and how did you respond? surprises at all costs. Within this What is your initial response to suffering? passage, Peter calls to attention ? something that none of us should be surprised by: trials. Actually, not READ & DISCUSS just trials, but fiery and painful 1 Peter 4:12-19 trials. Yet what we see this week is that it’s not all for naught̶God has a purpose for it. What Unfortunately, today there is a popular Peter writes here helps give us ? teaching and belief in that God simply wants us to be happy, rich, successful, etc. perspective. How does this passage correct this unhelpful and unbiblical teaching? In his commentary on 1 Peter, John Calvin writes, “...when he ? According to this passage, what is God’s says, that a righteous man is view on, and purpose for, suffering? scarcely saved [verse 18], he refers to the difficulties of the present ? What is Peter’s expectation of Christians when they experience suffering? life, for our course in the world is like a dangerous sailing between ? How does verse 19 help summarize this many rocks, and exposed to passage and encourage us? many storms and tempests; and thus no one arrives at the port, Has Peter’s letter helped bring a different except he who has escaped from ? perspective to you and your life? How [a] thousand deaths. It is in the can Peter’s words help us from becoming discouraged when suffering, hardship, and trials meantime certain that we are come? guided by God’s hand, and that we are in no danger of shipwreck as APPLICATION long as we have him as our pilot.”

In verse 19, Peter gives two calls to action. What are they? What are the ways you can do this?

Note: If this subject and topic has stirred a desire for more conversation on suffering and God, we will be circling back to this topic later this year in our apologetics series.

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 14 peter It seems like we cannot go a week I 5:I-5 without hearing about the fall and disqualification of a pastor CONVERSATION STARTERS somewhere. Sadly, in recent years, the misuse of power and abuse of churches and their leaders ? What are the qualities and characteristics have plagued the headlines of that you look for in a great leader? newspapers and television shows. While healthy leadership is Should we expect to see a difference ? between leadership in the church and in essential for any organization, how the world? much more important is it for the church to have it?

READ & DISCUSS In this week’s passage, we get 1 Peter 5:1-5 to explore role and expectations placed on church leaders. Peter lays out for us what to look for, Why do you think Peter uses the imagery ? of a shepherd when speaking to the role of what to avoid, and how to follow. a church leader? See Matthew 9:36; :6; When all is said and done, we must John 10:1-17. remember that Jesus is still the chief Shepherd of the church, no ? What are some principles for leadership matter whom He has delegated found in verses 1-5? Note: Look at what authority to in the local church. Peter highlights for what ought and ought not be done.

Peter says leaders are to be an example to the flock. Exactly how are leaders to be ? examples to the flock? See Ezekiel 34:1-22; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9.

While most of this passage is specifically addressing the elders, there is some ? instruction about the church’s responsibility to respond in verse 5. Hebrews 13:7 and 13:17 provide further insight for relationship dynamics between the church and their leader. How do these verses help further clarify the role between the church member and their leader?

Hebrews 13:7 - Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. (ESV)

Hebrews 13:17 - Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. (ESV)

APPLICATION

This week, spend time praying for our elders, pastors, and church leaders. Pray for them to live a life worthy of the calling, and that they may exhibit the qualities Peter emphasizes. Find a way to encourage one of our leaders this week. Note: Learn more about how this is expressed at Summit View by reading our Elder’s Booklet. I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 15 peter At the conclusion of a letter, there I 5:6-I4 are usually parting words to help reinforce what we were seeking CONVERSATION STARTERS to communicate throughout our entire correspondence. Here, we find Peter concludes his ? Have you experienced a time in your life letter in a similar fashion. A little where God’s care for your concerns was bit of instruction, a little bit of obvious? encouragement, and a closing prayer and blessing. May we hear READ & DISCUSS Peter’s words this week as such. 1 Peter 5:6-14 “That same hand of God which presses us down is waiting to raise ? What does it mean to humble yourself us up when we are prepared to under God? bear the blessing. We stoop to conquer. Many cringe before men Are there any anxieties that you need to ? cast upon God? Follow Up: Read Matthew and yet miss the patronage they 11:28-30 – does reading Jesus’ words here help crave; but he that humbles himself you believe that God really cares for you? What under the hand of God shall would your life look like if you really handed over not fail to be enriched, uplifted, your anxieties to Him? sustained, and comforted by the ever-gracious One.” – Charles Three times in this letter, Peter tells us to be Spurgeon ? “sober-minded” (1 Peter 1:13; 4:7; 5:8). Why do you think Peter keeps repeating this?

How does Peter describe Satan in verses 8-9? Follow Up: What are some other ways ? in which he is described throughout Scripture? See John 8:44; :2; 1 John 3:8; :9.

What are some ways in which we can resist him? See :7-10; ? Ephesians 6:10-20.

The letter concludes with yet another reminder that suffering and hardship on this ? earth are temporary, and that God will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. What do you think Peter is attempting to communicate to us with these four different verbs?

APPLICATION

1 Peter 5:12 can provide as a wonderful summary of the whole book of 1 Peter. His writing exhorts and declares that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. In our 12 weeks of studying 1st Peter, we have been given a mix of commands and Gospel truth. Take some time over the next week to reflect upon what you have learned about God, what He has called you to, and ask that He would continue to give you the grace to stand firm.

I PETER STUDY GUIDE ▶ 16