Dig Deeper:
FIRST WORD ALARM: Nearly every chapter in the book of 1 Peter begins with a word that connects it directly to the chapter that precedes it. In fact, the new chapter doesn't make sense unless you read it in the context of the previous one. One of the biggest connecting words is the one we see at the beginning of chapter 2: Therefore. Anytime you see that word, an alarm should ring in your mind to remind you to ask 'what is that therefore there for?' In this case, you need to go back to 1:23 for the answer. You've been born again, "therefore, rid yourself of all" the rotten things in life.
PAYDIRT: Verses 9-10 comprise a paragraph that we could study for hours and not say the same thing twice. These two verses convey so many key Christian doctrines. They gather up God's people in the Old Testament and join them to those of us who live in the light of Christ. They remind us of the value our lives have right now as well as point us forward to the even greater things God has in store. Pick a favorite phrase from these two verses and share it with the group using the comment box below.
THAT'LL SHUT 'EM UP: In this season of political debates and endless talking heads arguing over each other and trying to shut their opponent up with a one line zinger, Peter gives the best advice possible for quieting your adversaries:
For it's God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people (v15).
THE CHRISTIAN END ZONE DANCE: Have you seen the latest gimmick at NFL games? Since there are no fans in the stands to glorify the players, stadiums have installed a large screen TV down by the end zone so that the players can see themselves doing their touchdown dance. As a Christian, you've scored perhaps the biggest upset possible by being saved from your sins. But you're called to celebrate in a much different way than a narcissistic football player. You're called to submit to all those around you: the government, your employer, and those you live with
Follow the AAA Prayer Pattern:
ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: God our Father is the one who judges justly, and is the Shepherd and Overseer of your soul (v24-25)
ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray that God will strengthen you "to live such a good life among the pagans that... they may see your good deeds and glorify God (v12)."
ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED:
