Hope through Suffering - 1 Peter 1:3-12

This accompanies the Bible Study to be held Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at The Salvation Army Oak Creek.

Opener:
Tell us your name and something you would have done differently this week if you had only known what was going to happen ahead of time.

Scripture Introduction:
Read 1 Peter 1:3-9.  Make two lists – one for things that last and one for things that are temporary.  Which list do people today hold onto?  Which ones do the typical Christian hold onto?  Why?

What does holding onto the second list cause us to do (verses 6, 8)?  How do we act?

Read Mark 8:27-37.  What list do you think Peter was holding onto?

Putting Myself in the Scriptures:
What does holding onto the first list cause us to do?  How do we act?

What is Peter saying about suffering?  What does he mean by saying that?  Can you picture giving the same advice Peter gives?  Why or why not?

Ministry through the ages:
Read 1 Peter 1:10-12.  What were the prophets trying to do?  According to the scriptures, what does the Holy Spirit do?  What is the goal of the Holy Spirit?

What do we learn about Jesus and his sufferings?  What can we learn from what Jesus experienced?

What does God give us in verse 3 that helps us endure suffering?

Call to Action:
What do you feel the Holy Spirit is inspiring you to do?  Who will benefit from your obedience?

Why do you think Peter added this statement about the angels?  (See 1 Timothy 3:16 - By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness: He who was revealed in the flesh, Was vindicated in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Proclaimed among the nations, Believed on in the world, Taken up in glory.)

Homework for Next Week:
Read 1 Peter 1:13-25. Look for ways that the Holy Spirit wants to use you.  Bring back your reports of obedience through the week.