This Sunday we continue our study in 1 Peter where Peter points us to a living heavenly hope. Earlier in his life we have recorded an account of a young man who was anxious for Christ to establish a physical kingdom of God that would overthrow human government, end suffering, and rule victorious. In his impetuous zeal that lacked knowledge he even rebuked Christ himself when Christ spoke clearly about the need for his suffering and death. In these last days, and the nearing end of Peter’s life on earth, Peter writes with a different perspective. He writes about our heavenly hope in the kingdom of God, a kingdom that will come after the suffering of saints for their faith.

In response to the suffering that must come, Peter sets forth rules for life – a Christian ethic for living in light of suffering. In returning to the theme of Christ’s suffering that we saw in chapter 3, Peter presents suffering not as an exception, but as the rule for true believers. Peter directs the elect exiles, which includes us, to see the suffering and death of Jesus Christ as the pattern for Christian living and service. The suffering Peter describes is for a purpose – being done with sin. This man who rebuked Christ, then denied him, now exhorts us to arm ourselves not with a sword, but with the same mind-set that Christ had in doing the Father’s will. Peter was changed because he came to know and trust Jesus Christ. May Peter’s words written through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit be used to open our eyes that we would know Jesus in this same way so that in everything God may be glorified through Christ Jesus.

As you prepare for Sunday, take time to read over 1 Peter 3-4 again and pray for God to continue to conform our church body into the image of Christ by changing the way we think.

I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. And remember, we will plan to gather outside at 8:30am for service and 10:30am for Great Commission Prayer.

For God’s glory and your joy,
Pastor Rod

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Discussion & Response Questions
1 Peter 4:1-11
1. What does it mean for us to “arm yourselves with the same way of thinking” (v.1)?
2. How does Christ’s suffering reorient us (vv. 1-2)?
3. What does Peter teach about the purpose of life? How does this contrast with unbelievers?
4. While God’s judgment is in view for the Gentiles (vv. 3-5), what is in view for the Christian? (vv. 6-7)?
5. Does “the end of all things” being at hand motivate you? What should it motivate us toward?
6. Do you think of prayer as a primary response to loving and serving the Lord? How would arming yourself with the same way of thinking as Christ change your approach to and practice of prayer? (v. 7)
7. What does it mean practically for each of us individually and collectively to be self-controlled and sober-minded? (v. 7)
8. How does Peter explain what it means to “love one another earnestly”? (vv. 8-11)
9. Have you been gifted? For what purpose are you gifted? (Notice the source of the oracles and strength).
10. Is the glory of God our aim? How does one become passionate or zealous for the glory of God?