LifeGroup Notes

BIG IDEA
Our study this week takes us to 1 Peter. Peter wrote this letter to the believers who had been scattered throughout Asia Minor, which is our present-day Turkey. They were described as exiles, foreigners, and temporary residents, all because of their identification as followers of Christ. Early on, they were often viewed as merely a sect of the Jewish faith, but after the great fire in Rome in A.D. 64, everything changed for those who followed Christ. They were scattered throughout the Roman empire and beyond. While Nero was likely to blame, he chose to place the blame on the Chiristians, taking himself out of the picture.

These followers of Christ faced opposition from every side. As their numbers grew, the Roman empire became less tolerant of them, as they did not follow the empire’s laws and worship the emperor or join the Roman army, and they faced punishment from the authorities if they didn’t comply. Eventually, they would even be put to death because of their faith. They also faced opposition from the Jews. While many outside the faith viewed them as a Jewish sect, the Jews did not want to be associated with them. They drove them out of town and even turned them in to the Roman government. For many believers, they even faced opposition from their families. In Roman times, the head of the household had the ultimate authority. Unless the head of the household also became a believer, those who chose to follow Christ were disowned and sent away, facing extreme hardships with no one to rely on but other Christ followers.

The message Peter wrote to these believers was full of hope despite difficult circumstances. While we may not face that same persecution, we can also be encouraged in the midst of our own trials and sufferings.

Passages we’ll review:
1 Peter 3:13-17; Psalm 34:11-22

OPENING
What stood out to you from the message this week? What led you to really think? Did anything challenge you? Have you ever had to share something that you really loved, something that had immense value to you?

On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being nerves of steel, how good would you say you are at controlling your temper? How does that change when you are treated wrongly or insulted?

READ

Read 1 Peter 3:13-17

As we see with the early Christian church, suffering and persecution was a given for anyone who chose to believe. Peter reminds us later in verse 18 that we are not the first ones to experience this, as Christ suffered for us that we might live!

What examples have you seen of people being harmed or punished for doing good? Was the reason for the harm inflicted on them well-intentioned or malicious? Explain.

Have you ever faced persecution for your beliefs? How did you respond?

How can suffering for doing good be a blessing?

Peter reminds us not to fear the threats or intimidation of others, because ultimately, Christ is in control! In difficult times, we may be tempted to turn away from God and choose worldly things, but we must remember not to give in to the fear we feel.
—Editor’s Note

What does Peter tell us to do in the face of opposition? (List all)

Which of these is hardest to do in your life? Why do you think it is so hard?

What can we do in a practical way to set apart, or sanctify, Christ as Lord in our hearts?

When we choose to follow Christ, we don’t just go on auto-pilot. We MUST be focused and have our heart and mind set on Him! We have to think according to His Word, seek to have the mind of Christ, and understand and live out the truths given in His Word.
—Editor’s Note

What does it mean when Peter tells us to “always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you?”

How can we effectively “give a defense” in a world with so many different beliefs and perspectives?

Why are gentleness and respect so important in sharing our faith? How can you be gentle and respectful when defending your faith and hope in Christ?

Have you ever had to explain why you react or live differently because of your faith? Share your experience.

As we honor Christ in this way, we can be used by Him to expose the problems in the world around us. When we respond with a good conscience, we don’t have to worry about getting caught in a lie or stirring up trouble, rather we can allow our words and actions to speak for us.
—Editor’s Note

In verse 17, Peter describes two types of suffering. What are they? In your life, which do you experience more? Discuss with your group.

DIGGING DEEPER

Read Psalm 34:11-22

This Psalm was written by David while he was being pursued. It was written as his response to the Lord’s salvation and deliverance amid dire circumstances. We must always be reminded of the importance of fearing the Lord, even in the midst of difficult times. This “fear” isn’t being afraid or intimidated, but rather our response to His holiness, majesty, and power. By fearing Him, we are giving Him our worship, reverence, and honor.

Who are the righteous?

What confidence does God show David in the midst of trouble? How does God respond to the cries of the righteous?

LET’S PRAY

“Down through the ages, whenever men might need courage, they might cry out, ‘Billy Budd, help me!’ and nothing very significant happens. But for nineteen hundred years, whenever men needed courage and have cried out, ‘Lord Jesus, help me!’ something has happened.” (C.S. Lewis)

Consider the following as you pray together:

1. What is the most challenging part for you: Keeping an active faith in Jesus? Speaking boldly and compassionately? Or living out your faith for others to see? Take time this week to go to Him for strength to overcome the challenge and reach out to those who don’t know Him.
   

2. Look back at the characteristics of a righteous person. Choose one that you can focus on this week and make it a part of your life as you live for Him!
   

3. Take time this week to write out a short prayer praising God for His deliverance and protection, even in times of trouble. He is our source of hope and strength!