The Christian Life: Live Rejoicing
Life Group Questions
Key Verses: 1 Peter 4:12-19

Opening Question: Describe a time in your life full of joy.

1. Read 1 Peter 4:12
a. Peter tells his audience that they should not be surprised by the “fiery ordeal” among them. Why not?

2. Read 1 Peter 4:13
a. When is our rejoicing in Christ to end? What situation and or circumstance allows us to lose joy? What is the significance of this answer?

b. What does it look like for a believer to “share in the suffering of Christ?”

3. Read 1 Peter 4:14; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13
a. How does the Spirit of Glory (a.k.a. the Holy Spirit) help us endure suffering?

b. Discuss how being part of one Spirit and one body can help us endure suffering.

4. Read 1 Peter 4:15-16
a. I don’t know about you, but I want to lash out in kind when I am wronged. So why is it critical for believers to respond differently than our desire?

5. Read 1 Peter 4:17-19
a. What are your thoughts on God disciplining the church? Why does He do this, and what can we prevent such discipline?

Application:

• Rejoicing while suffering can be brutal, even with the help of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, pray for one another and the body at Sonrise to faithfully endure suffering, whether at the hands of non-believers or believers.

• If you have not already done so, forgive those who have been the cause of suffering in your life.