Suffering for Doing Good (1 Peter) 5-2-10 PDF  Array Print Array  E-mail
Small Group Homework

May 2, 2010
Andy Miller
1 Peter 3:8-12

1. Standing together as Christians will help us when we face difficulties and trials as individuals. What three aspects of standing together, living in harmony, being of one mind does Peter mention in verse 8?

2. What are some attitudes and feelings he might have had in mind? See Phil 2:1-5.

3. Why should we love as brothers (and sisters)? What message does this send to the world?

4. Why are kindness and humility so important?

5. Can you think of examples of when belonging to the Christian family has made all the difference when facing a trial you had to bear?

6. Peter says to not live in fear of opposition, but be positive blessings to those around us even though they do not share our faith. Look up Matt. 5:43, 44. Why is this so hard to do?

7. Peter quotes Psalm 34:12-16 to support his position in verses 10-12. How is verse 12 a help and encouragement?
Define the word "the righteous". Do you feel like God is on your side? What blessings do we receive from God which encourage us to be a blessings to others?

8. "Peter envisages Christians as a shining light for good in society even when it opposes their belief." Do you agree?

9. Andy said "You're holding on to your faith for dear life, asking, "Where are you God?" Have you been (or maybe you are now) in situations where you have asked, "Where are you God?" How did you cope and did someone throw you a lifeline? To whom did you cling and where is your hope?

10. Spend time in reflection and prayer asking God to allow you to be a blessing in someone's life this week.