Scripture: 1 Peter 4:1-6
Background: Most likely written under the power of Emperor Nero around 64-67 AD. Peter is at the height of his influence in the church and he uses that influence to “shepherd the flock” that has been entrusted to him by Jesus. Peter wrote this book with the intention of encouraging believers in Jesus to persevere through the current circumstance. He also desired that the leaders would lead them well as though they are doing it for Jesus, the Chief Shepherd.
Lesson: As Christ suffered in the flesh, so will His followers. This reality is a certainty, and we should not grow tried or weary. In fact, Peter says we are to actively stand in line with Jesus. Using militant language, he says that followers of Jesus are to “arm themselves” with the mindset of Christ. That means we are to have our minds set on the glorification that will come because of our relationship with Jesus. Peter says that those of us who “suffer in the flesh have ceased from sin and now live for the will of God.” What an encouraging thought: We are awaiting a glory that is certain and it’s all because of the relationship that we have with Jesus.
Main Point/Takeaway: Those of us who “suffer in the flesh have ceased from sin and now live for the will of God.”
Questions: (These questions are suggestions designed to spur discussion. Feel free to ask others.)
1: Read 1 Peter 3:18-4:6
1a: What connection do you see between 3:18-22 and 4:1-6?
1b: How do the connections inform your understanding of this passage?
2: What are the sufferings that Christ experienced?
2a: What do you think was His mindset throughout the sufferings?
2b: How can we “arm” ourselves with the thoughts of Christ?
3: What do you think it would look like if you were to no longer live for human passions?
3a: What do you think it would look like for you to only live for the will of God?
4: What reasons do non-Christians have to judge Christians? v. 3
5: What is the end result for the Christian who rejects the desires of the flesh?
Conclusion: In this passage Peter uses the sufferings of Jesus to encourage Christians in the midst of conflicting worldviews. When we give up the desires of our flesh, we have the opportunity to pick up the will of God. When that decision is made we will encounter even more obvious obstacles because of our decision to follow Jesus. But praise be to God that the reward of our faithfulness is security in Jesus Christ.