Sermon Discussion Guide 9-15-24

1 Peter | Part 1 | Hope for those in Babylon | 1 Peter 1:1-12

Gathering Question:
Share a time when you felt like an outsider or a stranger. How did it make you feel? What was difficult or disorienting about the experience?

Gathering Prayer.
Father, by Your Spirit, would you guide us into all truth. Help us to hear and be attentive to Your voice as we work through this study. In the name of Jesus, Your Son, we pray, Amen.

Opening Questions

• What stood out to you in the sermon? 
• What insights did you gain? 
• What questions did it raise?

1 Peter 1:1-12

• In 1 Peter 1:1, Peter describes Christians as "exiles" and "foreigners." What do you think Peter means by this metaphor?
  
  

Have you ever felt like an “exile” because of your faith in today’s world? In what situations or environments do you feel most like an outsider because of your Christian beliefs?

• Despite the challenges of being an “exile,” Peter’s letter is full of hope. Look again at verses 3-9. What specific reasons does Peter give for rejoicing?

Jesus Promise | Matthew 16:18

• How do you think the promise of Matthew 16:18 would impact Peter throughout his life? 
• How does this promise encourage you in what we face in today’s world?

Put in Into Practice

• What is one area of your life where you feel challenged to live more faithfully as an exile, even when it’s uncomfortable? How can you embrace hope in that situation this week? 

Closing Prayer