Hope in Time of Trials - 1 Peter 1:3-16

This letter by Peter was written to the Christians who were enduring persecution. Our lesson background suggests that this letter was written during the time of Emperor Nero's persecutions (A.D. 62-64).

You probably have heard stories about Christians in other countries who were persecuted by their faith. You have read in your Bible about persecution. Maybe you've also read biographies of those who have been persecuted in the past.

Here in America, though, we really don't know much about persecution. We really have it pretty easy. Christianity has taken a beating in the past few years from secularism, yet Christianity is still the dominant religion in America.

Let us just suppose for a few moments that one day Christianity was outlawed in America. All churches were closed. If you were found possessing a Bible or other religious materials you would be jailed for a minimum of two years. Those who were known to attend church before are put on a watchlist by the government. In order to buy food, you must sign a statement denying Christ.

Discussion: What would you do in such a situation? How would you provide food for your family? Would you know enough of God's Word to remain spiritually healthy?

Discussion: Now imagine what it must have been like to be a Christian in the persecution of Nero. What fears, challenges, troubles did they have to overcome?

Peter wrote this letter to give the Christians hope. Hope is the theme of our text. The message Peter is sharing with us is:

Big Idea: The Christian's hope anchors him in the storms of life.

1. A Living Hope, vv. 1-5.

Discussion: Why does remembering Christ's resurrection give the Christian hope in time of trouble?

I must admit that I don't usually live on a day-to-day basis thinking about and hoping for Heaven.

Discussion: How does "keeping eternity in view" change how we live?

Discussion: How do we go about maintaining an eternal perspective in the midst of a hectic and trouble-filled life?

Discussion: Verse five says we are "kept by the power of God." What are the implications of those words?

2. A Rejoicing Hope, vv. 6-12.

Discussion: Do you usually feel like rejoicing when you are going through troubling times?

Discussion: In these verses, there are two reasons why the Christian should rejoice in times of trial, what are they?
(The testing of our faith brings Christ's praise, the continuing of our faith brings Christ's final salvation of our souls)

Discussion: What are some of the impurities in your faith?

Peter says that in these times of trouble, "ye rejoice with joy unspeakable." When I go through troubling, refining moments, I don't usually feel very happy. I especially don't have much unspeakable joy.

Discussion: How can we train ourselves to see the larger picture of life so that we can rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory?

3. A Demanding Hope, vv. 13-16.

Read the first three paragraphs of the "Key" Comments.

Discussion: Why is it important to be a "deep thinker"?

Discussion: How does one develop a disciplined mind?

Read comments on verse fourteen.

Discussion: What is/are the pattern(s) of the old life?

Discussion: Would you say you live every moment of the day according to the command, "So be ye holy in all manner of conversation?"

Discussion: Are there changes you need to make in order to "be holy"?

Prayer: