Faith Journey

1 Peter 3:1-12 Our Radical Hope

Bible Scholars have described this passage as a most thorough description of the gospel. You will want to go through these verses carefully. Your workbook provides a list of truths to celebrate, descriptions of God, the believer and the hope that is ours as a believer. You should use them as a reference as you walk through this passage. PLEASE DO NOT TRY TO GET THROUGH THIS SECTION IN ONE WEEK. Many groups will take up to 3 weeks. While that is not necessary, keep in mind that the goal is not to get through the study, the goal is to understand so we can apply it to our lives.

Leader Preparation

Here are a few helpful articles that you should read prior leading your study. I've included them here so that you will be better prepared to lead your group in discussion. There are other articles in this website but I've highlighted these.

1. Word Pictures - Our Inheritance (1 Peter 1:4)

Step by Step with your Group

1. Read the objectives on page 18.
2. Read "behind the words" on page 18.

Group Discussion ideas

You have a good selection of discussion questions in your workbook. Here's a list of ideas to help you in your discussion time.

1. Have the group members read through the verses. Then, have them circle the key words, or the words that stand out to them. (eg. Praise, New Birth, Hope, Inheritance etc.)
2. Spend some time talking about the words that describe our inheritance. The article I suggested in "Leader Preparation" will help you.
3. I would divide verse 3-12 into several sections (v.3-5, v.6-7, v.8-9, v.10-12). You could have the group draw a line between verses 5 and 6 and likewise with the other sections. While the main thought is continuing, Peter does turn to a new emphasis.
4. When it comes to questions such as "How do these verses describe salvation?" Have group members make a list in their workbooks. If possible, have someone make a group list on a white board.
   

Closing off this Chapter. (Allow 15 Minutes)

Make certain you take time for the individual group members apply the truths to their lives. There are questions in the workbook that will help you make these connections. In addition, here are some ideas that will help you as the leader.

1. At the end of the session, divide your small group into groups of 3 or 4. They are to write a phrase that summarizes the major truth(s) of this section. Give them approximately 5 minutes. Come back together and share what you have found. Have them write their summary statement in the horizontal chart on page 9, 3^rd row, 2^nd column.
2. After they have completed that exercise, I always like to ask the group to think of one word that will remind them of the major truth in verses 3-12. Examples: Praise, Salvation, Inheritance to mention a few possibilities. You will be doing this exercise for each section.
3. It would be much appreciated if you were able to join the Bible Study Forum to ask questions or provide some highlights of your group time. By doing so you will help future groups as they work through their group study time.