Study on The Books of Peter

With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it. 1 Peter 5:12

Peter and Jude are writing to Christians who are oppressed, confused, and struggling, seeking to live for Christ in a world that not only does not understand but also persecutes those of the faith. In the midst of the oppressions from the world and family, come people who seek to deceive and entice them to live for sin and not for Christ. Peter and Jude encourage, challenge, and give them the hope to remain in Christ. At the same time, Peter and Jude do not hold back from telling them where they are in error and admonishing them to be aware and be on guard to live for Christ, putting on His virtues and not the worlds. Both of Peter’s epistles and Jude are as relevant today as they were nearly two thousand years ago because what they went through, we go through, too! They needed hope and encouragement just as we do—whomever, whenever, and wherever we are!

Along comes Peter—the Apostle of Hope! First Peter is a letter about the hope we have in Christ, regardless of what we experience or face. He gives us the ultimate weapon to fight discouragement—the ultimate hope that what we face and go through is temporary. Peter is telling us that Jesus offers His forgiveness and grace, then enables and empowers us. He indeed has a plan and a purpose for us!

General idea: God’s grace and abundant mercy is available to us both now and as an inheritance to come! This passage is about salutations and greetings, acknowledgments and hope. Peter writes to a group of struggling Christians, whose hope is on the verge of extinction and whose options are limited. These are mostly Jews who have been disconnected from their homeland and all that they know, but also Gentile converts who are scattered from their families, careers, and status because of their faith. They are all really aliens in a foreign land; they are all—both Jew and Gentile—scattered physically and spiritually. Now, they realize, when we are in Christ, we are all foreigners as the world is not our real or permanent home; rather, our true home is to come. We become scattered from all that we know and need so to honor and embrace our Lord Jesus Christ more firmly, more fully, and more joyfully—to enjoy Him.

Thus, Peter starts off his letter with a song of praise for what God has done, so we can express our gratitude and worship to Him (Eph. 1:2-14). Then he gives us a litany of loaded theological words filled with power and meaning, showing us who our God is and, more prevalently, what He has done for us. We have to realize—for the ability to survive and to thrive on this earth—we are precious in His sight! We have a Hope Who is real for us now and eternally. He gives us kindness, protection, and understanding beyond what we can fathom, love and forgiveness beyond comprehension, and the ultimate gift of our salvation that will never decay even when we totally do not deserve nor could ever merit it. We have a precious inheritance, expectation, privilege, and power in Jesus Christ, our loving Savior and Lord. We have HOPE!

Vs. 1-2: These early Christians were desperate and needed protection from the attacks of the world around them. Peter is reassuring them, confidently and deeply, telling them the blessing of God’s special favor is upon them. The blessings are realized when the more we stay firm in our faith, the more protection is given to us. Peter tells us we are aliens in a hostile world; yet, at the same time, we have the grace and love of our merciful God at hand. Then, he springs on us the incredible, theological wonder of what Christ did for us! This passage also references the three Persons of the Trinity!

· Peter. This is Simon, whom Jesus changed to Pete (see background material for more info). He was one of Jesus’ first disciples, and was a principal leader in the early church (Matt. 15:15; 18:21; Mark 1:26-37; 8:29; 9:5-6; Luke 12:41; John 6:68; Acts 10:18; 15:14; 2 Peter 1:1). Peter was given the special call of feeding the sheep and being the foundation of the church (Mark 1:16-18; 5:37; 9:2; 14:33; John 21:15-19). (See Peter background article for further information.)

· Apostle. The word, Apostle (Apostolos), means emissary, or sent one, as in Jesus’ personally commissioned representatives (Matt. 10:40; 15:24; Mark 6:7-13; 30; 9:37; Luke 9:1-6; 48; John 4:34; 5:24, 30, 36-38; 6:38; 1 Cor. 1:1; 9. 1-2; 2 Cor. 8:23; Gal. 1:1; Col. 1:1; Heb. 3:1). They also had to be an eye witness of the resurrection (Acts 1:22; 1 Cor. 15:8), and they governed the early church (1 Cor. 14:37; 1 Thess. 2:13; 4:8, 15; 2 Thess. 3:6, 14; 2 Pet. 3:15-16). In 2 Corinthians, the words, representatives/messengers, are also used for apostle in a broader sense (2 Cor. 1:1; 8:23; Phil. 2:25). This title does not apply today; it is reserved only for the original twelve plus Paul. Today, all Christians are emissaries (2 Cor. 5:20). Also today, this role is filled by Elders (Acts 20:28; 1 Cor. 12:7, 11, 28; Eph. 4:11)! Thus, the original Apostles started the church and the Elders today continue to run the church.

· Pilgrims/ elect, strangers referred to the Jewish Christians who were on a journey, scattered from their mission, work, and family, some even fleeing from persecution. Chapter 2:10 gives us a clearer picture of their work amongst the Gentiles, too. The word “saints” is used in 2 Corinthians 1:1 as a general term, and here, referring to people who are in Christ. The word we use now is “Christians,” which comes about later (Acts 26:28; Rom. 15:25; Phil. 1:1; 1 Pet. 4:16).

· Dispersion (Greek diaspora) means “dispersed” or “isolated,” a colloquialism that referred to the Jews who had scattered, or moved away from their homeland (John 7:35; 1 Pet. 1:17; 2:11). For us, it means we are “resident aliens” living in a foreign world; our real home is in Heaven to come (1 Chron. 29:15; Psalm 39:12; Heb. 13:14). This epistle was an “encyclical” letter, meaning it was copied and sent out to many churches in Asia Minor. The sequence of the names of the readers in this epistle may reflect the courier’s route and schedule, or those who were on Peter’s heart.

· Elect here means our privilege to be eternally called in Christ, and that our salvation is secured by God’s grace alone, received by our faith alone (1 Pet. 2:9-10). Elect or election in biblical theology means “to select” or “to choose,” that God chose us by His purpose and nothing else. Because, if it was accordingly by His foreknowledge, that would mean it was by our future means, therefore the need and work of Christ would be thwarted (John 17:24; Eph. 1:3-14; 2 Thess. 2:13-14; 2 Tim. 1:9-10). Divine election is a continuous theme in Paul's Epistles (Rom. 8:29-33; 9:6-26; 11:5, 7, 28; 16:13; Col. 3:12; 1 Thess. 1:4; 2 Thess. 2:13; Titus 1:1).

We cannot fathom this true implication, meaning, or reasoning. We have to trust that God is God and we are not; thus, we have no idea of His plan or purpose. All Christian groups who use the Bible teach election; the division is in its meaning and purpose, which God has not revealed to us, and about which we can only speculate. We only know what He has revealed and that He does elect; our call is to trust and obey (1 Cor. 1:8-9; Phil.1:6; 1 Thess. 1:3-6; 5:23-24; 2 Tim. 1-12; 4:18; 2 Pet. 1:10). Our purpose is not to argue over this, but to accept His amazing grace.

· Foreknowledge refers to God as sovereign and “omniscient,” meaning He is all-knowing, crossing time and space; thus, He knows the future. This is where “predestination” comes from, (Gen. 4:1; Psalm 90; Amos 3:2; Mal. 1:2; Matt 1:25; 1 Cor. 1:9;) that God's plan is sovereign and eternal. We have a personal plan and agenda to follow, a purpose that is God's. The argument in theology is not that He elects us; rather by what means God uses His foreknowledge or His purpose. The book of Romans says it is by His purpose. Human reason says it is by God seeing ahead.

· Sanctification here means the application of our redemption, of setting us apart from sin (Gal. 6:14; 2 Thess. 2:13). This is the growth we have and do in Christ—in our trust and obedience that He provides. This is not saving action; it is a response action where we become more like Christ's character. The work of the Spirit intercedes in us; our response is our progressive growth and spiritual formation in Him (Gal. 2:20; Eph. 2:1-10; Luke 24:26; John 15; 17:2; Phil. 3:10; 1 Thess. 4:3; Heb. 2:10).

· Obedience means our continual acts of trusting in God and obeying His precepts (John 6:28-29; Eph. 1:3-4; 2 Tim. 1:9). We are chosen for obedience! This is not initiated by us, only a response by us. This is our part—our result, answer, and responsibility to His election and sanctification. This leads us to the Will of God, which is God’s sovereignty and control, and He places us where we need to be for His glory (2 Cor. 1:1-3).

· The blood of Christ refers to the O.T. rituals of sacrifice and the sprinkling of blood for redemption, which Christ now takes the place of. It was the initiation of the Covenant of God to Israel; now, it is the Covenant of God to us. It also now means we have a covenant that we are forgiven (Gen. 4:10; Ex. 24:7-8; Luke 9:23-24; 23:34; Heb. 9:11-14, 18-28; 12:24; 1 John 1:7).

· Grace…peace is a standard greeting meaning a pronouncing of a blessing or God’s special favor upon someone. These would be cool, quenching words for Christians in distress! The blessing is that we are right with God, no matter what happens, when we are in relationship with Christ our Redeemer (Isa. 44:6; Jonah 4:2; John 14:27; 20:19; Rom. 5:1-2; Gal. 1:3; Eph. 1:2)!

· Suffering, Glory. The greater our suffering, the greater we become in Him. We shine in His glory and shine His glory to others when we endure trials and learn and grow from them.

The key words of chosen, elect, foreknew, and predestined have been topics of hot debate amongst many Christian groups over the centuries. The principle theme is agreed upon, that God does choose us and makes us holy—to which this passage attests and the rest of the Bible clearly proclaims. If He did not, we could never obtain salvation on our own (Gen. 45:8; 50:20; Job 14:5; Psalm 33:13-14; 115:3; 147:5; Prov. 5:21; 15:3; 16:1, 4, 9, 33; Is. 14:26-27; Dan. 4:33-34; John. 1:13; Acts 2:23; Rom. 8:29-30; 9:9-18; 1 Pet. 1:1, 20).

The debate rages over how He chooses: by His Sovereign purpose (which the Reformers believed) or by His foreknowledge (as many Evangelicals today believe.) Such debates, although invigorating and insightful to know more and establish a position, sometime cause us to ignore the main thing—that God is God, He loves us, He chooses us, He makes us holy, and now, because of what He did for us, we are to spend our energies growing and serving Him. What we are not to do is make a nuisance of ourselves by spending all of our energies in supercilious debate, and ignoring what Jesus did, so it does not impact our lives. The key thing we forget is our obedience and faith development, which is far more important in God’s eyes than getting the particulars of theology correct. Correct theology is very important because it teaches us who God is! But, our faith development is even more important, because it is our response to what God did!

This passage is a call to continue in prayer and faithfulness. In that way, we can continue to be better used by our Lord. We are to remain firm in our stand of faith even when life is falling apart around us, and when we do not see hope or the light at the end of the tunnel. The call is to be encouraged and to stand firm. When we persevere in our faith, we allow God to use us even more where we are. Then, we learn and we grow further in Him, which helps us grow and be used more. This is circular. The more we endure, the more we grow. Then, the more we are used, the more we go through and so forth. This is the spiral of our faith-building that draws us higher in Him. When we are growing, we are ministering, too. As our faith grows, we are more likely to hear God’s call, see the needs of others, and find opportunities to serve. Our faith development is not to be selfish, although the primary benefit is for ourselves, but we also are to see how it affects others. When we grow, then we inspire, encourage, and minister to others faster and better!

So what is our call in this? To be joyful, thankful, and glad! To honor and enjoy our inherence and love that we have received, so it overflows to others around us. Then, we can grow and endure through all things! Why? Because, we will face trials and sufferings, they are a part of this world and life. There is no escape from them. We can either learn to grow or withdraw and stagnate!

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. How scattered is your family and how often do you have reunions? Have you ever felt disconnected from your home and all that you know?

2. Why do you suppose Peter starts off his letter with a song of praise? Have you ever done that in your correspondences? Why, or why not?

3. What would a blessing or God’s special favor mean to you? What is it? How could you receive it?

4. What does it mean to you that God’s grace and abundant mercy are available to you now as well as being an inheritance to come?

5. If your hope was on the verge of extinction, your options limited, and you felt desperate, what would it take to reassure you? How have you responded to people in these circumstances?

6. Have you realized that when we are in Christ, we are all foreigners? This world is not our real or permanent home; rather, our true home is to come! What does this mean for your trust and growth in Him?

7. A lot of Christians today do not see the importance of theology. Why is that?

8. Why is correct theology very important? Why is responding to what God did even more important? How do these two go together?

9. Have you realized the incredible, theological wonder of what Christ did for you? Who He is and what He is? Well, this is all about theology; thus, to know, grow in, and worship Christ, we have to know Him, and that is to know theology. So, what do you think of this? What are you going to do about theology?

10. Some misguided Christians think they are “apostles.” Why do you suppose that a person would make that claim when Scripture tells us clearly what an apostle is?

11. How does it make you feel that the greater our suffering, the greater we become in Him? Does this scare you? What can you do to take comfort in this and not be scared?

12. How can the favor of God speak cool, quenching words to Christians in distress? So, what can you and your church do to be better at being a cool refresher to others in need or distress?

Remember, the continual acts of trusting in God and obeying His precepts are our part and responsibility. This will help us enjoy our inherence and love in Christ and receive a blessing of God’s special favor.

General idea: We are chosen and given our new birth! We live in hope! As Christians, we have God’s abundant mercy, hope, and assurance so we can praise God for His grace and salvation! In our new life, we are set apart, as we have salvation and an eternal inheritance available to us! God makes us holy in His sight and relevant for life here and now as well as for the eternity to come.

This passage is about our God’s most abundant mercy, love, and grace, given to us, without merit, before the foundations of matter and time. He loves and cares for us beyond any depth or limit, beyond any human comprehension. This inheritance is given to us so we can declare it to others. We know Christ because He has made Himself known to us so we can make Him known to others.

All this is a result of His sacrifice of redemption, His permanence, and His love for us. He lived, died, and rose again for you and me! All we are to do is trust and obey Him, and as we continue in this endeavor, He gives us even more empowerment for enduring life and performing ministry along with His special favor and peace! Even if we do not see Jesus, He sees us, loves us, and helps us persevere. This may seem unattainable or even unfathomable when we are under stress or the hostile occupation of life. However, we can do this because we have access to His empowerment; we are literally kept by God through faith. As we grow in our faith, we become even more precious to God and He will preserve us through trials and life.

Vs. 3-5: Christ is our living Hope that will never fade away! We are chosen by God and by God alone! The Spirit sets us apart. We are able to hear and receive His Words of grace and life. We need to be reminded of what we have and who we are in Christ. If not, we will soon forget and replace His guidance either with our frailty or with the ways of the world.

· Praise be /Blessed be the God. This word, berakah, comes from Jewish blessings, and means the God Who blesses us. It also means rebirth—that God converts or “re-births” us. It is the theme that, as Christians, we are born again because God adopts and changes our nature as in starting again as new (Jer. 1:11-12; Ezek. 36:24-27; Mic. 1:10-15; John 3; 7:37-39). In Peter’s time, this phrase also referred to Gentiles who converted to Judaism. Now, He switches it to those who converted to Christ as their new living Hope, inheritance, security, and God.

· Abundant mercy. This phrase continues from the previous phrase of God’s blessing, and refers to how lovingly God goes out of His way to redeem us.

· Begotten us again/given us new birth. It is God who gives us new birth (John 1:12-13, 3:3-8, 16).

· Living hope is one of the main, running themes of this epistle. It does not indicate wishing or thinking positively; rather, it refers to the confidence and conviction we have that our living God keeps His promises and secures us in Him. It is the assurance—and fact—that God has redeemed us, will bless us, and will care for us (1 Peter 1:13, 21; 3:15).

· Inheritance means the “substance” of the hope we have in Christ. It refers to salvation—our deliverance from sin; we are God’s children, sealed in Him and joint-heirs with Him by His Work (Rom. 8:16-17; Heb. 1:14). For the Jews, this meant inheriting a future world such as Israel’s inheritance of the Promised Land while wandering the desert. It infers redemption and the process God used to redeem us. To the Jews, then, it meant treasures stored up in Heaven for them (4 Ezra—a Jewish apocryphal book). For us, by Jesus’ righteousness and our obedience, our treasures are also stored up, while we still have opportunities now.

· Kept/shielded/reserved means that the righteous will be saved and the deeds of the wicked will be known. Salvation produces hope and joy. He is our living Hope that will not fade away! This bond ties us to the responsibility of responding to what our God has done for us. He gives us faith; we are responsible for keeping the faith going and growing because we will be delivered from those who oppose us (Eph. 6:16; Phil. 2:12-13; 1 Pet. 5:8-9).

· Power of God, a military term to vigilantly defend a fort, means the priority, vigilance, and permanence of God’s grace and protection He gives to help us keep our faith going and growing (Rom. 8:23, 30; 13:11; 1 Cor. 1:18; 2 Tim. 1:9; Titus 3:5).

· Last time refers to Christ’s second coming and connects verse 7, the revelation of Jesus Christ and testing. In the End Times, there will be great testing and sufferings.

Vs. 6-9: We are to love Him, even though we cannot see Him or touch Him. This may go against common sense, but the reality of His grace and impact can sometimes be hidden by our desires, circumstances, and feelings. This is the test of faith and trust, if we see no hope, we then must look to our Lord; then the hope is given and can be seen. The reward of our faith far outweighs any endurance or struggle we face. The joy we have is real and significant (John 20:29).

· Tested…be found, refers to a “crucible” for the refining of precious metals resulting in the quality refinement brings. Testing is compared to sufferings as a “crucible” which is a container made from a refractory substance such as graphite or porcelain, used for melting and purifying precious metals (such as gold) at high temperatures to separate impurities so to produce a finer and more valuable material, such as 14 carat gold made into 24 carat gold. We are purified and refined when we go through the effects and substances of life. They have a purpose; nothing happens to us without a reason that is meant to teach and grow us (Job 23:10; Psalm 12:6; Prov. 17:3; Isa. 43:2; Jer. 11:4; 1 Cor. 4:3-5; 1 Pet. 1:5; 4:13; 5:1).

· Receiving. We have received His grace and are called to enjoy our relationship with Christ. This brings us peace, but the fruition of our faith is still to come in eternity. Our deliverance is still to come! Our testing should bring joy and comfort, even with dire stress, because God is still carrying and loving us through it and we will be better, stronger, and purer for it. We will be of better use to Him and to all those around us. The key to get through it is in seeing Christ as the goal and being more like Him in character, rather than focusing on the situations in which we find ourselves. Persecution was the main testing that Peter’s readers were facing.

· Souls. This means our self—the core of who we are as an individual person—same as the spirits in prison (1 Pet. 3:20).

Vs. 10-12: Do you realize that the prophets of old desperately desired and sought what we have—that which is free, and that we take for granted? Never take your faith or what Christ has done for you for granted. If you do, your spiritual journey will derail, your faith will stagnate, and the hopeless gloom of the world will be your only “vesper” (a bell that summons monks to pray). You will be seeking what is feeble and worthless and disavow what is real and jubilant. We are to declare our faith internally, see its veracity and application, and then declare it publicly.

· Manner of time/find out the time is a statement meaning the coming of the Messiah, which Christ fulfilled. It means the prophets foretold there would be suffering and that the Messiah would suffer as well as be exalted. Purpose and meaning in life were often considered mysterious to the Jew. However, for us, it has been fully revealed; it is to know Christ and make Him known (Isa. 7:14; 9:6; 11:1; Dan. 12:6-9).

· The Spirit of Christ. This is one of the names for the Holy Spirit, meaning Christ sent Him. It does not denote that Jesus is the Spirit; the Trinity is three Persons in one Essence—one God, with three personalities or manifestations. Here, the Spirit intercedes, breaking the sin barrier of our heart to give us redemption. In the O.T., servants of God were given glimpses and parts of the Spirit working in them, empowering them for a specified function (Gen. 41:38; Num. 27:18; Acts 2:33; 16:6-7; Rom. 8:9-10; 1 Cor. 15:45; Gal. 4:6; Phil. 1:19; 1 Pet. 4:14).

· It was revealed refers to the mysteries to which God gave the O.T. prophets a glimpse—of things to come that were to benefit and encourage future generations. We do not know what they were exactly—probably the Gospel message of Christ. However, for us, this refers to the message of the Gospel being infused by the Holy Spirit and then lived out in our lives; it is that Jesus Christ, being fully God, lived in behalf of us, took our place for God’s wrath, suffered in our place, and redeemed us. It is a call to us to be the messengers of the Gospel along with the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:25-27, 45-47).

· Holy Spirit sent from Heaven refers to the role of the Spirit to inspire and direct—from the books of the Bible to the messages of the Prophets to the hearers of God’s Word. It also means that the place of origin, the source of the Gospel message, and that is only from the Holy Spirit. Even though we evangelize, only the Holy Spirit can cause the Word to make sense and allow it to be received by the person (John 3:3-6; Acts1:8; Rom. 8:14; 1 Cor. 12:3; Gal. 4:6).

· Angels desire to look. The celestial beings may seem ominous to us, but they are created beings and have limited knowledge. They have the same emotions and will that we have—the reason 1/3 of them fell—and they are curious and interested in the things of God—the reason 2/3 remained loyal to God. God, who had not told them everything, now made His plan known (Eph. 3:10).

God does not test us to bring us harm nor does He seek to cause us to fail. Rather, He wants to see if our faith and commitment are real and brings us into situations where we can learn and grow in faith and so receive our reward. We can take comfort in trials, as God is still sovereign over them. His purpose is to refine us, form us, mold us, improve us, restore us, grow us, and strengthen us. Testing can also be used to bring us to contemplate our attitude, mindset, and deeds so we can seek repentance and so we will “wake up,” see our error, and seek Him. He does this much as a loving parent disciplines a child. Other times, God tests to bring about discipline, justice, and judgment. Jews believe that suffering brings atonement, but this is not what Peter means; rather, that faith is a precious commodity to God (Gen. 11:1-f; Deut. 8:2; 13:3; Judg. 2:22; Job. 23:10; Rom. 5:3; James 1: 2-4, 12-16; 1 Pet. 4:17; 5:1-4, 8).

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Have you ever inherited anything? How did you feel about it? What kind of inheritance would you like to leave your family one day?

2. Think this question through: What does it mean to you that you are personally chosen, given new birth, are able to live in hope, and are given abundant mercy and assurance by God?

4. Even if you do not see Jesus, how can you have the confidence that He sees you, loves you, and helps you persevere?

5. When you are under the stresses and hostile occupations of life, what can you do to move away from stress and seeing only your situation to seeking the improving of your faith?

6. How have you been purified and refined, as you have gone through the trials of life? What would happen to your faith, character, and spiritual formation if you never went through any trials?

7. How can knowing that trials have a purpose and reason help you focus away from anger to being willing to learn and grow from them?

8. Do you feel, deeply, that God literally keeps you through faith? If so, why? If not, why not? What can you do about it?

9. Do you realize that as you grow in your faith, you become even more precious to God and He will preserve you through trials and life? How does this make you feel? How does this strengthen you?

10. Do you realize that what we have free of charge—what Christ has done, and what we may take for granted—the Prophets of Old so desperately desired and sought? So, what can you do to prevent yourself from ever taking for granted your faith or what Christ has done for you?

11. How and why do you need to be reminded of what you have and who you are in Christ? How can this fact give you more confidence, conviction and assurance in your daily life?

12. What can you do to show your love to Christ, even though sometimes we don’t see Him or feel Him? How will this help you see Him? How can your faith in Him give you comfort that the reward of your faith far outweighs any struggles you face?

These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10:11-13

General idea: We are called to get our minds lined up with God—His Way, His precepts, and His plan. We still have the old sinful nature residing within us. God declares us clean, but we do not become completely clean. Perhaps, the reason for this is that if we were “scrubbed clean,” we would not face the struggles in life that produce depth and holiness. We would never struggle with thoughts, desires, sin, and life; therefore, we would not learn, grow, and respond to God within the realties of life. We would be robots, preprogrammed to respond—and such mechanisms do not produce real fruit or love.

Thus, we have to exercise self-control. In addition, as with all exercise, we gain the strength and endurance that provide the fortitude and courage to engage life. Along with faith, we have the staying power—for all we experience in life—to be His child and be a blessing to Him and others around us. God does not just command us to be self-controlled; He gives us a reason to remain in our faith development. He will give us His wondrous, special blessings for our trust and obedience. His reward is His salvation and the rewards in eternity. However, we are also given the strength to enjoy life and make the most of what we have now!

Therefore, Peter urges us not to slip back into our old ways, because they will cause us to slip away from God’s best and blessings. We are His children. Like all children, we need structure and discipline and to know we are loved. God has this for us!

Vs. 13-16: We are called to be holy! Do you have problems with containing your desires and thinking? Do you seek the distractions of the world that will cause you to stray off God’s path? Perhaps, what we need is a further realization of the boundless love Christ has for us so we will seek to please Him and not our desires. Because, His way is better than any plan we could produce on our own. Before we were Christians, we did not know better. Now, as Christians, we do know better. Therefore, we must remain self-controlled and holy!

· Gird up the loins of your mind/prepare your minds is a vivid call to action. It refers to tucking one’s robe into one’s belt to move faster. This also alludes to the Passover (Ex.12:11). It means to be prepared as in “fasten your seat belt,” not because you will crash, but in case you do. We are called to guard our mind so we can always be prepared and ready (Eph. 6:10; 1 Pet. 3:15). This also means our spiritual formation is to be continual. So, to be prepared takes action and application on our part. It is not a free ride where we just sit and wait. Our spiritual journey requires our active participation. We should be ready to follow Him because we are redeemed (verses 4 &19).

· Sober/self controlled. This is also called “sobriety.” It is not just about abstinence from alcohol, but, rather, being dignified and self-controlled—willing and able to be clear-headed. A person does not have self-control when he/she is drunk. However, this applies to anything—not just drinking and drugs.

· Obedient children means we are adopted into God's family and are made new. So, because of what Christ has done, we should be willing to be obedient (Rom. 8:15; Gal. 5:1; Col. 3:1-4, 1 Pet. 1:2-3, 22). Obedience means that, as Christians, we are to submit to what God requires of us; we are to follow His precepts regardless of the circumstances (Deut.13: 4; 1 Sam. 15:22; Prov. 19:16; Acts 5:29; John 14:14; 15:14; 2 Cor. 10:5; Heb. 13:17; 1 John 1:7).

· Called you. God effectually takes the initiative. He seeks us, He motivates us, He picks us up; but we still have to reach out and grab His Hand and respond! In this context, it is about our portrayal and obedience just as a child obeys and portrays a father.

· Be holy means to set one’s self apart, in a distinct manner, so to be identified and positioned in and with God and not in or with the world. It also means to be “set apart” from sin and its influences as “garbage-in-creates-garbage-out.” God called the Israelites to be set apart from the other nations. They were to worship God and then influence the other nations for God. At the same time, they were not to be contaminated by them. When they succeeded, they were blessed. When they failed, they were judged and taken into captivity. For us, it means we are not to be influenced by sin, so we are able to serve and please God, strive for moral purity, and benefit others (Lev. 11:44; 19:2; 20:7, 26; Hab 1:13; Matt 5:48; Eph. 5:1; 1 Pet. 2:9).

We can learn and become responsible in our faith so we can persevere and completely trust in our living, loving Lord. When this comes about, we will not lose hope but be able to stand for as long as necessary in whatever situation we face.

Vs. 17-21: We may think that God plays favorites, as some people just seem blessed while others are under constant struggle. However, we can take comfort that God does not play favorites; we all are His favorites. Blessings of the world are never a sign of God’s favor; they will fade. The faith we exercise will only build and we will come to see more bountiful blessings than we could ever have imagined. God is more concerned about what we do with what we have than with what we have! Always remember that Christ is our living Hope that will never fade away. Because He paid for us, we owe Him more than we could ever know!

· Father. This is Heavenly Father to the Jews as they called upon God in prayer.

· Without partiality. God crowns us with His gifts. Thus, we can take comfort that God loves and treats us all the same. God does not show favoritism; He calls us to be unprejudiced, too. He does not condemn us for our wrongs because we have His grace, but God does judge us for our wrongs and rewards us for our obedience. He will reward us just for being in Him and for our merits (Isa. 53:4-5; Rom. 2:11; 14:10-12; 1 Cor. 3:12-15; James 2:11; 1 Pet. 2:24).

· Your stay/strangers means un-naturalized aliens, people who are not native or are not pursuing residency. Therefore, he is saying to watch how you conduct yourself and your loyalties. This refers to the sojourn of life, that we are not here permanently but, rather, are “pilgrims” on a journey until we reach our permanent home in eternity (Acts 10:34).

· Fear is how we are to come before God, and with humbleness (1 Pet. 5:6). It is a term of endearment and respect that is supercharged with more meaning and power because it infers intense reverence and awe of God and His holiness (Job 28:28; Prov. 1:7; 3:5; 8:13; 9:10; 16:6; 31:30; Psalm 2:11; 34:11; 111:10; Isa. 12:6; Eccl. 12: 13; Mal. 1:14; Matt. 10: 27-33; Rom. 2:11; James 2:1). It does not mean being afraid of Him, rather fearful of His wrath (Romans 3).

· Redeemed is a term meaning the freeing of a slave by the paying of his/her debt. We are freed from the bondage of sin by the great cost of His sacrifice of His shed blood that gives us "justification." He frees us from the "curse of the law" and “wickedness” (Ex. 13:13; 21:30; Matt. 20:28; Mark 10:45; Rom. 3:24; 8:2; Gal. 3:13; Eph. 1:7; Col 1:14; Titus 2:14; Heb. 9:15; Rev. 5:9).

· Aimless conduct/empty way of life was a retort to the pagan worship services that had no meaning and led people to sin and harm themselves and others. Such conduct is futile and empty (Rom. 1:21; Eph. 4:17). It has no purpose other than to deceive and to destroy. This conduct is not limited to pagan practices, but for anything that distracts us from loving and worshiping our Lord, such as desires and traditions (Jer. 2:5; Mark 7:8-13; Acts 14:15)!

· Like sliver and gold infers, in this context, that these metals are not valuable. As under Nero, there was mass inflation and gold was devaluing and fading away as a commodity. Do not trust in anything that fades away!

· Lamb is the picture of our Lord Jesus Christ. He represents the only effective and ultimate sacrifice; He takes away the sin of the world. The sacrificial animal of the Passover in the O.T. is the foreshadowing of what Christ will do and has done for us. The price was invaluable and could not have been paid by human measures (Ex. 12:3; Isa. 53:7; John 1:29; 1 Cor. 5:7; Heb. 9:14).

· Without blemish. The O.T. sacrificial animals had to be perfect in breed and form with no defect; if not, they were not valuable enough for a sacrifice. Those who sacrificed such blemished animals were dishonoring God. Jesus was unblemished because of the sinless life He led on our behalf. Some Jews take offence because Jesus was whipped and scarred before His sacrifice, that He was blemished and could not take away our sins. But, they misunderstand what blemished means for Jesus and us. It is not our bodies; it is our sinful nature and soul. Jesus was without sin and thus unblemished (Lev. 22:20-25; Heb. 4:15; 7:26-27).

· Foreordained/chosen means foreknew. He knows all that was, is, and will come. He is “omniscient.” Here, it is referring to the fact that Jesus has always existed and was chosen as our Redeemer before we were even created (John 17:24; Ac 2:17; Eph. 1:4; 1 Tim. 4:1; 2 Tim. 3:1; Heb. 1:1; 1 John 2:18; Rev 13:8).

· Last times does not necessarily refer to the actual final days of our existence as in the second coming is around the corner. Rather, it means the period from the resurrection to His second coming. In other words, the present time (Acts 2:17; Heb. 1:2).

· Through Him means that Jesus is the only access that humanity has to God. He is our High Priest and Mediator. We do not need to go to any person to present ourselves before God; Jesus does this for us (John 1:18; 14:6; 1 Pet. 3:18).

Most people get discouraged when they are no longer in control. But, we have to realize that God still is in control. Thus, when our eyes are fixed on God, we will never lose hope (Psalm 62:8; 2 Cor. 1:3-7)!

How is your “fertility?” That is, how is the fruit of the Spirit that should be growing in and through you and that is meant to come through you in all things? Our faith will be tested—not to attack or cause us to fail—but to teach us to be more faithful, stronger, and better so we can be better to those around us. God wants us holy and pure in Him.

To make us pure, He needs to prune and refine us. This is not drudgery but an opportunity to be more than we could ever be on our own. Our growth in Him means faith, spiritual maturity, and character development. These are things more precious than any gold, personal success, or financial portfolio. As we go through the tough stuff of life, we will grow and become stronger. We will worship Him more deeply and purely. We will honor Him more deeply, more relevantly, and touch the lives of others more deeply, too.

Life is not about our wants, needs, and comfort; it is about Christ working in us more powerfully and triumphantly. The key to turn on this engine of our spiritual formation is our willingness to pursue, endure, and grow. Allow the holiness of our Lord, His grace, His patience, understanding, faith, loyalty, goodness, and love to be exhibited in you—not by imitation, but with gratitude and submission, kept by His power (1 Cor. 1:30; Col. 1:27; Gal. 5:21-23; 1 Pet. 1:5)!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Do you think that you need structure and discipline? Why, or why not? What happens to children when they are not disciplined? How does this compare to adult Christians?

2. What does it mean to you to get your mind lined up with God? What would your life look life if it were not “lined up” or self-controlled?

3. Have you ever thought that God plays favorites, that some people just seem blessed while others are in a constant struggle? How can you take comfort in knowing that God loves and treats all of us the same?

5. What if you were totally “scrubbed clean” of bad desires, temptations, and sin? Would you still be able to build a deep faith and grow closer to God? Why, or why not?

6. Do you get discouraged when you are no longer in control? How does the exercise of self-control give you staying power when you are in tough situations such as temptations or trials?

7. Do you have problems in containing your desires and thinking? How would further realization of the boundless love Christ has for you help you remain disciplined to please Him?

8. Why is your spiritual formation not a “free ride?” Why does it have to be continual? What do you need to do to be prepared for active participation, action, and application in pursuing and growing in Christ?

9. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the Lamb, the only effective and ultimate sacrifice for our sins. What does this mean to you? How can you reach out, grab His hand, and respond?

10. What can you do to resist the influences of desires, bad traditions, and sin so you can become more responsible in your faith, serve and please God, strive for moral purity, and benefit others?

11. What does obedience mean to you? How have you demonstrated it? Can you recall a situation in which you were not obedient and why? How is obedience a call to action? How could your personal and spiritual life be improved with the ability to move faster in your faith?

12. How can the exercise of self-control and obedience help you submit to what God requires of you and His precepts—regardless of your circumstances? What can you do to help this better obedience come about? Can you think of a specific instance or situation?

General idea: This passage is the “therefore” of the first chapter! The word “therefore” is referring to the results, conclusions, or applications that are to be in our lives from the reasons given. This is about what we are to do with the information we have been given by our Lord. This is then combined with what Peter is saying now, such as, by being cleansed of our sins, because of our new life, and because we made our commitment in Him, we “therefore” have the call and opportunity to respond to it. We have been given the inconceivable, amazing gift of eternity and ultimate hope, contrasted to the hope we have in this world that will fade and die in meaningless and helplessness. Because we now have the Good News in us, we can get rid of all that blocks us from growing and responding to Christ as our Living Lord.

The call for us is to love, as also stated in many other parts of the Bible; we are to love authentically and sincerely. We are to love our fellow Christians and others around us without hypocrisy. This means we are not to come against others, manipulate them, or seek to control, subvert, or be jealous of them; rather, we are to encourage and spur one another on in the faith, to cooperate one with another, and by synergy, together further the Kingdom of God. We are to do this with vigor and earnestness in an active pursuit from our heart that is in Christ. This cannot be done by pretending; it has to be real, as we are called to be real in all that we do and in the stricture of love!

Vs. 22-25: We have the “right” to put our hope in whatever we feel like, such as money, career, education, position, or power; however, such hope will not last and will become meaningless. We may think these things work, but do they? Just as a cut flower will stay in a vase of water for a while but will eventually wither and die, so will our human based hopes. Our hope must rest on nothing but the real, living Hope—who is Christ the Lord! His hope will never fade because it is living and eternal. His purchase of our souls is the ultimate hope that our Living Word promises!

· Purified your souls/purified yourselves refers to the O.T. purity laws that stated that a priest must cleanse himself before entering the Lord’s Temple so he does not bring in defilement. This was both a ceremony and an actual washing to remove dirt from oneself (Isa. 1:16; Jer. 2:22; 4:14). For the Christian, it means we are called to moral and spiritual purity and holiness, to be in the world but not touched by the world (Acts 15:9; Rom. 10:16; 2 Thess. 1:8). We are purified when we obey the Truth, which enables us to grow in our spiritual formation, and show love and self-sacrificing character (Matt. 5:44; Luke 6:27, 35; 1 John 3:14-18).

· Love of the brethren simply means to love one another. This passage in 1 Peter gives us a list of reasons to do so because of what Jesus has done for us (John 13:35; 1 Cor. 13; 1 John 4:7-11).

· Born again means regeneration (John 3). The emphasis is on the past tense as it has already happened. We have been given a new nature, one that is in Christ; thus, what are we doing with it now? Being born again means we are born from above by God. It is the work of the Spirit (John 3:3-6; Rom. 8:14; 1 Cor. 12:3; Gal. 4:6; 5:22-23) while the Word of God presents the gospel as the testimony (Deut. 6:4-9; 11:17-20; 2 Tim. 3:14-17). The point here is that our new life must produce results (Titus 3:5; James 1:18)!

· Corruptible means human corruption contrasted to God’s Holiness and Word (Luke 8:11).

· Seed, meaning “divine life,” was a colloquialism for God’s Word as “seminal” (similar to “logos” of John 1), from “Plilo” which is a philosophical term meaning it is the divine influence for us (Isa. 40: 6-8; Luke 8:11; 1 John 3:9). God plants this in us, but we are required to care for and cultivate it for its continual growth in us.

· Through the living and enduring word of God. Word refers to God’s self- revelation, both spoken (by the prophets, who wrote it down for us) and written (all that we have today) (Deut. 6:4; 11:13-20; 1 Kings 12:22; Psalm 30:5; 33:9; Luke 3:2). This phrase means God’s Word is inspired, continual, real, relevant, imperishable, living, and lasting; it is the instrument through which Christ is revealed to humanity from a God who is all powerful, never failing, and who keeps His promises (Isa. 55:10-11; Heb. 4:12; James 1:18).

· All flesh is grass. This is a quote from Isaiah 40:6-8 from the “LXX” (Septuagint, a Greek version of the Hebrew Scriptures, 3rd century B.C). The phrase implies that God will redeem His people; our own efforts for redemption are in vain (Isa. 52: 7-8). Our life here is temporary and preparatory as our true home is eternity in Heaven (Matt. 19:28; Acts 3:21; 2 Cor. 4:17; Heb. 6:18-20; Rev. 21:1).

Faith produces faithfulness; this comes from believing that God will do what He says and looking to Him, not our circumstances. It is about control—if it will be God or me. It is trusting in His tug on my soul and not mine or the worlds, so I can make the best righteous decisions. It is like a switch that turns God’s power and Spirit unto us. Faith is the key to removing hypocrisy because it focuses us on Christ, whereas insincerity and pretence focus us on our personal, sinful agendas.

Vs. 2:1-3: We are called to crave the deeper things of the faith. There is a time to learn the basics and keep revisiting them so they are cemented within us. This is the babies’ milk, referring to who Jesus is and what He has done. But, a time comes when we must grow beyond milk—not beyond the veracity of it, but into greater depth, profundity, and application so we are living a life of holiness through His Word and Spirit. If we stay in the shallow end of the pool, we will never learn to swim. It is the same with our faith; we have to be willing and able to take more nourishment and fullness from our Lord so we can learn and grow more.

· Laying aside/rid yourselves is announcing what was called a “vice list” of what should be avoided for purity’s sake. This was also a common phrase in the early church, recited at baptisms as a further profession of faith (Mark 7:21-22; Rom. 1:29-31; 13:12-13; 1 Cor. 5:10; Gal. 5:19-20; Eph. 4:20-24; 2 Pet. 2:10-14). Because Christ is gracious to us, we have no need to engage in evil.

· Newborn babies refers to rebirth, to those who are new in Christ. It infers dependence on Christ to be fed. When we become Christians, it is not a done deal; our salvation is, but our faith, growth, and commitment need to be fed. We are to crave the Word so we can grow in Christ! It is having the appetite to pursue Him and the things of Him.

· Desire/crave means the passionate, eager, yearning desire for real spiritual food so we can grow.

· Pure milk means certified and unadulterated, as a document of authenticity. There is no deceit; the milk has not been diluted. Here, it refers to God’s Word as pure, nourishing, and rational. These are not the elementary instructions of 1 Cor. 3:1-3; we are to teach the elementary aspects of God’s Truth, but also go on to the deeper things (1 Cor. 3:1-4; Heb. 5:11-15; 1 Pet. 1:5, 9)!

· Tasted means tasting something for the first time and finding it so good that we desire more of it. We are exhorted to seek after more spiritual food. Our character must reflect this new nature and the leading of the Spirit, both publicly and privately. It is not because of insistence or feeling, but of gratitude and fact.

· Gracious means the kindness of God is delicious, from Psalm 34:8. We are called not be corruptible—rather, to be incorruptible!

What does this all come down to? Remaining in Christ against all that buffets us in life. Do not try to predict or dread them; rather, be prepared by your trust and obedience in Him. The Christian journey is about growing in faith and maturity—both spiritual and social—in the church, then applying it in the market place of life. When we withstand the tests and trails, we become stronger and of better use to God and others. When we remain loyal, looking to Him and not to what is happing in life, we gain His favor and blessings. This helps produce our growth now and our reward to come. He will give us the strength to bear it while we learn from it (1 Cor. 10-11-13). He will give us victory, but we must be careful that we do not become conceited. If we do, the next trial will be much smaller and we will fail it, as it will knock us down fast and hard.

The classic definitions of faith include the expression of ideals, loyalty, allegiance, adhering to principles, and belief in something, someone, or God without evidence or reason. Some secularists define faith as “an allegiance in something subjective or objective without reason or evidence, by science or observation, or in spite of which there is no proof.” However, this is blind faith without merit or reason. Christian faith is a gift from God that allows us to believe and trust in His love and providence. It is the acceptance of God's Word as true, what Jesus has done as real and true, then trusting and obeying Him. But, real Christian faith is far deeper because we have evidence and reason and God’s Word. His historicity and care through time is demonstrable. God’s trustworthiness has always been true, so we can have complete trust in and commitment to Him for all of our lives.

Both Christians and secularists agree that faith does affect the fundamental matters of life and the self. But, for the cynic, this is wrong; for the faithful, this is what is sought. Because of whom God is and what He has done, our faith becomes more real and effectual as it encompasses our identity, confidence, conviction, and purpose. Thus, our faith is a growing process that affects our life, moving us to action. It is not an intellectual concept or a mysterious guidance, nor is it based solely on experience. Rather, it is trust in His guidance obtained from His Work that we can experience more and more as we move on in life. James’ assertion that faith without actions is dead come to us from God because real and true faith affects our behaviors and actions (Matthew 8: 5- 13; Acts 11:22-24, 27:21-25; Romans 4:18-21, 1 Corinthians 12:9, Ephesians 2:8-9; Hebrews 11; James 1:2-4; 2:14-26; 1 Peter 1:7-9; 2 Peter 1:2-9; 16; 1 John 5:4).

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Do you have a favorite food that you crave? What would it mean to crave God’s Word the way we crave our favorite food?

2. What does “therefore” mean to you? What would be the result from the information our Lord has given you?

3. What does it mean to you to love? How would you define love? How would you explain it to someone?

4. What would it mean to love with vigor and earnestness? Why can’t love be done with pretense?

5. How can a Christian have love for his or her fellow Christians or neighbors and at the same time manipulate them, seek to control, subvert or be jealous? How would one rationalize that this is a good practice and is acceptable God from what this passage states?

6. Do you cry out for greater depth and implication of the Word? Do you seek greater awareness of God’s precepts so you can grow more and be used more? If not, what and why do you think you are here? Consider church, family, work, and life in general.

7. Have you realized the depths of His grace and that you have been given the incredible, wondrous gift of eternity and hope? If so, what have you done with it? If not, what would it take for you to further reason, trust, and believe in the incredible impacting grace of our Lord?

8. What do you need to do to grow in the Word? What needs to take place so you can respond to the “therefore” God gives us?

10. What happens when we put our hope in whatever we feel like, such as money, career, or power? How have you experienced that this does not last and becomes meaningless? What must our hope rest on? What are you going to do to further this idea in your life?

11. How can being purified help you obey the Truth? How would this enable you to grow? What would your life look like in this paradigm?

12. What can you do to be more “dependent,” as in being dependent on Christ to be fed? What would this mean for your personal and spiritual growth and commitment? What will you do about it?

General idea: The previous chapter gave us a litany of what Christ has passionately done for each of us as individuals. Now, Peter takes the argument of what our Lord has done for us to show how we are to be as a corporate collaboration of people in Him. The call is to come to Christ because He is the Living Stone, just as He called us to in Matthew 11:28-30. Here, we have an image of how our Lord is our cornerstone and how we as a Church should function, as we are all interlocked, plumed with purpose with our calls, gifts and abilities to one another all in Him (Eph. 4)! Christ is constructing a building of faith and eminence to be His Church made up of the stones of “us” laid upon the foundation of Him. Thus, our faith needs to grow from us personally and then move into our community, so we can interlock with one another, fastened by the mortar of the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:19-22).

Peter tells of the incredible transition from the Temple and the priesthood to the Church—foretold, but still inconceivable to the Jewish mindset. Christ is our stone bridge and gives us continuity and purpose. Jesus is the Foundation, Pillar, and Purpose of the Church, and we, as His people, are the church. We are not cold stones that are stationary and which decay; rather, we are living and movable, cemented together as a corporate identity in Him.

Yet, as perfect and precious as our Living Stone is, people do not understand Him and therefore reject Him out of fear of conviction. His way gets in the way of their way (my way), because they want a warrior Messiah, not a Savior and Convictor of their souls. However, when we are in Him, we have no need to fear. He gives us the comfort, protection, and the deep love we need. We, too, are precious in God’s sight!

Our identification as a “corporate” church is not a building; rather, it is a relationship of community, where we are His priests! The entire sacrificial and priestly system, as God directed Moses to set up, is now obsolete. It has been replaced. Its purpose was to point to Christ and get people ready; now, He is here. He is the sacrifice, the Altar, and the Temple, and we are the priests (Ex. 19:1-9). The key is that we have to listen to His Word; we must relinquish our self-absorbed mindsets and focus on Christ as Lord over all.

Vs. 4-8: The Living Stone, our temple, is He who gives us grace and comfort and does not disappoint! How wonderful and comforting to be able to allow Him to be our haven of rest, our continual comfort. At the same time, a warning is given to those who reject the Living Stone. He still gives us His grace—until it is too late and we are called to account. Do not be the one who rejects the Living Stone! Allow your faith to empower your obedience because obedience is what pleases God; disobedience, from a lack of faith, is detestable to Him!

· Coming to Him. This is an image from Isaiah 28:16, as we are chosen and precious in Him. Our call here is to continue to draw near to God! The key issue here is even though we are chosen, in order to be fully accepted, we must have repented! Our repentance is a result of our salvation; it comes after His saving grace. If repentance came first, our salvation would have been earned, and we can’t earn it (Acts 13:38-39; Rom. 1:17; 3:31- 5:21; 10:14‑17; 1 Cor. 1:18‑2:16; 15:1‑8; 2 Cor. 5:13-6:2; Gal. 2:15- 5:1; Phil. 3:4-14; Eph. 1:3‑14; 2:8-9; 1 John 1:9)!

· Living stone means the foundation, the source of something, such as a building or a family (Psalm 118:22; Isa. 8:14; 28:16). This means Jesus is the Spiritual Temple. He is the place and focus of worship. It is no longer a building; it is a community in relationship to Him. Jesus was a carpenter in His human occupation and perhaps frequently worked with stonemasons or did masonry, too. Peter picks up this image from the Gospels. Christ is the Stone, our Giver of life, our Source and Foundation for all we are and do (Matt. 21:42; John 1:4; 1 Cor. 3:1-3; 15:45)!

· Living stones. The plural refers to our union in Him. This means Christian community and fellowship is a “spiritual house,” as we are all in Christ as one and we derive our life from Him. Our identity in Him must affect us personally and publicly, synergizing as a community (Matt. 16:18; 1 Cor. 15:45) that is formed, indwelt, and empowered by the Spirit (Acts 2:33). We are all precious, important, and have a job to do as a moving, living temple, reflecting His love and holiness (John 2:19; Ro 12:1; 1 Cor. 3:16; Eph. 2:19-22; Heb 7:26; 10:10).

· Chosen by God means people belonging to God for a purpose. Just as Israel was set apart to be priests and missionaries to the world, we too are designated to reach the world (Gen. 12:1-3; Duet 4:20; 7:6; 14:2; 28:9; Isa 43:10, 20-21; 44:1-2; 61:6; Hos 1:6-10; Mal 3:17; Acts 2:11; Rom. 9:25-26; 10:19; Eph 1:4).

· Spiritual House refers to the O.T. Temple as God’s dwelling place. Here, house is more than a building; it is also a legacy, a large family or dynasty such as the “House of Israel.” Thus, the Church is God’s dwelling place and legacy (2 Sam. 7:5-7, 12-16; 2 Cor. 6:16; Eph. 2:19-22; Heb. 3:6).

· Holy priesthood refers to Exodus 19:5-6. We, as Christians, are now a part of His Kingdom, representatives of Christ, His living Body on earth. Now, as believers, we hold the role of priests too, because we all have the same access to God that, prior to the Cross, only the priests had (Ex. 23:22; Isa. 61:6; Rom. 12:1-2; 2 Cor. 5:20; Heb. 2:9; 13:15). Jesus Christ is our only Mediator; we do not need to go to another person—priest or rabbi—or object, but directly to God ourselves (John 14:6).

· Spiritual sacrifices means that Christ’s work on the Cross—which is “spiritual”—replaces the “material” sacrifices of the O.T. because His sacrifice is complete for us (Psalm 51:16-17; Heb. 8:13; 10:9-18; 13:5; Rev. 8:3). This is called “propitiation.” It means that Christ took our place in life and in death because we cannot be saved by our own actions. We cannot rely on our own efforts, skills, personal connections, family background, or our beliefs. Only Christ can wash us clean and declare us righteous, so we are saved from our sins (Eph. 2:8-9). God imputes His righteousness unto us by declaring us righteous because of what Christ has done (Rom. 3:21-26; 5:10-19; 10:3; 12:1). This declaration means we, as the elect, are free from our debt of sin. But, we as debtors are to be witnesses to the lost! We are to respond with our sacrifices of praise (Phil. 4:18; Heb 13:15-16).

· Acceptable to God. God accepts us by His sacrifice for our sins (Heb.13: 15-16)! Because of His work, we are complete in Him, we are deeply loved and accepted, and we do not need to have acceptance by any other person or means to be fulfilled (Col. 1:21-22; 2:13-15; James 1:4; 1 John 4:9-11)!

· Behold I lay in Zion is a quote from Isaiah 8:14; 28:16 and Psalm 118:22. Here, Christ is the true God and representative of us all. This is an image of how God delivered Israel from slavery to the Promised Land, and how He delivers us from sin, from darkness to Light. The same stone they worshiped is the stone they stumbled on because they refused to understand (Rom. 9:30-10:4).

· Cornerstone. This was a large stone laid at the foundation of a building to be a “footer,” and to “plum” the rest of the building so it was square and secure. This was essential to the structure of the building. These buildings were laid by cut stones, interlocked by gravity and force, and without mortar, all relying and leaning on one another. Without proper stone placement, buildings in the ancient world would not last long or would fall during construction. Here, we have an image of how our Lord is our cornerstone (Psalm 118:22; Matt. 21:42; Mark 12:10; Luke 20:17; Acts 4:11; Eph. 2:20). Chief cornerstone means the chief, the head of the corner; for our Lord, it means He is our All in All—we can trust in Him (1 Cor. 15:20-28)!

· Living stones…spiritual house. Together, these refer to a living, sacred temple, empowered by God to worship God. Some Jewish sects saw themselves as living temples or a new temple, such as the Qumran community that produced the Dead Sea Scrolls. Our dependence must be on Christ, as He is the One who supports us, lifts us up, and houses us in His presence (Ex. 19:6; Mark 12:10-11).

· Stumble, meaning disobedient, refers to condemnation and Judgment, because a person is so “self willed” and prideful, he or she is not willing to acknowledge God as his or her Lord.

· Were appointed alludes to the total Divine Sovereignty of our Lord; He is in control. This also means we have the responsibility for our faith and actions (Rom. 9:14-24).

The rejection of the world did not diminish Christ and does not diminish those who are in Christ. Our glory and place are far greater than anyone who rejects Him could ever conceive of. Faith in Christ requires our efforts and yielding; such effort is hard for most, and impossible for the person who is self-absorbed and only sees him or her self and will stumble. We have to see Christ as our Capstone or all we see is what we want—things that fade and become meaningless.

Vs. 2:9-10: In order to do the work of God, we must be the people of God! As Christians, we are chosen by Him to be in Him as His possession in love. He called us out of our darkness into His Light by His mercy; He sets us apart to be holy participants in His Kingdom (Heb. 12:14). Thus, we are called to show this wonderful, incredible place we have in Him to others by our goodness, attitude, and deeds—and, if necessary, with words.

· But you are means we are destined, we have a purpose, and we have status before our Lord! This passage is almost a direct quotation from Exodus 19:6; referring to our sharing in God’s Covenant, both as Jews and Gentiles. Our identity in Him must affect us personally and publicly, then synergize into a community (Gen. 12:1-3; Rev. 1:6; 5:10; 20:6).

· Proclaim. Peter has already stated our election in Christ in the first verses of the first chapter. Now, he uses it to call us to service because of what Christ has done for us. Our call is to be a joyful, mature, obedient witness with love toward others.

· Out of darkness refers to God having redeemed us out of the darkness of sin into the Light of His presence (Isa. 60:21; 61:3; Jer. 13:11).

· Who once were. Peter again quotes the O.T.; here, it is Hosea 1:10, 2:23. This means how God reversed His verdict of Judgment upon Israel for their continual disobedience and gave them restoration and the promise of Christ (Isa. 19:24-25; 56:3-8; Hos. 1:6-9; Rom. 9:24-26).

· The people of God refers to Israel. Now, it refers to all those in Christ, no matter what their heritage is (Hos. 1:6-10; 2:1, 22-23; Rom. 9:25-26). It shows how God elected the Israelites, they rejected Him, God judged them, and then He restored them. It is all about God’s gracious mercy that we do not deserve.

The Living Stone is defined as a dwelling! Dwellings need to be cared for, maintained, preserved, and, of course, used. His dwelling is where we can take rest and comfort out of the “weather” of life, and then regroup, recharge, and go out into the world with His Word. The incredible news of this is we still remain in His dwelling. When we go out, we are still inside His presence and care! His Living Stone is also the mobile Stone; thus, wherever we go, we are still under His shelter and care, no matter where we are or what we face.

The context of this passage is also that of 1 Peter 1:1-12. The theme is that Omniscience and free will go together—beyond our comprehension. Spurgeon said it best: “they’re friends” (Psalm 139)! Here are some thoughts to consider: God knows all things and His understanding is totally comprehensive. All that is in the past, all in the present, and all to come in the future are complete in His knowledge. In addition, His foreknowledge is contingent and interconnected but not moved by all the freely done choices and actions of humanity. Thus, our actions cannot change or move God, and all that we think and do are in His providence. At the same time, His providence does not necessarily cause us to act or respond. We still do so out of our free will. Our free will is in conjunction and in the boundaries of God’s perfect, sovereign will and foreknowledge. Yes, this is a mind blower, but we are not God, nor do we have His omniscience and omnipotent thinking power!

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. If you had to build your own house, what materials would you use and what would you hope it would look like? What if you could “rebuild” your church (building and/or people); what would it look like?

2. Have you ever thought of the church as a corporate collaboration of people in Him? How so? Why not?

3. The Church is made up of stones of “us” laid upon the Foundation of Him. So, how is your church a reflection of this passage? How is your church a building of faith? How could your church be a better building of faith? What could your role be?

4. How is the faith of some Christians like “cold stones” that are stationary and that decay? What causes this? How can you guard yourself from this mindset?

5. How can the precepts of this passage help you become a more joyful, mature, obedient witness with love to others?

6. Why does your faith need to grow in you personally before it can move into your community? What would it mean for you to have a faith that is a “living stone?”

7. Why did people back then reject Jesus? What are the reasons today that people reject Him? How do we reject Him with our behaviors, attitudes, feelings…?

8. What does it mean to you that you are acceptable to God, deeply loved, and complete in Him? How can this mindset enhance who and how you are?

9. How do you feel that you are a priest, a representative of Christ? What can you do more with this call?

10. How can your faith and conviction be strengthen by knowing deeply that wherever you go, you are still under His shelter and care—no matter where you are or what you face?

11. How is Christ the Foundation of your church? What needs to take place so that people will fully realize this? What would your church look like if people did?

12. What can your church do to be more like this passage? For example, how can each person interlock with one another, fastened by the mortar of the Holy Spirit in a healthier way? What would your church look like if this were so? What needs to be done to make this so?

General idea: This passage is about living honorably, even in the face of oppression and enticement. This is a call and challenge for us to see the world differently so we can respond in kindness and virtue. The world, with all of its lusts and evils, is not to be the place of our identity or the place in which we want to be enveloped; rather, it is to be the place we are to influence.

We can be influencers even if we are being influenced from the wrong areas and guidelines. Our guidelines come from the character and teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ. If they come from any place else, our thinking is influenced, and thus, all we think and do becomes inclined toward the negative. Then, we become the carnal Christian who repels people from the Lord, giving the message that Christ is not sufficient or adequate.

We are on a journey in life. Basically, we are not made for this world; we are made for eternity. We are here on this earth to live and learn, to experience and grow so we can personally and passionately know Christ and make Him known to others. We do this best with our good character and virtue, seeking Him, so all that we are (as in our will, thinking, heart, and direction) is permeated by His care and call. This all comes down to how we are in this world and that all we do is to be glorifying to God. When we are lined up to this, then our conduct is honoring to God and others.

Vs. 11: We are called to stay away from evil desires because they will entice us and lead us away from His loving and best plan for us. When we are thinking in a wrong or dysfunctional way, it affects all we are and all we do because our lusts fight against our very soul! Our relationships, how we treat others, and how we proclaim God’s Word through our attitude and lifestyle all stem from how and what we are thinking. Our thinking must come from the precepts of His Word. Our opinions, judgments, outlook, and approach to life and people need to come from the heart of a will that is bought by Jesus Christ.

· Beloved/Dear friends. Our position in Christ is as His friend; we are dear, cherished, and fully, deeply loved by Him! As Christians, we are all bound together in and by love (John 14)! We are loved not because we are lovable or there is something within us He sees as good; rather, we are loved in spite of our sinful rebellion. This is a much greater love, which is what Grace is all about.

· Sojourners/aliens here refers to being “resident aliens” (see 1 Peter 1: 1-2). We are not native to the world. We Christians are on a journey, separated from the home for which we are made—eternity. Our citizenship is in heaven. We are only on this earth temporarily. This is about how we view our place in this world, how we conduct ourselves, and where we place our loyalties (Gen. 23:4; 47:9; Lev. 25:23; 1 Chron. 29:15; Psalm 39:12; 69:8; 119:19; Acts 10:34; Heb 13:14; 1 Pet. 1:1, 17). The saying that “Christianity is not just a destination; it is a journey,” applies here. We are made for heaven and destined to be there in time; meanwhile, we are to live, learn, grow, and show His love and holiness to all those with whom we come in contact.

· Pilgrims/strangers conveys a similar thought as above, with the point that we are “God’s people (1 Pet. 2:4-10).” We are not here permanently; rather, we are “pilgrims” on a journey until we reach our permanent home in eternity. Philo of Alexandria, a Jewish philosopher born in 25 B.C., viewed the soul as on a journey and us as strangers in our bodies and in the world. His point, as well as Peter’s, is that we are not made for this world, so let’s make the best of it while we are here for God’s glory. Our “homecoming” will come soon enough.

· Abstain means to control sinful desires toward immorality in a pagan culture, and to live as God’s people in a hostile world. The argument is that because we are aliens here on earth, we are called to be separated from the corruption of the world so we should not let it influence us. When we refuse to yield, we will avoid its destructive consequences.

· Lusts refers to “fleshy passions” or sexual desires,” things that lure us away from God’s path, holiness, and the character to which He calls us. The call? Stay away from lust! This lust here can refer to anything that distracts us from God! Some of the lusts are not wrong. For example, sex is not wrong, but becomes so when our sinful nature gets involved and we pervert or seek to use it against that for which it was designed. Sex is meant for intimacy only between a man and woman who are married to each other (Rom. 1:18-32; Gal. 5:19-21).

· War. We are at war with God’s desires versus ours. Thus, we must know what a mortal threat there is to us! Since our soul is not made for this world but for eternity in heaven, it is in foreign occupied territory. Thus, our soul is at war between the ways of God versus the ways of the world. The question is, which side are your heart and mind on (James 4:1-17)?

· Soul. We will never truly be able to free our soul from earthly temptations and distractions. We have to learn self-control and to keep our focus on Christ rather than the lure of lust! The philosophers sought to free the soul from earthly passions, producing Gnosticism. The call of God is to be on guard so we can still live in a proper, pleasing way to glorify our Lord and people will see Christ exhibited in us!

The Church has taught for centuries that sex is for procreation only and there are still Christian groups proclaiming this. However, this is not what the Bible teaches. Sex was created by God to populate (Genesis 1:28), to express unity (Genesis 2:24), to know your mate (Genesis 4:1), to express love (Genesis 24:67), to meet each other’s needs (Genesis 24:67; Deuteronomy 24:5; 1 Peter 3:7), to play (Proverbs 5:19; Song of Songs 2:8-17; 4:1-16; Ecclesiastes 9:9), and to prevent sin (1 Corinthians 7:2-5). Intimacy also includes our being available to our spouse (1 Corinthians 7:3-5), and showing him or her our undivided interest as an expression of love (Song of Songs 4:16; 5:2).

Sex causes a bond and is meant for a sacred occasion. When it is misused, it is devastating to all involved. This is also the reason sexual abuse is so devastating for people! The victim is bonded to his or her attacker in a perverse way, so the act stays in the mind as he or she keeps living it out. So, in the case of abuse or mistakes, we have to be diligent to seek professional counseling to overcome the experience through God’s grace, love, and forgiveness. In a marriage, where one or both of the spouses were not previously faithful, extra work and care needs to go into the relationship to seek the healing and forgiveness of that broken bond (Gen. 2:24-25; 34:1-3, 8; Prov. 5:15 -22; Rom. 8:12-17; 1 Cor. 6: 12-20; 7:3-5; 2 Cor. 10:5-6; Eph. 1:3; 2:4-10; 5:21-32; Col. 3:1-4; Heb. 13:4).

Vs. 12: We are called to be careful how we live. People will be watching us wherever we go; how we are, and what we are will be scrutinized. Therefore, we must strive to do our best, so our Lord is represented with excellence through us. Even if we never do wrong, we may be accused of wrong. However, character always triumphs because it convicts those who do not have it. They will see Christ through us, but we have to remain firm in our trust and obedience in Him. Others have the option to believe in Christ, but the key may be in how you remain faithful to Him as His witness!

· Conduct. A modern reflection in this context is “traditional family values.” We are to act nobly to others in spite of how they may treat us. We must work out a biblical character balance between exhibiting holiness and setting boundaries from potential harm. In Peter’s time, Christians were accused of being cannibals because of the Lord’s Supper, of being disloyal and atheists because they did not worship Caesar (John 19:12), of causing civil unrest (Acts 16:16-24), of being hateful because they did not participate in pagan practices (Col. 2:16), of teaching that slaves are free (1 Cor. 13:13; Gal. 3:30), and of being antisocial (Acts 15:29).

· Gentiles normally refers to anyone who is not born in or converted to Judaism. Here, it is referring to those who are anti-Jewish or anti-Christian who use their agenda to slander and manipulate those who are in God. It means when we make a commitment to Christ, people will come against us either because they do not understand or they refuse to know or be convicted, and we become a threat to their complacency and smugness.

· They observe/see your good deeds refers to people who are “carefully watching” what we do over a period of time to determine whether it is good (Matt. 5:16). This is about our influence on the unbeliever!

· Day of visitation/the day He visits us refers to God’s coming in judgment (Isa. 10:3; 60:3). This phrase can also mean when God “visits” someone and gives him or her salvation. Here, it means that when the end times occur, the Gentiles will finally recognize God’s sovereignty. Some commentators have stated that this means the return of Christ. Perhaps so, but this is problematic because of context and the quotes from Isaiah.

We are called to have lifestyle, character, outlook on life, and behavior that is about living honorably! Who and how we are make up the things we bring with us into eternity that will echo and resound, so let our actions be worthy of His praise. In this way, we can be the windows through which people can see Christ.

The attitude in this passage is like that of a missionary who studies a culture and then lives among those people. His or her job is to learn and to model Christ, but he or she is never an active part of or consumed by the culture. He or she is to be active in representing Christ and the virtues He proclaims as ambassadors of Christ (2 Cor. 5:20). The call is to remain in Christ and in His percepts and virtue, and not become contaminated by what the world offers us. What may seem good may be misleading and will cause us to rot physically by disdain and disease, erode our mind with dysfunction and false thinking, and then eat away our soul spiritually.

As we are the mirrors of Christ, He is seen by who we are. When we stand up for the faith and act in good character, people will come against us with gossip and slander because their plans become disrupted and their desires are found guilty. But, when we remain faithful, regardless of the circumstances, they will see virtue and honor in action and, thus, have a glimpse in God’s character and call even if they reject Him and seek to kill us. There will be times when it seems our efforts are weighted because people do not listen or do not repent. But, they are not. Each action we share is looked upon by others. We are watched! So, when we live to honor God, people will have the example they need to accept His grace or reject Him. We may never see the fruits, but they are there. We have a God who will judge and return, so let us get busy and make sure all those who come across our path see Him in us!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Have you ever backslidden or turned your back on God? How so, and why? What made you return to Him?

2. What are some of the things that distract you from loving and worshiping our Lord? What are some of the things that cause you or others oppression or enticement?

3. What does it mean to you to live honorably? How have you succeeded? How have you failed? Remember, we all succeed and fail at times!

4. What happens when we are the ones being influenced from the ways and evils of the world? How do they entice you and lead you away from His loving and best plan for you?

5. Does knowing that we are not made for this world, but made for eternity give you hope and confidence? How can this eternal thinking help you stick it out in life and do all that you are called to do with excellence?

6. What does it mean that we are here on this earth to live and learn, to experience and grow? How can this mindset help us personally and passionately to know Christ more so others can see Christ exhibited in us?

7. What do you need to do to stay away from evil desires? What can be a mortal threat to you? Which side is your heart and mind on (James 4:1-17)?

9. What does it mean to act nobly to others? How can we do this in spite of how they may treat us?

10. What can you do to work out a biblical character balance between exhibiting holiness and setting boundaries from potential harm?

11. What does it mean to your self-esteem that Christ says you are His friend, that you are dear, cherished, and fully and deeply loved by Him? How can this help your outlook to the church, community, and people who are close to you?

12. What is a place or situation that may need your positive, godly influence? What will you do about it? When will you do it?

General idea: This passage is all about respect. How do you show respect? Do your words line up with your beliefs? Do your actions show that Christ is living within you?

This passage adheres to “household instruction codes,” rules of etiquette and behavior needed to run a household effectively with as few conflicts and problems as possible. This also falls under philosophical ethical codes that the various schools of philosophy had as obligatory for their students. Such rules were for servants, guests, and children and included what was expected and how others were to be treated. Ancient aristocrats ran their estates like mini governments, and this new sect of Christianity needed some boundaries and behavior examples.

This tells us how we are to behave, the management and tempering of our personal freedoms and liberties for the greater good of civil peace and prosperity. God is calling us to be good citizens no matter what government controls us. In this passage, Peter uses some of the same exaltations as did Jeremiah to the captives being taken to Babylon (Jer. 29).This passage calls the early Christians, who were living under a hostile, oppressive government, and who were facing persecution, to still respect and obey the laws and exhibit good character. This call is even for when the government is evil.

The second point in this passage is about our liberty, our freedom in Christ. Christ’s work has freed us, but that does not mean we can do whatever we please. The laws of physics are still in place; thus, if we pray in the street while a truck is coming, it will hit us. If we use an unkind word to someone, we will hurt him or her, and so forth. We are called to use wisdom and restraint, to be discerning, and not overpowering or condescending.

Vs. 13: Why must we submit to a government (legitimate authorities), even an evil one? God set the governments up and placed people in places of authority. He expects them to be responsible (Prov. 8:15; Dan. 2:21). We are called to obey the will of God; this, as hard as it is to take, is the will of God, no matter what the qualifications or spirituality of the leadership.

· Be submissive is a call to voluntarily submit, even though you are not required to do so. Submission is respect, and thus is not to exceed the parameters of the will of God or of love and righteousness. Submit translates from a military term (Ephesians 5:22 Greek: hupotasso), which means "to place under" or "to subordinate" as a line relationship (1 Peter 3:1). This is not because of weakness or inferiority, or, that one is better than the other is. This introduces the theme of submission and obedience for the rest of the chapter (Eph. 5:21; 1 Peter 5:5).

· For the Lord’s sake is about authority. God establishes and is the authority. For this reason, Christ is extolled; His name and reputation remain good and shown in good light because we are His windows to the world! When we are submitting to others, we are submitting and serving Christ as Lord (Col. 3:23-24)! When we disobey the government, we are disobeying God who set up those people in their leadership positions (Prov. 16:10; 21:1; Rom. 13:1-7).

· The king is supreme. We are to show respect. Keep this in mind: when Peter wrote this Epistle, Nero was the evil, godless, and vicious emperor (A.D. 54 to 68). We Christians are to obey as long as our obedience to the government does not contradict our obedience to the Lord and His precepts. We are never to violate the law of God (Matt. 22:21; Acts 4:19; 5:29). (Incidentally, Peter was martyred by Nero in a heinous way. See background article.)

· Praise/ commend possibly refers to legal acquittal or thanking people who provide service for municipalities, such as the garbage man.

· Will of God refers to God’s sovereignty. He is in control and He places us where we need to be for His glory.

· King possibly referred directly to Nero, whereas Governors were identified as local authorities. The emperor sent vassal kings, legates, proconsuls, and governors to rule most of the Roman Empire. They then ruled on Rome’s behalf. All of the early Christians were under such authority.

· Free/free men means we have freedom from the world’s ways but we still are not permitted to do as we please. We can be slaves to sin or slaves to God; it is our freedom to choose. God treats us with respect, while sin destroys! We are to be wise with how we use our freedom and liberty, and pursue virtue and excellence. A balance must arise, through biblical understanding, between boundaries to protect us from tyranny, and character, which upholds the laws in order to show Christ to others. Our true freedom is how God has freed us from the bondage of sin and how we choose to show our gratitude to Him for who He is and what He has done (Rom. 2:23; 6:23). The stoic philosophers at the time advocated obedience to the state.

· Cloak/cover-up means to say one thing and do another, to hide your true identity as a Christian, or to act outside of God’s call and virtue. It also includes the erroneous idea that because we have grace, we have a license to sin. The historical context cautions Christians not to use the excuse of liberty to violently rebel against Rome (1 Cor. 7:20-24; Gal. 5:13; 2 Pet. 2:19-20).

· Bondservants /servants. We are called not to abandon our responsibilities and duties, because Christ, as our ultimate Master, is the one we obey, respect, and worship (Rom. 1:1; 6:22; 9:3; 1 Cor. 15:3-8; James 1:1). A bondservant was the lowest form of a slave in Greek times, totally at the master’s disposal, and even expendable. He, along with others like him, rowed the boats of war with a whip at his back. For us, it means total, surrendered devotion to the Lord; our will has been sacrificed to God's will and thus we are totally at the disposal of our Lord(Acts 6:1-6; Rom. 12:7; Gal. 1:15; 2:20; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 2:8-3:13; 4:6)!

· Silence the ignorance/ ignorant talk. Christianity was getting a bad reputation from rumors and false allegations, and was being expounded by the bad actions of some Christians. When we are good citizens, and when we are behaving with good character, we prove false allegations wrong. When we act foolish, we prove our accusers right. This is an important call and is instrumental in countering false accusations and persecution; it also shows a better picture of the Gospel to unbelievers!

· Honor all peoples/ Show proper respect. We are called to recognize and respect those in authority (Ex. 22:28; 1 Kings 21:10; Prov. 24:21). We are also called to recognize, respect the significance, and value the personhood of all people—regardless of race, color, or creed (Prov. 1:7; 8:13; 16:6; Rom. 2:11; James 2:1.)! As human beings, we are all the same, and we bear the image of God (Gen. 1:27; 6:9; 1 Pet. 1:17)!

· Fear God means to reverence God as Lord, not as an afterthought or when it is convenient. We are to come before God in this way, along with humbleness (1 Pet. 5:6). It is a term of endearment and respect that is supercharged with more meaning and power because it infers intense reverence and awe of God and His holiness (Job 28:28; Prov. 1:7; 3:5; 8:13; 9:10; 16:6; 31:30; Psalm 2:11; 34:11; 111:10; Isa. 12:6; Eccl. 12: 13; Mal. 1:14; Matt. 10: 27-33; Rom. 2:11; James 2:1). It does not mean we are afraid of Him; rather, we are fearful of His wrath (Romans 3).

Why? It is about respecting the order of society and the structure for the greater good of all people. Otherwise, things would be worse and anarchy would result. If we model goodness, it is convicting. The misdirected leaders may get the message that their ways are not so good. They need examples of character and virtue, especially when they do not have it or have never experienced it. God is the One who appoints leaders. He is still sovereign, even when a Nero or a Hitler is running things, because God is still ultimately in charge. The leaders will be held accountable for their ways, whether good or evil; we are to remain faithful to God and show our love for Him by being respectful to others around us. They will see His love in us; love does drive out fear (1 John 4:18). Foolishness and the misdirection of government authorities will be more thwarted by good examples than by terrorist hostilities (Rom. 13:1-7). By being the good example, and by ethics, the Christians can prove that they are not the evil government- haters for which they were being accused. By remaining good examples, they showed support for the Roman government; thus, persecution was frustrated as such threats and gossip fell on deaf ears!

Imagine if the people in Palestine stopped their violence against the Jewish government, and begin a campaign to show the Fruit of the Spirit? The Jewish officials would have no reason to retaliate, no reason to build a wall, no reason to oppress them. The Palestinians would be in a position to negotiate for freedoms and privileges that the Jewish citizens get—a higher standard of living, an end to Fourth World living conditions, an end to preventable disease and hunger, and clean, nice, affordable housing. However, the problem of the violence continues; thus, the problems do not go away, but, rather, escalate.

Yes, there are times to fight back, and we should never do what is contrary to the will of God just to obey a government. If the government wants us to kill babies or those who are invalids, we should fight back with force, but as much as possible in the parameters of His Fruit.

Our Founding Fathers in the U.S. struggled over this issue to remain loyal to England or proclaim liberty and freedom. England was oppressing and robbing us, and many early Americans, especially Christians, sought to continue to allow it. Other Christians sought to fight. Our country was divided then over this issue as we are divided today over recent national elections.

We must strive to remain loyal and model good character in all we do, especially to our government, even at the DMV, trying to get a driver’s license after several weeks of run-around and, while waiting in line, discover we are in the wrong line, were given the wrong forms and instructions, so we have to start over. The more important issue is not how they treat us, but as Christians, how we respond and treat them!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. What kind of household instructions did you have growing up? What about now? Were such rules needed? How so?

2. Have you ever had problems respecting authority? What about a Governor or President you just cannot stand? How should you see them?

3. This passage is all about respect. How do you show respect? Do your words line up to your beliefs? Do your actions show Christ is living within you?

4. Why are proper etiquette and behavior needed to run a household or a government effectively? Why would people be opposed to this? How can we thwart the misdirection of government authorities more by good examples than by terrorist hostilities?

5. How do rules counter conflicts and prevent problems? Why is it important to manage our personal freedoms and liberties? What happens when it goes unchecked? How does our personal behavior help promote a greater good of civil rest and prosperity?

6. During this Epistle’s writing, a hostile, oppressive government was persecuting the early Christians. How would you feel if you were told to temper yourself and respect those who were doing these things to you and your family? Why would heeding such advice be beneficial to you? What would be the consequences?

7. Why is it a bad idea to think that because we are made free by Christ’s work, we can do whatever we please? What would happen if Christians did this?

8. God is the One who set up the governments and He holds them responsible: How can this point help you respect and obey the laws of the land?

9. How would you define submission? Why would you submit, even though you do not have to? Can you give an example? How is submitting to those in authority serving Christ as Lord?

10. The important issue is not how the government treats us, but how Christians respond and treat it! So, what can you and your church do to be better examples of this?

11. How can you make sure that your obedience to the government does not contradict your obedience to the Lord and His precepts, knowing that we are never to violate the law of God?

12. How can you come up with a balance, through biblical understanding, between boundaries to protect you from tyranny and still model character by upholding the laws, and showing Christ to others? How would you react to an unjust law? Can you give an example?

As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

General idea: Peter is calling upon servants to obey their masters. This not only applies to slaves but also to us today! We may not be slaves, but we are called to accept the authority of those who are in authority over us, even when they are harsh and cruel. This is hard for most Christians to understand because it is a call that goes against our nature and even our culture. This passage is not saying we are to be mistreated, taken advantage of, or abused; it is a firm call to be a good employee, student, and to strive to be a model Christian by sowing kindness, respect, and following through with good work ethics.

We are not to give up or skip out on opportunities or duty because they get difficult. We also are not to seek revenge or conspire to hurt others because we have been hurt. This is about being a good worker so we reflect Christ and give Him glory. It is also about being a good witness by showing that extra-ordinary virtue. The backside of this is there is no glory or honor in enduring rebuke and punishment that we deserve!

This passage was originally directed to servants who worked as household slaves to look at their situation as a privilege rather than despair over it. They were, as a whole, treated much better than the field slaves or war slaves. Peter knew there was nothing he could do to free them, so he gave them pastoral advice to work within the system and do their best for a greater purpose. It is far better to deal with your situation constructively then to cause more unrest.

Vs. 18-20: This passage is a tough one as it asks us to do what we naturally do not want to do and for which we can easily rationalize our disobedience. However, to God, a greater theme is presented, one we usually do not see in our horizon, of putting Him first so our character and virtue are the display case for His work and person.

· Servants referred to slaves or hired workers. They were much like the butlers and maids we have today, except they were usually owned by another person. Some could save their money and buy their freedom, but most did not as their lifestyle was better than it would be if they were on their own. However, even the best-treated servants were subjugated to extreme prejudice. Others were in a hopeless situation. They were being encouraged to obey and allow their virtue to win others over. The stoic philosophers also taught this. The flipside is salves and servants were to be treated with respect and dignity, never mistreated, and as spiritually equal before God (1 Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:28; Eph. 6:9; Col. 3:11; 4:1). Peter is not condemning or condoning slavery, just stating it as a matter of fact; thus, he urges them to learn to live with it and reform it by good character and the Gospel (Deut 24:1-4; Matt. 19:8; Eph. 6:5; Philemon). Slaves were also encouraged to seek their freedom by all legal means (1 Cor. 7:21-24; Philemon). (I firmly believe if we had done that in the U.S., we would not have the ongoing racial bigotry that we have in the U.S. I write this as a man who is descended from African and European ancestry!)

· Conscious of God means submission; we should focus on our duty and respect authority because it is for God. This is about being a good worker as our work reflects God (Eph. 6:5-8; Col. 3:22-25; 1Tim. 6:1-2; Titus 2:9-10).

In the ancient world, such people were treated as property and had little to no rights. There were many slave uprisings, but they only accomplished the killing of the slaves and made matters worse for future slaves. Peter wanted to fix the problem, but he could not. So, he called slaves and everyone else to a higher standard.

Slaves, in the early slavery period of Europe and America, were the vital forces that kept the economy going. Peter is not condoning slavery, but calls us to work within it for reform. If slavery had suddenly been eliminated, the society and economy would have broken down and anarchy would have replaced it. This would have made life worse for everyone, just as it did in 1860s America. It was the American and English Christians in the 1750s and onward who led the end of slavery by understating and applying this passage. If slavery here had been eliminated gradually, as it was in England, we might never have had the Civil War or the racial problems that have followed for decades! Ironically, such problems are not as apparent in England as they are in America—the “land of the free.”

Vs. 21-25: Jesus faced all of the temptations we face, yet remained true to and never disobeyed God. He cut no corners and took no shortcuts; therefore, we can have eternal life by receiving and enduring His extreme suffering that He did not deserve! This section gives us the picture of the sinless nature of Jesus (Luke 14:25-33; Heb. 12:3-13; 1 Pet. 1:19). This is important because if Jesus were not sinless, He could not have been God nor paid the debt for our Redemption (Acts 3:14; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15; 7:26; 1 Pet. 1:19; 3:10; 1 John 3:5)!

· You were called. The call is the patient endurance of injustice and suffering, a call that seems no sane person should desire, yet it is our call. The Christian life is not about health and wealth but just the opposite—suffering and growth (John 15:18-20; 2 Tim. 3:12). Christ suffered for us and we are to understand the significance, power, and impact of this (Isa. 52:13-53:12; 2 Cor. 1:5; 4:10; Phil. 3:1-14; 1 Pet. 5:12). Thus, do not be harsh; endure harshness. Our conscience toward God may bring about suffering!

· An example. Philosophers were obsessed with the idea that we must have good and perfect “forms” of templates and examples from which to learn and follow. Jesus is our perfect example! Many people today are fixated on justice and proper treatment. This is important; however, who we are in our situation is more important!

· Who… is a quote from Isaiah 53:9. The rest of this passage has the entire chapter in mind, the model of the suffering servant and a prophecy about Jesus, which He fulfills.

· Committed no sin. Jesus was perfect and totally sinless (John 8:46; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15; 7:26; 1 Pet. 2:22; 1 John 3:5). This was necessary to please God, so He took our place by living a perfect life in our behalf; this is called “propitiation.” All have sinned, and we are separated from God because of sin (Rom. 3:23; 8:7). Only Christ, who pleased God for us, was sinless.

· His mouth meant Jesus had the right and power to defend Himself in a society that valued and respected authority. He chose to submit and take the abuse. Not responding is the greatest defense, as God is one’s defense (Matt. 27:12-14, 34-44)! This would have been astonishing yet of incredible encouragement to a slave. Hence, many slaves became Christians, as they could identify with Christ.

· Bore our sins refers to Jesus, who not only set the example, but more importantly, also redeemed us (Isa 53:12). This also refers to the “substitutionary atonement.” Christ was the innocent, sacrificial lamb who died for the guilty—for our sins!

· Tree. This is metaphorical reference to the cross (Isa 53:5; Acts 5:30; 10:39; 13:29; Rom. 6:3-14; Gal 3:13).

· His stripes/wounds refer to what Christ endured for us. He suffered for us and gave us an example of suffering (Isa 6:10; 53:4-5; Jer. 6:14; 8:11). The wounds were not from the literal, physical torture; rather, they were from sin—our sin that He bore for us! Jesus is also our example of submission!

· Have been healed normally refers to a physical healing. However, here it means something a whole lot more—our atonement (Matt. 8:16-17). This is about how Christ's work on the cross brings salvation to those who put their faith in Him.

· Sheep is a metaphor for people who follow God (Psalm 23; Isa 40:11; John 10:1-18). Sheep going astray refers to the nation Israel, how they tended to stray far from God’s path, and how He kept disciplining and rescuing them (Psalm 119:176; Hosea—whole book, Isa. 40:11; 53:6; Jer. 50:6; Ezek 34:6). This is a call to us to heed their history lest we too go astray!

· Shepherd provides for us an image of leading and protecting. Jesus comes as the Good Shepherd to rescue His lost sheep. We have gone astray and have given in to sin; He brings us back to His fold (Psalm 23:1; Isa. 53:6; Jer. 50:6; Ezek. 34:5; Matt. 14: 13-21; John 10:11; Acts 20:28; Heb. 13:20; James 5: 19-20). This is also a name for Jesus (Psalm 23, 79:13, 95:7, 80:1, 100:3; Gen. 49:24; Isa. 40:11).

· Overseer/Guardian refers to being a guardian and protector—like a sentinel. This was someone who protected an estate or farm, and served its owners. Our Overseer is Christ (John 10:1-18)! Elders now fill this role, as Christ’s workmen, as both shepherds and overseers; they are to look out for the welfare of the flock—the church—by training, caring for, and administering His love and precepts (Acts 14:23; 20:17, 28; 1 Tim. 3:2-7; 5:15; Titus 1:5-16; 1 Pet. 5:1-4).

We glorify God when we endure with our faith and character—no matter what we might face or experience. The chief purpose for Christians, above all else, is to glorify God (Luke 22:42; John 17:22; Eph. 4:1-16). Christ is our great example for respect and endurance; He endured and suffered for you, He took your place in God’s wrath, and as a sinless, innocent person, went to the cross for us all. We then follow in His steps—not for our salvation, as it has already been given to the Christian—but to show another picture to those who are watching us. We exemplify Him by being a good example! Why? He has healed and saved us, so we need to trust Him out of our gratitude, and allow Him to be our Shepherd, Guardian, and Lord over all.

The key to this passage is possessing the attitude that Christ is our employer so we do our work for Him. We should view our job as a mission field and keep coworkers and bosses in constant prayer. If you feel stress, hatred, lack of accomplishment, or if you are unhappy and in the wrong place, then pray more! We are to be our best for His glory, regardless of our circumstances (Rom. 8:17; Eph. 6:5-8;Phil. 2:1-11). We may have a paycheck from McDonald’s and a boss who may need some acne treatments, but our ultimate authority and manager is Christ Himself! We show our value—that Christ paid a price for us—so we in turn can respond with a good work ethic (1 Cor. 7:23). We must adjust our mindset to see work as an opportunity to please Him, and in so doing, be a blessing to those around us with our practical obedience and diligence! This allows us to do our best for Christ’s highest with excitement and passion in order to complete our work and call from the Lord. He asks us to love our call and pursue our work so we are doing our best for His glory. (Prov. 10:4; Rom. 12:11; Col. 3:23).

Here are some more Scriptures about being an employee: Exodus 23:12; 35:2; Proverbs 10:26; 25:13; Ecclesiastes 2:4; 5:12; Colossians 3:17, 22-25; 2 Thessalonians 3:10; 1 Timothy 6:2; Titus 2:9,10; 1 Peter 2: 18-20

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. How do you feel about authority figures? Do you automatically respect them? Despise them? Fear them? Want to be one of them if you are not already?

2. Why would Peter ask servants to obey their masters? Why nor lead an insurrection or an underground railroad (some Christians did these for good reasons)? How does this apply to you today?

3. What does it mean to you to accept the authority of those who are in authority over you? What about when they are harsh and cruel? Why is this hard for most Christians to understand?

4. How is this passage a call to be a good employee, student, and to strive with a good work ethic to be a model Christian?

5. How can this passage help you persist and to not give up or skip out on your opportunities and duty when it gets difficult? What is the balance between putting up with a hash environment and show Christ there and moving on to a new location?

6. How does a good worker reflect being a good witness for Christ and give Him glory? Why is Glorifying God so important? What would this mean to you in further practice?

7. How does suffering and enduring headships help us see a greater purpose in life in others and in God?

8. Why is it important to obey and allow our virtue to win others over in our work situations?

9. Why is the sinless nature of Jesus so important? How can what He did for you encourage you to remain faithful?

10. Knowing that Jesus faced all of the temptations we face and remained true and never disobeyed God help you when you are in a difficult situation?

11. How can you help urge yourself and others to learn to live with hardship (as long as there is no illegality or abuse), work for improvement so we can reform it by good character and the Gospel?

12. How can you do a better job at focusing on our duly and respect authority? How can knowing that we are doing it for God help you in this endeavor? How can the suffering of Christ help you go though situations that are difficult for you or outside your control?

All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God's name and our teaching may not be slandered. 1 Timothy 6:1

General idea: This passage is a tough one to understand in our postmodern, women’s liberation culture. We typically see it as harsh oppression and subjugation; however, this is not the point of the passage. Rather, it is about honor, order, and being practical for God’s glory. The primary call here is to a Christian wife married to an unsaved husband and the call to hold fast to Kingdom principles with gentleness and love. When we are gentle and loving, we provide an atmosphere of trust that is contagious. When we nag, manipulate, or go overboard with glamour, we create a negative atmosphere and push people away. No one is won to Christ by manipulation, hostility, or pretentiousness. Rather, people are won over by sound reasoning, respectful, godly examples, and the practice of love and kindness.

This is absolutely essential in a marriage. If one person in any relationship is a nagger—that is, a person who constantly finds fault in others, is annoying, one who scolds, complains, or is an overly pushy Christian—it creates anxiety and leads the other person away from Christ. This passage is about the essential conduct we are to have because our behavior is our witness. How we treat others shows Christ’s work in us.

The second point of this passage is the meaning of real beauty. It is; rather, Real beauty is in how one presents himself or herself, not in how one is fixed up with outward adornment, although this is not prohibited. It is a good idea to look as good as we can (As the saying goes, “If the house needs painting, then paint it!”), but beauty is also about one’s demeanor and how we show our love.

Vs. 1-6: This passage is about soteriology (salvation), how Jesus transforms even the vilest offender from his or her sins to His Way through grace. It is a call to incorporate the godly manners that lead our life and relationships. Our patterns of action are so important to the non-Christian; they must have an example, played out in their midst, to help them make a decision for salvation. We do not contribute in any way to our or another’s salvation; rather, God uses us in such a way that we become His example. Christianity was spreading more to the oppressed and women than any other group back then!

· Wives likewise be submissive. The context is submission to Christ, not to being domineered or mistreated. It is about the order and structure needed for a happy and fulfilling marriage (1 Pet. 2:13). This type of submission is a relational partnership with spiritual equality, not as a dictatorship or that of a slave or servant (Gal. 3:28)! Rather, it is the loving exercise of love and grace. Wives are asked to submit—as in giving respect to their husbands as the one who has the role of headship—as a witness for Christ, while husbands are asked to love and honor their wives. A Christian is to do it as an act of loving the Lord (1 Cor. 7; Eph. 5:21-27; Col. 3:18-21; Gal. 2:20-21; 5:22-26; 1 Thess. 3: 11-13; 4:1-8; 1 Tim. 2:8-15; James 4:7-8; 1 Pet. 3:7; 5:5).

· Without a word does not mean being silent, or not using the “Word of God (John 5:24);” rather, it is being wise in how we use words, being gentle, sensitive of character and conduct, not argumentative or preachy, and allowing true faith to be exemplified. Although being silent was a virtue for women then, here it indicates respect of the spouse and his concerns while not being rebellious, insubordinate, or condescending. This would allow for the opportunity of the Gospel to be heard and to be an influencer.

· Likewise/in the same way…obey refers to the principle of submission that Jesus Christ gives us, using humbleness and love—not domination. Verse seven teaches it is with understanding and love. This also refers to the reciprocal nature of submission (Eph.5:21-25), the context of 1 Peter 2:18-25. It can also refer to a comparison of other kinds of submission as in how Christ submitted to the civil authorities. In context, we are to be like sheep—their gentleness, not their stupid tendencies—in all areas of life.

· Be won. A spouse with good character will win them over; a hassling spouse will push them away! Godly behavior always wins out over arguments in witnessing! This was also essential to prove that Christianity was not subversive!

· Chaste/respectful/purity and reverence refer to the rules and society- approved behaviors. Back then, women were to be inconspicuous. They were to be enchanting and attractive, such as head coverings in the Middle East today (1 Cor. 11:2-16).

· Conduct …accompanied by fear refers to remaining to your commitment with Christ (Prov. 3:5)!

· Adornment is the stuff we put on ourselves to make us look good. This is not condemned, but it is not important and it will fade. However, our growth in Christ will not fade when we continue in Him! A real man, one after God’s heart, is attracted to a woman of virtue, not just to her physical appearance or fashion—and visa versa!

· Outward. True beauty is not about makeup or dress; it comes from spiritual maturity exemplified by meekness and a quiet spirit that shows His Spirit. It is about drawing attention to Christ and not to self. Moralists and philosophers at that time also spoke out on women’s over-adornment that led to sexual temptations.

· Arranging the hair. This is about being modest, not obsessing on our looks, trends, or fashion. They were cautioned to set themselves off from the pagans who used elaborate fashions, elaborately braided hair, and gold jewelry worn to adorn them so they would please the gods. Many Christian women and men, both then and today, are preoccupied with fashion and looks. The Bible calls us to please the One True God by seeking Christ and producing character. At the same time, be presentable; however, do not let it take away from virtue or become an obsession (1 Tim. 2:9-10).

· Calling him lord. This is not god or even godlike; it is like our word for “sir,” a term of respect and endearment in marriage. Sarah was a good example of one who trusted in God, and respected and obeyed her husband (Gen. 18:12; 33:13-14).

· Daughters, in context, refers to women who have a “submissive attitude,” like Sarah, and who exemplify the Fruit of the Spirit and confidence in Christ which produces attitude and character that is wondrous and contagious (Proverbs 31).

· Do good refers to our allegiance, loyalty, and commitment to Christ. Here, it is seeing the bigger picture of modeling Christ over how the spousal attitude and treatment are.

· Not afraid means to stay firm in faith and not allow circumstances to get the best of us. Our unbelieving spouse need not intimidate us when our confidence and commitment is in Christ; we remain loyal to our spouse because of our commitment to Christ. Making sure our respect of them is real and not pretentious shows this. However, this does not mean to purposely marry an unbeliever when one is a Christian; dire consequences will result (2 Cor. 6:14-18)!

· Terror refers to the strife and dysfunction that come from a household where submission, respect, and love are not working! In addition, allowing the fears and intimidation to be your focus and not Christ as Lord brings dysfunction!

Peter’s main theme was reducing marital strife, tensions, and allowing respect to create an atmosphere of communion and love. Women were expected to submit; if they did not, they were divorced and left destitute. For women and servants to change their religion was not a big deal as it was for men; for husbands, this was taking a big risk socially. Women could be charged with atheism and, at worst, could lose their marriage. For men, a greater social loss of property and positions could be experienced—even the loss of one’s life.

In Roman and Jewish cultures, the wife was expected to submit to harsh treatment by the husband—almost to the point of being property—and also to adopt his religion. Here, it is about the spouse being won over through love, not the escalating of conflict. Peter was seeking to balance the norms of society to prevent persecution in the church and strife at home. However, like Paul, he has great sympathy for the oppressed, including women, and offers liberation to women that they would not receive from society until nearly two thousand years later. Talking to women, let alone his instructions to love them was revolutionary back then!

Our lives as Christians are about how we glorify and honor our Lord; we can best do this by applying our faith and growth in Him to our relationships, especially protecting our closest ones. There is a phrase that says, “familiarity breeds contempt.” When we are close to someone, we tend to get careless in relating to him or her with faith and grace. We feel we do not need to, when, in reality, these are the people who need the most from us, even though we usually give them the least. Many marriages fail because of the neglect of effort put forth in them, like refusing to keep a car tuned and maintained. Even the very best car will not last very long if the owner does not care for it.

If you want to be successful in life and marriage, you need to get this point: the primary purpose of marriage is not to please ourselves (yeah, that surprised me too!), but to glorify and serve God. Our desires and pleasures are not God's number one priority! Yes, God wants us to be joyful, happy, and content, but being happy means focusing on Him and not on our circumstances. Thus, to have a successful marriage, you must be aware of what you are getting into and prepare for it. The most important guarantee for it to work is to follow His principles from His Word, not what you think, want, or have experienced. Remember, God designed marriage and us. He knows best (Col. 3:18-19; Eph. 5:21-27; James 4:7-8a; 1 Pet. 5:5)!

Consider this: without the right attitude and perspective on life, without glorifying God and following His Will, you will not find the real, quality love relationship for your life! You will be taking a big gamble that you get what is priceless and precious.

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

2. Why do some people become obsessive with looks, trends, or fashion? What can one gain from such things?

3. Why would people typically see this passage as harsh oppression and subjugation? Have you? Why, or why not? How is the point of this passage practical?

4. Why would Peter tell women to be submissive? How can this be good advice? How would a typical women today react and why? Is Peter telling women to stay in an abusive marriage?

5. How is being submissive reciprocal, as in “what goes around comes around?”

6. What would happen in a “bad marriage” if one of the partners sought to provide an atmosphere of trust that was contagious and to hold fast to Kingdom principles with gentleness and love? How would this be difficult? How would this pay off?

7. Do you believe that someone can be won for Christ by manipulation, hostility, or pretentiousness? Why, or why not? Why would it be better to win someone to Christ by sound reasoning, seeing respectful, godly examples, and the practice of love and kindness?

8. How would you describe what real beauty really is? How does going overboard with glamour and fashion attract someone? How does it repel? How is beauty shown by our demeanor and our demonstration of love?

9. How can the incorporation of godly manners be essential in a marriage or any relationship?

10. Why do you suppose Christianity was spreading more to the oppressed and women than any other group then?

11. How and why does good character win people over while a hassling attitude will push people away or make things worse? How does godly behavior always win out over arguments in witnessing?

12. Knowing that nagging, being annoying, scolding, complaining, or being overly pushy creates a worse marriage or a negative work environment help you be better in your demeanor? What can you do to work on how you come across to others in a marriage or in witnessing?

General idea: This passage has two main themes that tie together. The first is the role of the husband whose call it is to love his wife intimately, and with precious care. This is not about being served or even serving each other; rather, it is about co-serving with God to each other and then for others! This is to be a partnership, not a dictatorship. The theme poses the question do we see our spouse as someone just to take care of our needs or do we see her as our helpmate and co-laborer with Christ? We are called to see her as precious and not take her for granted. We are stewards of the precious love that God has extended to us; it needs to flow from us to other people in our lives, especially a spouse. This is to be our utmost responsibility, and done with care. It is a call to careful, steadfast love, like caring for a precious, priceless object.

The second theme is like a bookend holding up the theme of submission to God, and harmoniously relating to others. Real submission breeds closeness when it is formed from love. If it is subjugated, such a barrier to God is formed that even our prayers will not be heard! Thus, compassion, care, and love pave the way to effective, relational harmony and blessing from God. Pride and our strong-willed attitude set up a barrier, making all we do ineffective, destructive, and meaningless. If we want God to be attentive to us, we must do our part by being attentive to others without iniquity.

Vs. 7: Submission is respect, and thus is not to exceed the parameters of the will of God or of love and righteousness. As an example, submission is not an excuse to batter or put one’s wife down in any way. In the previous passage, Peter spoke to converted wives who had unbelieving husbands; now, it is the other way around. The directive to husbands is even more daunting than that given to the wives! Husbands are called to love, which is much greater in importance and prominence than submission! Love is what sets the tone and standard for the relationship.

· Be considerate refers to treating a spouse with the utmost care and love. Submission is also a response! Because the husband loves, because the husband cares, because the husband puts his wife’s best interests forward, the wife submits, and he earns her devotion. It is the husband’s responsibility to set the tone of love and care! Keep in mind that this was called for in a time and culture that considered women lower than farm animals! It was taught in a culture where the “alpha” male (i.e. the lead man of the family) ruled in absolute dominance for order, organization, structure, protection, and community. The mandate to love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7) was, and still is to some, an extreme wake-up call that commands the husband to thoroughly exhibit all of the qualities of biblical character in his relationship with his wife.

· Weaker partner refers to the physical condition of women, as in general lower/upper body strength, and perhaps also their social standing. The application is to show more consideration. This is not because of mental, spiritual, moral weakness, or inferiority, or that one is better than the other; rather, it is because God has placed, in the order of creation, the husband as head of the home, just as Christ is the head of the church. They have different roles, yet each one is equal in the sight of God! Thus, when the husband loves and respects his wife and earns her devotion, the result is the continual, mutual respect that builds an effective, strong marriage relationship.

· As heirs means fellowshipping together in Christ. This is referring to both husband and wife receiving the beneficiary love from Christ, equal in His sight and purpose, but with different roles. Thus, we show respect to our spouse because Christ has died for her just as He has for the husband (Gal. 3:28)!

· Hinder your prayers means the husband who fails to show consideration jeopardizes his spiritual formation. When we refuse to follow God’s clearly revealed will or are estranged from others, we become estranged in our relationship with God, thus cutting ourselves off from God’s blessings and power. There is a connection that goes deeper than we realize between how we treat others and how God responds to us, especially in a family situation. We are in relationship to Christ through the Church that then flows from the husband to the wife and children (Matt. 5:23-24; Rom. 8:14-17; Eph. 5:23-24; 1 Tim. 3:14-15; 5:1-2; 1 Pet. 1:14-17).

In ancient times, marriage contracts would advocate that the husband force his wife to submit with absolute obedience. They could throw out unwanted babies and, in the lower classes, make life miserable for them. In the higher class, there was more social pressure and liberation for women. Some of the philosophers stated since women are physically weaker (this was desirable for cohabitation), and Jewish theologians stated that they were also morally weaker, using Eve as the example.

However, Scripture does not uphold this! Peter and Paul emphasized a very radical idea to the churches and readers when they instructed them to love, and because of love to submit. To Paul, love was a duty (1 Corinthians 13). It was even considered weak by the macho mindsets of the times as well as with many people today. But, it is not weak; it is building the strength of a relationship and the bond of a family by creating a mutual partnership!

Vs. 8-12: Peter is concluding his line of reasoning in verses 2:13-3:7 to work within the boundaries of culture with the Fruit and Call from God. The bottom line is to be considerate in all that we do to whomever is in our life. Here, Peter is actually reminding his congregation to show love as if they have forgotten what Christ and the Fruit of the Spirit are all about. We must use this passage as a template, a Christian living checkup of how we are to treat others and see if we are healthy in Christ and in showing the work that He did in us (John 17:20-23; Rom. 12:9-21). This passage also echoes what James told us in Chapter Four.

· Sympathetic means understanding and identifying with another person, putting ourselves in their shoes so we can have real compassion.

· Do not repay. This is a call not to seek revenge or to retaliate against those who have wronged us (Prov. 20:22; Rom. 12:17). Peter is, perhaps, directly quoting Jesus in this passage. We are called to bless and do good to those who do not like us or who When we pay someone back to get even, we only end up escalating the issue and thus hurting ourselves and usurping God’s authority to judge (1 Cor. 4:12; 6:12; 6:18; Eph. 5:8-10; 1 Thess. 4:1-2; 5:12-15). This does not mean we are to endure abuse or unlawful actions; rather, it has to do with our attitude. It is a balance between the exercise of the Fruits of the Spirit and setting up boundaries to protect us (Prov. 16:32; 25:28; Rom. 13:12-142; Gal. 5:22-23; Tim. 2:22, Heb. 12:2; 13:4; 2 Peter 1:5-7).

· Insult with insult. Again, we are told not to retaliate. Nowhere in the O.T. does it say to hate your enemies (Ex. 23:4-5; Lev. 19:17-18; Prov. 25:21-22). Some have used Psalm 139:19-22 as an excuse; however, in context, the request is clearly for those who are wicked. Proverbs 25:21-22 tells us that when we overcome evil with good, it totally disorientates those who hurt us, sending them into chaos and confusion, until they are convicted or fall deeper into sin and death. This should give you a wake up call that this is the best revenge; let their own misdeeds haunt them, and let the perfect Judge deal with them!

· Bless means to help out (as in lending money), hospitality, various acts of kindness, and, most importantly, pray for them (Prov. 25:21-22;Matt. 5:44-46; Luke 6:27-35; 10:29-37).

· Whoever would love life is a quote from Psalm 34:12-16. The point of using an O.T. quote here is to reiterate the importance of this call to the pursuing of peace. This demands an active participation to get involved, not just sitting on a couch and hoping for it.

How many of us have ever ventured into a church that was filled with unkindness, where we were ignored or even mistreated? As a pastor, I have a tough battle to make sure my flock behaves so that Christ would be pleased. I can try my best to set an example and I can teach, but I cannot make them behave! Real, authentic Christian love only comes from real, authentic Christian formation. If someone is not growing in the Lord, they are not willing or able to treat others with love and respect. Care, compassion, and love will be moot, and the church will be an annoying club of stubborn pride, devoid of harmony and brotherly love.

In the Ephesians passage, the verb for love (Greek: agapete) designates a continuous routine of action all of the time, not just when one feels like it. Christ loved the church not because it was holy, but in order to make it holy! Thus, we are not only called to find the person who is best for us, but to work at keeping the relationship within the parameters of love, submission, and commitment. Even if you made that wrong choice through impatience, wrong thinking, lust, and/or sin, you still have the call and opportunity to make it right, to make it work with the mate you have! Remember that special something that brought you together in the first place, and that can be rekindled into a roaring fire (Eph. 5:25-33).

The wife is in submission as a response to the husband’s love for her and his providing, as well as for having her best interest and care at heart. It is like our response to Christ with love and service because of His free gift of grace. We do not earn salvation for our service; rather, it is a fruit of our gratitude. In the same way, this is how submission works. It is not to be forced, but offered freely in response to love. It is something we replicate as we respond in kindness, so our response to each other is fueling the other’s response, and so forth. In this way, we will be escalating love and kindness instead of repression and dysfunction.

Christ and the church are the prime models for us in a lifelong commitment of monogamous marriage. He did not give up on us when things went from bad to worse. His grace, forgiveness, and perseverance came through. It is the model relationship for the home, for the love of children, and for the fellowships and relationships we are to have. The church is the bride of Christ, and He loves her. Your spouse, or spouse-to-be, is your bride or groom with whom righteousness, love, commitment, and holiness are to be practiced and exercised in the best and fullest way possible (Revelation 21:1-2)!

Remember Christ did not give up on us when things went from bad to worse with our sin. His grace, forgiveness, and perseverance came to us anyway!

6.What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1.What do you have trouble remembering—anniversaries, birthdays, facts and figures, etc?

2.Why is the role of the husband to be in a partnership with his wife and not be a dictator? What happens when it is not?

3.How is love like stewardship? What happens when love is being harmonious to others? What happens when the husband fails to show consideration and/or to follow God’s clearly revealed will?

4. Do you believe that the directive to husbands is even more daunting than what has been given to the wives? How so? Why not? Consider the culture and times!

5.How does submission help us be considerate to others? What about in a marriage relationship? Do you think a deeper connection develops when we are considerate? Have you experienced this?

6.Why do you suppose Peter has to remind his congregation to show love as if they have forgotten what Christ and the Fruit of the Spirit are all about? When have you needed this reminder? What can you or your pastor do to remind your congregation?

7.How would you define the exercises of compassion, care, and love? How does this pave the way to effective relational harmony and blessing from God?

8.Have you ever had a problem with pride or a strong-willed attitude in creating and/or keeping good healthy relationships? How does pride set up a barrier that makes all we do ineffective, destructive, and meaningless?

9. If we want God to be attentive to us, we must do our part too, being attentive to others without iniquity. How is this so? How can this be made more in your life?

10. Some men think being considerate to their wives is being weak according to the macho mindset. Why do you suppose this is so? What can the church do to help people with this mindset to turn to God’s precepts?

11. How is this passage a template, a Christian living check-up of how we are to treat others? How could your church be healthier in Christ and show the work that He did in them? What can you do about it?

12. What can you do to work within the boundaries of your culture with the Fruit and Call from God to be more considerate? What would this look like? Can you think of a specific instance for this?

General idea: This passage begins Peter’s discourse on suffering (3:13-5:11). When something bad happens to someone who is bad, we should not be surprised. We should expect to suffer if we do evil and reproach to others. We may think because we are in Christ, we are not subject to the laws of society. However, we are not above others in rights and liberties; we are only saved by His grace. This passage has some more tough stuff for us to grapple with—a call to endure suffering for doing what is right and good while serving our Lord. The logical thinking is if we do good, then good should be paid back to us in return, and in most cases this is what happens. However, in a sin-infested world we sometimes get paid back with evil for our faithful goodness and sincerity. Peter is warning us of the realities of the world, as those who are not in Christ (even misguided fellow Christians) may come against us in harsh ways because they do not like to be convicted or bothered about their will, mindsets, and sin; so, they attack us.

The other aspect to this passage is the continual theme that Christ, as our example, did not fight back. When something bad happens, we tend to quickly resort to lawsuits, and sometimes even physical actions to pay them back. But, our call is to not pay back evil with evil. Most cultures see this attitude as indicative of weakness and helplessness, but God sees it as a display of trusting in Him, and as displaying real strength with meekness and self-control. By being gentle when someone is challenging us with words, deeds, threats, or abuse, we show Christ, help defuse the situation, and make a huge impact for those who need an example to follow to know Christ.

Vs. 13-17: Life has suffering as a prime motif; everything suffers, as we will find out in the next passages. The emphasis is not on answering why; rather, how we can live though it. There is a glory to pursue in life greater than our desires and emotions, and that is how we can grow closer to God and make Him known to others around us. Thus, we need not fear and worry; rather, we should pray, prepare, and trust in God (Isa. 8:12).

· Harm you indicates rhetorical meaning that when we do good, who would hurt us? However, we will suffer for righteousness and it is not realistic to think otherwise. Thus, we must prepare our attitude and faith for it (Pet. 4:12). This refers to when others seek to harm us, as the more we exhibit His Fruit, the less likely, in most cases, we will be harmed unless it is outright persecution. This was, perhaps, a Jewish axiom that when we are good to others, they are good to us. The better our behavior and attitude are towards others, the better we are treated. The worse we are, the worse we will be treated.

· Even…suffer. When we are in Christ, no harm will come to us that is not allowed for a purpose; so, we can trust in Him and endure.

· Blessed echoes Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:10-12. This is more than an emotional state of satisfaction, well-being, and contentment because it results from being approved by God for our fulfilling our duty. It is enjoying God’s special favor and His grace working in us. It is not based on how we are feeling or our circumstances; rather, it is the reality of God’s grace, love, and favor in us. It is like being told by our parent/father that he is proud of us. Here, it refers to when we suffer for the truth, we are blessed beyond measure and rewarded for our faithfulness (Psalms 1; 15)!

· Fear. We are to fear God, not other people. Peter was seeking to pastor his people so they could make sound decisions and not be afraid of those who hate God. We can take comfort that no force can take away what Christ has given. Our security is in Him, not in how we are treated (Psalm 56:4; Luke 12:4-7; Rom. 8:31-39).

· Set apart. This is referring to the divinity of Jesus Christ, that He is God, He is Divine, and He is the True Holy God (Isa. 8:13)! Our call is to make a firm, ongoing, deep commitment to Christ.

· Be prepared means we are the ambassadors of Christ and are called to show, through our lifestyle and words, that He is The Lord and Savior (2 Cor. 5:20). We may come across hostile people who hate God and will hate us for being in Him; even so, we are still to operate with respect and gentleness!

· Answer refers to “apology,” as in apologetics, to give a defense as a lawyer defends his client. We should know about our faith and with our best efforts and abilities share it with others, even use words when necessary! A good Christian should know about the Bible and faith, and practice it, not only to grow, but also to share it with other people. We do not need to know all of the answers (I certainly do not), but we should know where to get the info and then get back to them. We are always to share with maturity of character even when others combat us. Our faith will eventually undermine those who are against us. Our apologetic ("answer") is always to be given with love, never in degrading terms.

· Ashamed. Good Christian conduct will be convicting to those who are not in the faith or have backslidden; then guilt and the Holy Spirit can work on them. At the same time, when we are above reproach, it is hard for anyone to make a slanderous accusation against us because it will be obviously untrue (1 Pet. 2:12-15).

· God’s will means all that happens is in the providence of God. Here, it signifies that our suffering should only be from others seeking to harm us, not from making wrong decisions or sin (1 Pet. 1:6-7; 4:19).

Peter was trying to get his people to trust further in Christ and thus have more patience when times got tough, because people will come against us all. If someone pays back your good deeds and words with evil, God will judge them, in His better way and better time. Do not usurp His authority; allow Him to be God, allow Him to shame those who harm you. If the abuse is unlawful or you are being harmed to the detriment of your metal and physical state, then involve other church members as stated in Matthew 18 in addition to any civil authority. However, in doing so, we still must show the love of Christ. There is a balance between being meek and carrying a sword or using it to defend and protect (Luke 22:36; Acts 25:11; Rom. 13:4-5).

Vs. 18-22: This passage is about how we are as a witness, and that this is more important than our feelings to get even or hesitancy to do good. This comes down to how we, as an example of the Lord, are being a witness for the Lord. Our desire to fight back is a temporary solution to our emotional struggle. This only ends up escalating the situation and proving true the critics of Christ and His Church. When we remain in control of our emotions and physical reactions, our witness will resonate into eternity.

· Christ died, Jesus takes our sins and covers them from God’s sight by His work on the cross! This is called atonement. We are justified and saved by Him and Him alone; no work on our part contributes to it. We only respond, out of our gratitude, to do good (Lev. 17:11; Job 15:14-16; Psalm 5:4-6; Isa. 53:4-6; 64:6; Jer. 44:4; Hab. 1:13; Matt. 27:37; Luke 22:37; John 2:2; 4:10; Rom.10: 2-3; Gal. 3:13; 4:4; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14-22; 2:14; Heb. 2:17; 9:11-15; Rev. 1:5).

· For the unrighteous. Jesus not only paid our debt of sin, He is the example of how we are to be in our conduct and character (Phil. 2:5-11).

· Made alive by the Spirit. Who and how we are should manifest what the Spirit does in us. The image is that God and the Spirit, separate in distinction, yet One God, gives us our witness along with our own spirit (John 10:17-18; Acts 2:32; Rom. 1:4; 8:1-11; Gal. 1:1; 4:6; Eph 1:20).

· Preached to the spirits in prison. The theme is God’s just judgment and His offering of undeserving grace that must be accepted by faith to commensurate. Also, as suffering servants, we are vindicated! There are two views to this verse. 1. Jesus, as a “theophany” (His pre-incarnate state, meaning before He became to earth as Jesus), preached through Noah and the rest of O.T. personalities to call sinners to repentance. 2. Jesus, in those three days before His resurrection, visited “Sheol (Hebrew),”/“Hades (Greek),” the place of the dead. As the Apostle’s Creed says, He “descended into Hell,” and gave one last opportunity for repentance to the sinners and/or the fallen angels who rebelled before His declaration of victory (Gen. 6:1-4; Job 1:6; 2:1; 2 Pet. 2:4-5; Jude 6). This does not mean that Jesus “finished” His work of our redemption there or fought with Satan for the keys of Heaven!

· Sons of God/spirits refer to a type of angel (Gen. 6:1- 4; Job 1:6; 2:1; Rom. 8:38-39; Eph. 1:21-23; 6:12).

· Water…baptism. Water is a significant image in Scripture from the creation, to Noah, and then to John the Baptist and the call to baptize. The flood symbolizes sin and judgment that point to our need for salvation (2 Pet. 3:6-7) as well as how God intervenes and saves. Baptism symbolizes our identification from the sign and seal of the salvation we received from Christ and also represents Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. This tells us the importance of sincerity in repentance and baptism and the proclamation of our faith.

· The removal of dirt. Baptism is not to be just a ritual, rather our response for the gift of His grace, so we make a declaration, a promise to be a committed Christian of principles and virtue (Gen. 7:7; Rom. 6:3-4; 1 Pet. 4:1).

· Right hand means status and a display of power and authority. Here, it refers to Jesus as being Sovereign, Supreme, and fully God (Eph. 1:20-23; Col. 1; Heb. 1:3).

God is the One who keeps us and rewards us. Even when the world is falling apart around us, He cares for us, so we have no need to worry or fret. If we do good (and we should always strive our best to do so), people will come against us. We should not stop or become afraid, frustrated, or disillusioned; rather, we should keep it up, showing the work of Christ in us. We do this by worshiping Him! Let Him be your Lord; that means He leads in all aspects of your life. We do this by being readers of the Word so we can be doers of the Word, and be a person who is the Lord’s display case as the Word of Life is played out in your actions and relationships.

How do you display the wonder of His love and grace in your daily life? How do you react when someone at school or work hurts you? How do you hope in Him, worship Him, and allow Him to be your lead? What you say, how you say it, what you do, and how you do it will be prime witnesses for our Lord. We are called to be ready to explain our life in Christ, but we cannot do that if we are not showing that work of Christ. When we do, it will always be in the parameters of the Fruit of the Spirit. If we argue, we demean our Lord who Himself did not argue when He was persecuted. When we argue, it puts the other person on the defensive and they do not listen; therefore, they do not learn. Our efforts of evangelism will not only be wasted, but it could also have a negative effect, doing more harm than good. Thus, we are called to respect, listen, and be gentle so the real Gospel message goes out from us not only in how we are, but also in how and what we say.

He suffered and endured the ultimate evil for being the Ultimate Good, and did the ultimate good for us. He is our example in life and upon whom our eyes must always stay! Thus, we are called to be enthusiastic and faithful! It is far more important how we are to others than anything we say; if we are not what we should be, the message gets compromised and distorted!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6.What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1.When something bad happens to you or to someone around you, what do you tend to do first? What should you do?

2.How do you hope in Christ, worship Him, allow Him to be your lead? Does knowing that your security is in Him and not how you are treated help you when you are going though a tough time?

3.How do you react when someone at school or work hurts you? How should you react?

4.What do you think about the concept of suffering? Why does God call us to endure suffering, even for doing what is right and good, while serving Him? What does it mean when we remain faithful in suffering?

5.How does the fact that Christ is our example in suffering give you hope and endurance?

6.Given that our call is to not pay back evil with evil, why do you think most cultures and people may see this as being weak and helpless? How do you see it? How should you see it?

7.How would you explain that there is a greater glory we are to pursue in life? How do your desires and emotions play in this? How should they be used?

8.Why do you suppose that the emphasis found in the Bible about suffering does not answer why, but rather tells how we are to live though it? What does this mean to you?

9.Have you experienced that when we are good to others they are good to us? How so? What do you do when someone is challenging you with words, deeds, threats, or abuse? What can you do to help defuse the situation?

10. What happens when someone is gentle with you when you are going though a tough time? What can you do to be a person who is gentle and gives hope and respect to others for the faith? What would your life look like by doing this?

11. How do you react when someone at school or work hurts you? How should you? How can the reality of God’s grace, love, and favor help your endurance and faith in your circumstances?

12. How can you prepare your attitude and faith for suffering? When we are in Christ, no harm will come to us that is not allowed for a purpose. Knowing this, how can you further trust in Him and endure all that comes your way?

General idea: Are you chasing your desires or our Lord? The answer to this question will determine what direction in life you go as well as if, when, and how sin will entice you to fall! Sin is coming; we can either draw near to God to stay clear, or draw near to sin and thus away from God and His best for us. The great news is that Christ gives us the ability to stand firm in Him. The key is, we need to want to! Peter’s people were being slandered and taken advantage of, and they were becoming disillusioned. Peter’s call was to stand firm in faith and not worry what others do as long as we look to Christ wholeheartedly (1 Pet. 2:12,15, 23; 3:9, 16; 4:4,14). Thus, the best defense is the offense of righteousness and demonstrating the good life in Christ!

This passage gives us comfort in suffering because Christ Himself suffered. He, who is God incarnate, who totally did not deserve to suffer, suffered on our behalf. He endured great physical, mental, and spiritual pain on our behalf, and exemplified the attitude and conduct we are to have when we go through the tough stuff of life. The call for us is to be prepared and equip ourselves for what lies ahead in life. We must have our expectations based on reality and in faith, so when something comes our way—whether it is a blessing or a problem—we can take it, handle it with excellence, learn, and grow from it. Then, in turn, we can be a blessing to others because of it. However, we cannot do that if we are not following Christ and taking heed to His example, His grace, and His love so we want to respond. Otherwise, our desires will fill that gap and will get the best of us. The sins of others and the sins of our heart will break us down and take us over unless we focus on Christ, His ways, and His path.

Vs. 1-6: The challenge to this call is the world’s ways. Sin is so enticing we can easily slip off God’s path. Thus, we need to be willing to suffer so sin does not entice us. We become more guarded against sin because a bigger picture is in our sight—Christ, His example, and our willingness and commitment to follow. When we see Him and not our personal viewpoints and desires, we will grow, mature, and be prepared for anything!

· Therefore is a parenthetical term that refers to a conclusion from the previous chapter, 3:18-22, and is now presenting us an application. We are in union with other Christians as we are all bonded to Christ and we may suffer unfairly when we do good. Suffering also bonds and helps form us deeper in Him. It is not to be seen as shame. Rather, it is an honor to serve our King (Rom. 6:1-14; Phil. 2:5-11; 1 Pet. 3:21).

· Christ suffered. Our Lord withstood the full brunt of all human temptations needlessly, yet purposely (Mark 1:12-13, Heb. 2:12; 4:15). He was a man, subject to the power and enticement of sin. He did not need to do this, but for our sake He did. He was fully man and identified with us. He remained sinless and took our sins upon Himself. Now, sin has no power over Him or us other than what we allow on ourselves (Rom. 6:1-10; 8:3; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 5:14; 1 Pet. 2:22)!

· Arm yourselves refers to as soldiers train and prepare for battle, we are to be trained and are to be prepared with Christ's attitude, outlook, knowledge, and experience. We are to prepare for injustice and suffering!

· God's will is the determining factor in life! It all comes down to this; will you follow His will, or yours and the world’s? Which one do you think brings the most blessings and contentment?

· Time in the past refers to sin and its power to weigh us down so it defines who we are and traps us in the past. We all have past mistakes and wrong choices, but Christ freed us so we no longer need to be weighed down by them! Peter’s congregation had a pagan background that was very alluring; he is telling them (and us) not to let it draw them or become a part of their new life (Rom. 1:12:13; 6:1-14, 19; Gal. 5:19-21)!

· Debauchery means unrestrained indulgence, seeking sinful, physical gratification, or giving into one’s desires. This leads to being merciless and unscrupulous in one’s dealings with others! When we fight against one another, especially in the church, it is hurtful and even pathetic in God’s eyes (Gen. 4:8; Duet. 25:17-19; Joshua 7; Matt. 21: 1-17; Luke 9:54; Rom. 13:13; 2 Cor. 12:21; Eph. 4:19).

· Lust refers to sexual immorality, meaning evil desires that trap us and bring down others who are around us—the very opposite of God’s call for us.

· Orgies refers to great excess, such as over-eating and Bulimia, sex, and multiple partners. This was considered common practice to the Greeks. They used the rationale that they were pleasing their gods, yet it ended their civilization and led to the Dark Ages!

· Carousing refers to wild parties, over-drinking of alcohol, and general excess.

· For this reason. Peter is strengthening his position, referring to the power of the Gospel and our responsibility to heed it. These early Christians were seeing their friends, families, and neighbors in sin and were confused about their role. This is also a heads up for judgment that is coming! There will be no occasion for people to be saved after they die (John 5:24; Heb. 9:27).

· Preached to those who are dead probably refers to the people who had died since Peter’s church was started and the arrival of this Epistle. This may also refer to 1 Peter 3:19-20 (see last study). The definitive reason for us to proclaim the Gospel is so that God's elect in a wicked world may see faith demonstrated and explained, to see the work of the Holy Spirit in salvation, and to have eternal life.

· Be judged refers to that we will all die and be held accountable for what we have done with Jesus’ dying for us. Also, we have to realize that the world will not understand Christ; therefore, it will not understand you (Acts 2:22-24, 36; 3:13-15; 5:30-32; 7:51-53).

· Regard to the Spirit. We now have spiritual renewal and assurance because Christ has obtained for us victory and triumph over death and sin (Rom. 6:5-9; 1 Cor. 15:25-26).

Vs. 7-11: The end of the world is coming! Life and our opportunities are limited; thus, we are to make every effort to represent Christ and make the most of what we are given for His glory. We are stewards of all that we have, whether small or great. The better we use our gifts, the more generous He is with us with more gifts, abilities, and opportunities. We are called not to waste our opportunities, but to be diligent and faithful with our call, abilities, and prayer with love and hospitality. Do what God has called you to do and do it with passion, truth, and in love!

· Is near refers to the period from the Resurrection of our Lord to His Second coming; this is called the Last Days. This is not a time reference, meaning either limited or unlimited time, although it does mean that the longer we go, the less time we have. We can have a week left or another two thousand years. The point here is the End of Days is a period of time and covenant with Christ, and it will be marked by great sufferings. No one will be immune; we will all have to give account for our life. Looking forward to the End of Days and Christ's return is also meant to encourage and influence the attitudes and actions of suffering Christians (John 5:27; Acts 17:31; Rom. 2:5, 16), therefore be in serious prayer (Dan. 12:1-2; Acts 2:17; 1 Tim. 4:1; 1 Pet. 1:20).

· Pray is meant to line us up in His will and with His empowerment (Luke 18:1; 1 Cor. 7:5; Eph. 6:18; 1 Thess. 5:17; 1 Pet. 3:7; 1 John 5:14-15).

· Love covers means that real love continually forgives (Matt. 18:21-22; 1 Cor. 13:5; Eph. 4:32; 1Thess. 4:9-10; 2 Pet. 1:7; 1 John 4:7-11). This means we are to overlook the faults and transgressions of others against us within reason and with love. We are also not to gossip or slander one another (Prov. 10:12; James 5:20)!

· Hospitality specifically refers here to taking in travelers with generosity—not grudgingly or with complaining. In general, since we have Christ’s love flowing in us, it should flow to others around us. This means we are to be willing to give preference to others, to look out for and look after one another, and to share, with discernment, what God has given us, including our family, home, finances, and food. We are to have an attitude of stewardship where we do not own anything because we are merely the caretakers for the real owner, God. He desires us to share His stuff, and we comply out of reverence and gratitude to Him. Thus, as we come along side others, we are to welcome them and act out our faith in real, helpful kindness, generosity, and deeds. This includes providing help and lodging to fellow Christians, helping those who are being persecuted, and helping out in our community (Matt. 25:34-43; Luke 10:30-37; Rom. 12: 3-8, 13: 16:33; 1 Cor. 12:1-7; 1 Timothy 3:2; 5:10; Titus 1:8; Hebrews 13:2; 3 John 1:5-8).

· Use whatever gift means to practice your spiritual gifts, and realize that the diversity we have is beneficial for one another. It also means being charitable or generous to others with what Christ has given you, and to serve Him without being held back by fear, time, or lack of talent. As Christians, we are to typify faith and reason together so we can exhibit the maturity needed to make wise decisions and have a purpose in life. This also means directly caring for those in need, such as the sick, infirmed, and poor. However, some Christians will have a specific call and empowerment to do this. People in the world may be more concerned for their own needs and agendas than they are for God’s clear doctrine and purpose, but as Christians, we are called to go beyond ourselves to serve others well (Titus 2). Kindness is the proof of authenticity (Rom. 2:1-4; 12:4-21; 16:1; 1 Cor. 12:7-11; Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:12-14; 1 John 3:16-23)!

· Very words of God refers to Scripture, the words that God has spoken to us. This means to be careful how you speak and minister as we sometimes speak for God as He uses us!

· God may be praised. Here, this means for us to be good stewards, as we are called to live, serve, and do all that we do in life for the honor and glory of our Lord and Savior (Acts 7:38; Rom. 3:2; 1 Cor. 1:26-31; Jude 24-25)!

Does Love cover you? Do you use it to cover others? We are to be fueled and empowered by love in all situations. Christian love is the turning of our backs on our self-concerns and facing our neighbors. It is the surrender of our will to His. If love does not take us beyond our self-interests, then we have only lust and pride, not real love! God's love must be our model for life. It must flow into us from Christ, and in return, flow out from us to those around us. God's love is the ultimate power for the Christian. Love is more than a feeling; it has segments and characters to it. Love is also a choice, a decision that must be perused and worked on (John 13:1; 15:13; 1 Corinthians 13:3; 1 John)!

God does not want us to be controlled by the past or to be fearful or cowardly. Rather, we are to learn from our experiences and grow from them, but not be tied to them so they become our identity. We have been born again in Christ; our old life is old, and it is no longer who we are. Thus, we are to grow closer to Him and be an example to others who are still in the old life without being influenced and enticed by them. Our focus needs to be what is going on now, what God is doing, and how we can contribute to it. Not just what can I get, but what can I learn and gain to be better for His glory? Take comfort; God does indeed have a plan for you even when you cannot see it. His will for your growth in Him is clear! He wants you to be faithful and good so others can see in you a demonstration model for the new life that they can have too. He gives you the ability, the power, and the strength to endure and to enjoy (Gal. 6:7)! The most important aspect is for us to keep our eyes focused on Christ, with racehorse blinders on to block off the rest.

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. How would you describe your personality—a person who likes to just do it, or one who would rather watch others carefully and then do it, or one who just likes to think about it and never gets around to do it?

2. Are you chasing your desires or our Lord? How can the answer to this question help determine what direction you take in life?

3. How has sin enticed you in the past? How has it become an “identity” for you or for others whom you have known?

4. When others come against you, how is the best defense an offense of righteousness and demonstrating the good life in Christ?

5. Knowing that our Lord Jesus Christ did not deserve to suffer, yet still did, and endured great physical, mental, and spiritual pain on our behalf help motivate you in times of hurting and confusion?

6. What does it mean to exemplify the attitude and conduct of Christ? What would that look like in your life?

7. When something comes your way, whether it is a blessing or a problem, how can you take it, handle it with excellence, and learn and grow from it? How would your walk with Christ grow and in turn be a blessing to others if you did this?

8. What does it mean to wholeheartedly look to Christ? How can you better implement this in your life? What would your life look like with this mindset at full blast?

9. Why does God not want us to be controlled by the past or to be fearful or cowardly? How can you have a better mindset to learn and grow from your experiences?

10. What can you do to be on guard against the sins and enticements of others? If you are not, how do you suppose the sins of your heart would break you down and take you over? What can you do about it?

11. How does the fact that the great news of Christ gives us the ability to stand firm in Him take you through your tough days? How can it better keep you from stress and worry?

12. What has caused people you know to become disillusioned? What can you do to stand firm in faith and not worry about what comes along in life?

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! (Philippians 2:5 – 8)

General idea: Persecutions and sufferings have a reason and a purpose! They have a way of refining and purifying us to allow the waste products of pride and selfishness to be tossed aside while His real redemptive work and sanctification comes into us in power and conviction. When the filth of pride has been removed (and God will use whatever to do this—even extreme suffering), we become more real and relevant to others. We also become better, more passionate witnesses when we remain faithful in Christ in spite of whatever we go through. Other people will become purified and better able to know Him and make Him known because of our lives, experiences, and dealings with others. The pretenders and counterfeit Christians will drop out of their dysfunctional service and their pride will no longer infest us, as people will see the real, wondrous, risen Lord displayed in the faithful.

Sufferings are also a warning, a sign to get right with God. He is the Great Judge and He has the right and power to do as He wills. He will show us our sins; if we are not convicted to repentance, we will suffer. This suffering has no purpose or glory other than to punish. We cannot blame God for this punishment for we bring it on ourselves! However, we can also be assured that when we are faithful, our sufferings serve to glorify Christ and to show Him and His majesty to others. We will be powerfully and effectively used in ways that will echo into eternity. Our time here is short; our time with Him is eternal.

Vs. 12-14: Trials are normal and should be welcomed. The theme here is to be prepared. Times are tough now, but they will get worse, so watch out! The reference here is to Nero, who was using Christians as the scapegoats for his actions as he went insane and burned down Rome. The world was now coming against the early Christians, but worse things were ahead. We are to expect bad things—not to seek them, bring them about, or rationalize our sin. Rather, we are to seek Him and His glory. We are to see persecution and bad things as opportunities to get closer to God and closer to one another. Life is not about what we have and what we lose; it is about our connection with God and with others. The question we need to ask ourselves is are we prepared? What will we do when times get tough and then get tougher?

· Dear friends/Beloved means "loved ones." It is a pastoral expression that indicates sincere love that shows care, tenderness, compassion, and affection. This expression is intended to show and give hope and real love to those who are weary in the midst of persecution (1 Pet. 1:22; 4: 8).

· Do not be surprised. Christ, who being God of the universe suffered; why should we be surprised when we go through it (Matt. 16:21-23; John 15:18; Col. 1:24-27; 2 Tim. 3:12; 1 John 3:13)? At this time—in 64 A.D.—Rome was laying siege to Jerusalem, and many Christians were either being killed or captured as slaves and being burned alive by Nero to light his garden. Bad times are coming, so do not be surprised and lament; rather, get ready and learn to grow from them. Daniel 12 tells us that there will be great suffering before the End of Days when the wicked will be judged. The Jews believed if they suffered, they would hasten the end of days. Peter once scoffed at the idea that either he or Christ would suffer (Matt. 16:21-23). Peter’s people were wondering if this was the end. All believers in all times have wondered if we are in the end times. The point is not if we are, but how we are in them with character and faithfulness!

· Painful trials/Fiery trial is figurative; it alludes to a furnace that melts down metal to flush out impurities. It means sufferings will show proof of your faith (Psalm 66: 9-10; Peter 1:6-7). This refers to any loss of physicality or property, but even more in losing our earthly relationships because of Christ. The Spirit that raised Christ also rests on us and will raise us! We have to beware that suffering can persuade us to doubt God's love and plan for us (Job 2:9; 2 Cor. 2:15-16)!

· But rejoice means rejoice in all things, including suffering, because we have His Divine grace and love. At the same time, we are responsible for moving ahead with our faith (Eph. 6:16; Phil. 2:12-13; James 1:2; 1 Pet. 5:8-9). This is an opportunity for us to show our good attitude and to be motivated (Matt. 24:30; Luke 17:30).

· Participate in the sufferings of Christ. As the Church universal, we are collectively the Body of Christ. Thus, when a Christian or a church suffers, so does He. Our sufferings do not add to His work of redemption or earn anything because of it; rather His sufferings cover us as atonement. It further identifies and intensifies us in Him (Rom. 8:17; 2 Cor. 1:5; Phil. 1:29; Col. 1:24).

· Insulted because of the name of Christ. We can have staying power in suffering because we have exultation in Him, so it does not matter what else we have or do not have (Matt. 5:11-12; John 15:18-20; Acts 5:41; 14:22; Rom. 8:17; 2 Cor. 1:5; Phil. 3:10; 2 Tim. 3:12; 1 Pet. 1:6-7).

· Blessed means fortunate, because what we will gain in eternity will out-weigh anything we experience (Luke 6:22-23). We are also fortunate because the presence and power of the Spirit and His glory rest on us!

· God is the God of Judgment also; He will have us, His children, give an account. How much more will those who refuse His grace give an account (Prov. 11:31; Ezek. 9)!

The key to dealing with suffering is a willingness to be anxious for Christ—to seek Him, and to have a firm desire for Him so nothing else that the world offers even interests us! Also, do not see it as a personal attack; rather, see it as an opportunity to be better for His glory!

Vs. 15-19: We will have friends who will think it strange that we have decided to follow and serve God. They will not understand and even try their best to entice us away. When their efforts fail, they and others will turn on us, betray us, and even become our enemies. Our comfort comes in knowing that for whatever they say or do, they will be held to account before our most Holy God. They are accountable for what they do, and they have the opportunity to receive Him. If they do not, it is not your fault as long as you exemplify Christ to the best of your ability with tact and maturity.

· It should not be. Do not come into suffering by your own misdeeds! Watch your conduct because when we suffer, we glorify Christ. However, there is no glory in evil acts, causing suffering in any way, or our pride thinking it will draw God’s favor. The only charge a Christian should face is being a Christian!

· Meddler refers to people who scorn others, cynics, or those who are busybodies and snoop into the affairs of others negatively. Do not condescend to others!

· Christian. This term only appears twice in the Bible, and identifies a follower of Christ. It was only used by those who were persecuting the believers and was a term of shame and scorn—like calling someone a thief (Acts 11: 26; 26:28)! The point here is that it is noble to suffer for doing right. The term "Christian” eventually became our designation; we are never to be ashamed when we suffer, as it glorifies Christ!

· Time for judgment means beware: judgment is still coming! Sufferings and trials purify, refine, and strengthen us. They focus us on what is important and true, and away from the trivialities of the daily and the sinful life, drawing us deeper and more powerfully to Him (Mal. 3:1-5; Heb. 12:1-13). Peter was using this theme to encourage his people and us that God is still in control; His Kingdom is here and it is coming! We can then be faithful in Him.

· What will come. All that happens to us, when we are obedient, is the will of God! This is a rhetorical question meaning since we will be held accountable, so much more will those who are against Him and us. This also points to the judgment of the Church, where the fakes and the ungodly are held accountable and condemned while the righteous ones are exulted (Jer. 25:18-25; Ezek. 7:7-12; 9:6; Amos 3:2; 1 Pet. 4:6). Suffering can also be used as discipline! Thus, always seek the reason for suffering. Did you cause it? A real Christian whose faith is in Christ has no need to fear judgment; rather, he or she should look forward to it and to their reward (Phil. 1). The prideful and unbelievers on the other hand….

· Hard for the righteous to be saved. Peter is saying that even those who conformed could not be saved without God’s supernatural intervention! This is a quote from Proverbs 11:31, and refers to phony righteousness. There is a clear distinction between those who are in Christ, who follow His precepts and conform to and from His love, and those who are pretending to be in Him or do not conform to Him (Psalm 11:6; 73:18-19; Prov. 1:18, 31).

· What will become of the ungodly. Even though God gives us His grace and elects us, we still must respond to Him. This is difficult even with the Spirit’s intervention, as our sinful nature always rejects God. We have no salvation, hope, or purpose without God’s grace (Acts 26:1-11; Rom. 1: 10; 17 3:23; 5:5; 8:2; 10:5-8; Gal. 1:13-14; Phil. 3:4-6).

· Commit themselves. This is a prayer similar to a benediction as our lives are committed into God’s hands and care (Psalm 31:5; Luke 23:46). Entrust yourselves to Christ! Faith requires our faithfulness to continue in, to pursue, and to build on what God has given. Even when we face extreme suffering, God is still is with us, empowering us. We can remain faithful and grow from our experiences. Thus, we must not become disillusioned, fearful, or turn away from Him! Faithfulness will be rewarded beyond our grasp to envision it (Micah 6:8)!

Are you being harassed, gossiped about, slandered, or mistreated? If not, it will come. We are called to prepare for it and seek reconciliation if possible; our good character will prevent others the ammunition to fight us. However, we also need to examine what we are doing wrong. Is there reason from our behavior that what they say is true? If so, we need to mend our ways. If their accusations are false, then take comfort as Christ went through it, and He will take you through it too. You will learn, grow, and be stronger, and God will be glorified by your good faith! We have to get this important point: suffering has a purpose and a reason—it is for our benefit and God’s glory. We should never think of it as shame or as meaningless; rather, we should see it as a badge of honor. Because we live in Christ, we can have great confidence and hope. This material world is very temporary; we are being shaped for eternity!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. How do you feel when someone calls you a “dear friend” or lets you know that you are a “loved one?”

2. Why is it important for us to show care, tenderness, compassion, and affection to others—especially those in stress?

3. How do you think persecutions and sufferings have a reason and a purpose? How do they refine and purify us? How do they help us become more real, helpful, and relevant to others?

5. How do sufferings act as a warning, as a sign to get right with God? Have you seen this in your life? How so? When this happens, what should you do?

6. Do you know that bad times are coming? How do you feel about it? Why should we not be surprised or lament about it? What can you do to get ready for it and learn to grow from it?

7. Peter once scoffed at the idea that Christ or he would suffer. What do you think took place to change him? How does his growth help motivate you?

8. Many Christians fret or become obsessed about the End Times. How do you feel about it? Have you considered that the point is not if we are in them or when they will come, but how we are with character and faithfulness when they do come?

9. Knowing that suffering can persuade you to doubt God's love and plan for you, what can you do to take heed?

10. Have you seen Christians who have gone through suffering become better and more passionate witnesses for Christ? How so?

11. What does it mean to have staying power in suffering? How could you grow with more trust in Him? Do you recognize that you are exalted in Him? Can you see that it does not matter what else we have or have not? How does this help you?

12. What does it mean to take comfort in Christ when times are hard? How can you make this more so? How can the fact that when you are faithful, your sufferings glorify Christ and show Him and His Majesty to others, give you further resolve and comfort?

In this world you will have trouble but take heart! I have overcome the world (John 16:33)

General idea: We are called to follow the Good Shepherd in order to be a good shepherd! Peter is addressing those in church leadership who had the same problems we have today. Thus, he extols them to clue themselves into Christ and follow His example--to care and pastor others with excellence and fortitude. Peter does not ask them to do something that he has not done; rather, he uses himself as an example and points them to the Ultimate Example.

The Church has always been riddled with strife and conflict, because our fallen nature causes us to fight with one another using the ways of the world, while the devil also uses us for his means. When we do this, we forget who Christ is, and we forget what the Church is here to do--to know Him and make Him known. We leaders can easily be tempted to chase what is not godly. So, when we are not following the Good Shepherd, we are not being a good shepherd. We will then get our lead from our desires; consequently, we will seek means to get what we want and not what God has called us to. Then, wham! The sheep are in conflict and strife because the shepherd is leading them astray.

Another way we can cause dysfunction in the Church is to “lord it over” people by micro-managing them, and seeking to belittle, exploit, and manipulate while we are clearly called to lead by the example of our Lord. We must see leadership as helping people draw near to Christ as we eagerly seek to know Him better ourselves so we can be a good example. The fruit of this will be a sense of a willingness, of humbleness, unselfish servitude, and encouragement by discipleship (Matt. 20:20-28; Luke 22:26; Gal. 5:19-26). All with the goal that we will share His glory in eternity!

Vs. 1: From the context of this chapter, we are urged to have the attitude of Christ! We are called to live in the Spirit! We need to see what He has done for us: He brings us to God, He makes us alive, He cleanses us, and He is our continual Example! Therefore, we do not need to waste any more of our life with evil deeds or have evil desires. This will translate into our conduct and our prayers (as these will become more serious), as well as our fervent love for one another (John 16:33).

1 Elders generally refers to those who are older and wiser in life, those able to share wisdom and advice. This was also a specific title for community leaders who ruled their provinces and/or who were judges. These people held great respect and responsibilities in their communities (Acts 20:17; 1 Tim. 3:1; 5:17; 2 John 1; 3 John 1).

2 Fellow elder. Peters is assuring his solidarity that as an Apostle, he is not above them in exercising God’s love. He will not ask them to do what He has not done himself. This was to encourage and identify with them in the midst of sufferings and discord.

3 Witness of Christ's sufferings. Peter is reminding them of his ties and personal ministry with Jesus and all the wonders he witnessed (Matt. 16:27; 17:8; 26:58; Mark 14:54; Luke 22:60-62; John 1:14; 2:11; 18:10-11, 15-16; Acts 1:8; 1 Pet. 2:21-24).

4 If we are claiming Christ as Lord, we need to be living the life--not just talking about it or just showing up for the club meetings (church)!

I urge you to seek God’s Will by recognizing God’s love for you. In that way, you will be able to apply biblical principles to help you become a much better leader. Additionally, if you are already a leader, you can use the principles of His Word to spruce up your attitude so your character becomes good in action. You can take a look at what you have done wrong, and then correct it by removing your false thinking and realigning your behaviors.

Vs. 2-4: Conflicts have buffeted the early church and Peter is seeking to restore them to a proper perspective and call. The leaders were also experiencing the first waves of persecution and were the ones being tortured and imprisoned. The call is simple, yet so not followed in most churches! The call for us is to exercise watch and care over God’s people, to encourage and shepherd them in a godly direction from a godly example. Leadership is never about what we get out of it or a force of our will; rather, it is about the mobilization of His precepts from His Word in our life so it flows and it is “happening” onto theirs! We will have an eagerness to know Him more powerfully so we can serve with more humility.

1 Shepherds is a term that had great depth and meaning for an agrarian society. Sheep and shepherd are often-used words in Scripture; they denote a concerned guide who describes God, the church, and His people (Eza. 34: 1-10; Luke 15:3-7; John 10:1-18; 21:15-17; 1 Pet. 2:25). A shepherd does not lead by being harsh or the sheep will refuse to go with him, and perhaps will even die. Rather, he leads and guides them in the right direction with gentleness; then the sheep will follow him. The sheep do this out of a need to be protected, to be led to food and water that they cannot find on their own. Humans are to lead others to the percepts of His Word and character. We are to lead by being a shepherd.

2 Overseers refers to and implies the leaders of the leaders, such as bishops (Acts 20:17, 28; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1-2; Titus 1:5-7). This word however, also applies to all those who are supervising others such as elders, pastors, or anyone in any leadership capacity. We are all to carry out the principles of these offices.

3 Not by compulsion/not because you must. Many Greek philosophers and teachers and some Jewish leaders were very strict and controlling; this created a negative, non-enriching atmosphere that led to discord and strife. Real leaders are real examples that exemplify true virtue (Matt. 16:24-27; Mark 10:42-45; Philp. 2:6-11; 2 Thess. 3:9)!

4 Greedy refers to the breaching of trust with others--catering solely to our personal needs; in so doing, we usurp God's will in favor of ours, for manipulating others. Leading is never by compulsion; rather, it comes from a willing heart. This is not about pastors not needing to get paid, as fair compensation is biblical; any worker is worth a decent wage. It is about how dishonesty devalues the Kingdom (1 Cor. 9:9-14; Gal. 6:6; 1 Tim. 5:17-18).

5 Lording over means haughtiness, arrogance (which is to abuse one's power), to be controlling, not leading by example, to “lord over” and not encourage, to micro-manage, to not serve. Humbleness is essential in leadership (Job 41:34; Psalm 10:5; 18:27; 101:5; 131:1; 6:17; Prov. 16:18; 21:4; 30:13)!

6 Be examples means to show others and influence them--not just tell them. We are to shepherd the flock of Christ with wise conduct through the exercising of humility and the demonstration of wisdom. The light we use to guide others needs to be His Light--not ours. Our light is pride versus the Light we are to follow, which is Christ (Mark 10:42-45; John 13:1-17; Phil. 2:5-11; 1 Tim. 4:12). As leaders, we are responsible to care for God’s people with faithfulness and honor, and never out of severity or improper motivations (Matt. 23)!

7 Chief Shepherd means a shepherd who is over other shepherds. This is a name for Christ, and refers to how he cares for and gently guides us. He, as God, serves as our prime example, the One to whom we are responsible for the people he has entrusted to us. We can trust Christ to lead us (John 10:11; 1 Pet. 2:25).

8 Appears is a reference to Christ's return, and that He will reward those who have served with distinction and judge those who led people astray. We can look to the return of Christ for our hope!

9 Crown of glory was not like the gold medals we have today, but still were praised for their significance. They were bound olive leaves, formed as a garland, and given to sporting and soldier victors. These were perishable; our reward is never ending and will not perish!

If you are in leadership, then be a good leader! Our attitude and behaviors will be closely watched and mimicked! We are the ones who will encourage others to seek and know Him more, or distract them away from the Church and our Lord. We must be growing in the faith with conviction and fortitude so we will have good motives. Good motives are essential to good leadership; otherwise, all you have are power plays, strife, and dysfunction! Churches that have problems, for the most part (in my experience), are mainly because the leadership has forgotten who Christ is in their personal lives, and they do not practice His precepts. They are not willing to be good followers and therefore end up leading the people with personal agendas and trends. Christ is left out of the loop (1 Kings 3:9; Luke 22:25-28; Matthew 25:21; Mark 9:33-37; John 5:19; Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:1-5; 2 Timothy 2:24; Hebrews 13:17)!

Leadership embodies the fruit and character of our Lord. It must be Christ-directed in a godly, purposeful direction. It requires being a servant before attempting to direct others. The leadership for the Church must come from the Jesus model, not the business model! It is never a force of personality; it is earning that respect because of your love and care. It must come from Him, disseminating through our personal disciplines of growing in Him by faith and His Word, and modeled from good mentorship. This will mean we serve unselfishly so we influence, equip, and empower people to accomplish God's purpose and plan. Disintegrating or bad leadership is more destructive to a local church than a legion of demons, as it corrupts godly principles and displays a skewed understanding of our call to follow Christ. It seeks its own, and not the Word.

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Have you ever led a group that was unruly or uncooperative with you? How did you feel? What did you do?

2. What does it mean to have the attitude of Christ? What would your church look like if the pastors and leaders did this to the best means possible?

3. How would you define church leadership problems? Have you experienced them? How so? What was done? What should have been done?

4. Does it make you feel secure, distressed, or…, that church leadership has faced the same problems and been riddled with strife and conflict all though its history?

5. What does it mean for a leader to follow the example of Christ? How would this translate into better care and pastoring? How would excellence and fortitude be shown? What would your church look like if this were true of her leaders?

6. What happens when leaders do not follow Christ (when we forget who Christ is and what the Church is here to do)? What would your church look like if this were true?

7. Have you experienced or seen leaders easily tempted to chase what is not godly? How so? What was done about it? What should have been done? How can we guard against bad motivations and false thinking?

8. Do you firmly believe that by following the Good Shepherd, we can be good shepherds? If so, then why does it seem most Christians forget this?

9. What would it take for the leadership in your church to be helping people draw near to Christ and desiring with eagerness to know Him better and make Him known? What would your church look like if this were so?

10. Why is it important for leaders to be good examples? What happens when we get our lead from our own interests and personal motivations?

11. How does the goal that we will share His glory in eternity help facilitate better leadership? What about living in the Spirit? Allowing Him to cleanse us? The application of fervent love for one another? What would your church look like if all these were applied? What are you going to do about it?

12. What can be done to effectively apply, by example, a sense of willingness to be humble with unselfish servitude? What do you need for this to happen in your life? How do encouragement and discipleship apply? What are some of the false thoughts that need to be removed? What behaviors need realigning?

If we are claiming Christ as Lord, we need to be living the life--not just talking about it!

General idea: Peter is calling the church (and us) to be mature and faithful which requires us to submit and to be humble. The result is respect, cooperation, unity, community, and the power of His Fruit at work. But, if we do not submit, have disregard for unity, or have no respect for authority, our sinful nature will win out; the result will be quarrels (because of pride), discord, and shame. We have to see that God wants us to submit; this is best for us both individually and collectively as a church. Being a Christian and a church is about relying on Him, not ourselves; it is about His mighty power at work in us--not our feeble ways! His favor and power will be poured out on us when we are faithful, obedient, and meek (strength under control). Nevertheless, be warned that pride is the opposite of these, and that it will destroy relationships and churches fast and furiously; that is why God hates it so much! Thus, to be confident in Jesus and be used by Him, we need Him to empower us. With this mindset and empowering, we do not need to worry or fret because our mind is not on our status, situations, possessions, or experiences, but on Christ! This comes about when we realize that Jesus does indeed care, and loves us ever so deeply!

The second aspect of this passage is about spiritual warfare. The devil gets a hold on us when we are not complying with the previous precepts! He will attack to discourage and sway us away from God and His ways. Our defense is simple; we are to stand firm in Christ, pray, and allow His work in us and not ours; what we would bring to the table is just fuel for the devil and his ways!

Vs. 5-7: Peter seeks to comfort his congregation that is experiencing great trouble, suffering, and being manipulated by friends, family, and society. This was causing them to be scattered and persecuted. So, he brings them back to the fundamentals, the basic attitudes of spiritual growth and maturity. The building blocks for spiritual maturity must be grasped and implemented by every one who claims Jesus as Lord; the foundational block is an attitude of submission and humility. This will greatly affect how we think which influences who we are and what we do. It is all about centering ourselves to the root of the problem; our motives will direct our actions.

1 Young men be submissive. The Greek is "hupotasso" which means to line up under. It is a military term that means to “get in line” under the leadership of those who are more mature.

2 Those who are older, as in verse one. The term “elder” refers to church officers. To submit to elders means to give the church officials respect, but it actually applies to all (1 Tim. 5:1). Respect for elders was considered very important in Judaism, as those with more experience in life were considered to have more knowledge and wisdom; the younger people should learn from them and take heed. In practice this means having the elders speak first and younger people listen. It is about the attitude of submission, because young people are inclined to be aggressive and enamored with their own will and ideas, and thus tend to be stubborn and ignore older, wiser people.

3 Clothe yourselves. "Enkomboomai" literally means to cover something on yourself with something like a work apron. It refers to the apron that a slave would put on over his clothes to keep them clean. It means to submit to one another by putting on humble service just as Jesus did in John 13:1-18!

4 Humility means our correct understanding of who we are in Christ and how we are to go before God. This does not mean we are to hate ourselves; rather, it means to have a right respect and relationship with God (Prov. 3:5). Our attitude toward God will greatly affect our attitude in how we communicate and how we act. These will be revealed by the motives of our heart. We learn humility by the spiritual disciplines of being in His Word, and practice--before God--our dependence on Him, seeking of His will, and being in prayer. Our motivation is to be the realization that we are saved by grace, and kept by His love (1 Kings 8:58; Psalm 25; Mark 1:7; Luke 9:23; 18:9-14; 22:27; Romans 12:3; Eph. 4:1-3; Col. 1:18; Phil. 2:8; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:3-5).

5 Humble yourselves… God opposes the proud, is a quote from Proverbs 3:34, and refers to the irrationality of foolish people who do not use wisdom, but choose rather to seek folly and thus bring adversity upon themselves. This also is refers to submitting to the sovereignty of God (Proverbs 1:24-33; 6:16; 8:13, Isaiah 57:15; 66:2; Micah 6:8). We remove our pride by “clinging” to the cross, confessing our sins, and seeking forgiveness from God and others whom we have offended. Our discipline in the faith will help strengthen our walk as we continue to grow in Him.

6 He will lift you up. God alone deserves the right to be exalted and honored. God is the only One to exalt us! This is an essential attitude we must take before effective Christian character, maturity, or spiritual growth can be possible. God’s plan for our life is far better than any desire--evil or good--we could ever have. His promise is relief from persecutions, either in this life or our life to come. The application is to trust Christ, to keep praying, and trust in our Lord, knowing that His love for us is real and true. God is merciful and is moved by our struggles; He does care (Ex. 2:23-25; 3:7-9; Jug. 2:18; 10:16; Psalm 107:9; Prov. 3:34; Isa. 2:11-12, 17; Ezek. 17:24; 21:26; Luke 1:52-53).Thus, it is logical and beneficial to be humble in Him (2 Chron. 7:14-15; Prov. 3:34; 25:6-7; Isa. 2:11-12; 5:15; Matt. Mt 18:4; 23:12 Luke 11:43; 14:11; 18:14; 20:46; 1 Pet. 5:62)!

7 God's mighty hand means God's covering power, God's controlling power, and God's sovereignty; God is in charge. The mighty hand of God is the loving, caring hand of God in charge of us. It can be a shelter, a deliverance, a testing, or a chastening. God's mighty hand is always His best love for us so we become our best for His glory (Duet 26:8; Phil 4:13)! So do not debate with God; humble yourself under His will, under His Word, and under His power.

8 Humility is mutual. When we are faithful and humble to God and to others, it builds our character and community. This parallels James 4:6-10. James puts the emphasis on poverty and oppression while Peter’s emphasis is on our being disillusioned from persecution and subsequently falling away from God.

9 Cast all your anxiety/your cares to Him. Being humble denotes being active in our faith and trusting in Him, so we trust God to direct our lives. When He is in control, we need not worry. Life is not about our circumstances; rather, it is about how we learn and grow in Him by our trust, faith, and obedience! It also means being repentant of one‘s behaviors and attitudes; but, furthermore, it means that being totally dependant upon God produces a better attitude that creates better actions.

We are to accept His mighty hand; then, we will be lifted up. We are to endure the pain and difficulties that life brings, for He will lift us up. We are to endure the trouble and trials, for He will lift us up. We should never think that our circumstances are too difficult; rather, we should seek to cast our anxiety on Him because we have the confidence that He does care for us. Take heed; God will not lift us up until we are ready for it. Our grace came after the cross. Our crown comes after the cross. Suffering comes before glory.

Vs. 8-9: God is totally sovereign and Satan can do nothing to us other that what God allows. However, he still has power and has not been tamed yet. Consider that your will is the door through which he comes prowling and attacking; why give him an open door! Satan is still our adversary; he wants to not only take you away from God‘s love and precepts, he wants to utterly destroy you! Peter’s point? Be on your guard and resist him; do not let Satan have that open door--as Peter has personally experienced (Luke 22:31-34; Eph. 6:10-20)!

1 Be self-controlled means allowing God to be in control of our will and heart and seeking the Spirit to enable us. Then, we will know what not to do and be able to guard the areas in which we are weak. This will allow us to have discipline and restraint as we are obedient to God and others. It means not allowing distractions to derail or remove us from His will and plan; that way, we will not be held back from what Christ called us to do (Prov. 16:32; 25:28; Rom 13:12-14; 1 Cor. 6:12; 9:25-27; 1Thess. 5: 22; Titus 2:12; Heb. 12:2).

2 Your enemy, the devil/Satan means “the slanderer,” and “our adversary.” His name here refers to being the accuser or the prosecutor (Job 1:6-12; 2:12; Zac. 3:1-2; Rev. 12: 9-10). Peter says Satan is seeking to accuse us of wrong so he can blind us to God’s love and grace. He twists our mindsets to be ashamed or seek apostasy (because we think God does not care), or into not taking our faith seriously.

3 Roaring lion was the most feared animal at that time, striking absolute fear into the people who had no real defense against them (Psalm 7:2; 10:9-10; 22:13). This refers to Satan’s power and destructiveness. It was also a colloquialism meaning someone who is out to get you or an enemy of God. At this time, Nero was starting to use Christians as entertainment by having them fed to lions.

4 Resist him/ the devil. This means to beware of the Devil and resist him, to be sober and vigilant (as in alert) of Satan’s tactics and influences, to flee the Devil’s kingdom, his values, and his wisdom, and embrace God’s kingdom, values, and wisdom. This has more to do with moral values than spiritual warfare. The devil does not have equal authority or power as the popular “Ying/Yang” philosophy states; rather, he only has the power we give to Him. God has absolute power. The devil is not invincible; he is easily thwarted. We put on God’s armor so we can fight his temptations and flee from him; we evade the lusts of our heart and world by running from it, not toward it (Eph. 6:11-18; James. 3:15, 17; 4:4, 7-10)!

5 Your brothers means we are all the body of Christ, in community with one another and in unity by Christ and His work. Therefore, we are never alone, away from God, or away from one another (unless you isolate yourself).

Humbleness and submission help us to be accountable and to honestly assess our actions and performance. This attitude of humility is a parallel to an attitude of submission. Submission attacks self-promoting posturing and pride; the attitude of humility attacks and nullifies the self-love mentality that causes pride. Humility minimizes arrogance and removes pride. It is the misunderstanding of our fallen nature and weaknesses that causes us to think we are better than we are, and that causes us to strive to lift ourselves above others and God. Humility admits that, most importantly God, but also others are responsible for our achievements. Humbleness enables us to be a teachable person who is willing to have a good attitude of submission and servant-hood, a person who confesses sin and remembers how Christ served us! Humility is not self-hatred or having a “poor me” attitude. In contrast, arrogance lifts our self-interests and self-sufficiencies, which seem necessary and good. However, when we are self-sufficient, we not only fail to see our need for redemption, but also fail to see our need for growth in spiritual matters. Therefore, self becomes the god, and any work of the One True God is muted and put aside.

If you are looking for a solution to your problems, then search no more. If you feel life is overwhelming you, seek your comfort in Him. He does care for you! Receive His care, receive His love, and surrender your doubts, your frustrations, your concerns, and your frailty. Trust in God's love in all of your circumstances. Allow Him to be your inward peace and contentment! We are to have an attitude of accepting whatever God provides, and being happy with it. We are not to seek self-gratification or temporary happiness in the shallow things of life. The fruit of anxiety is discontent, distrust, selfishness, unhappiness, and stress, as the focus becomes your situation, and not who you are in Christ. Being discontented will prevent the work of God in your heart and your will (Proverbs 16:9; 19:21; Romans 9:19-21; Philippians. 4: 10-13; 1Timothy 6:6-9; Hebrews 13: 5).

So cast you anxiety, fears, trepidations, stress, and difficulties… upon Him! All of our cares are to be surrendered to our Lord. Not some, not a little, not almost all; all, but all of our cares--all that we have held in the past, the present, and will be in the future.

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. What do you do when you are anxious, worried or stressed? What should you do? How does this passage help you?

2. What does it mean to you to be mature and faithful? What do you think is required to submit and to be humble?

3. How does humbleness promote respect, cooperation, unity, and community? Consider your work, school, family, and church! Why does God honor these? Why would Christians--especially those in leadership--not want to use these foundational building stones of submission and humility?

4. What blocks humility from working and being exhibited in you? How does humility give God the “power line” to empower you with His Fruit? What would your life and church look like with these percepts at work?

5. What happens when we do not submit, we have disregard for unity, or no respect for authority? How does this collectively affect a church?

6. Why do you suppose that His favor and power will be poured out on us when we are faithful, obedient, and meek? How does being confident in Jesus help you in this?

7. Do you worry? Why? Why do you not need to worry or fret? What happens when your mind is on your status, situation, possessions, or experiences and not on Christ?

8. What will happen to your spiritual life and relationships when you realize that Jesus does indeed care and love you ever so deeply?

9. How does the devil get a hold on you? How does he discourage or sway you away from God and His ways? How does he twist your mindset? How can you form a defense to him?

10. How do the foundational blocks of attitude, of submission, and of humility help prepare you for life and leadership? How do they influence who you are and what you do?

11. Do you realize that your motives will determine your actions as well as your correct understanding of who you are in Christ? So, what can you do to make sure you have good, healthy, biblical motives? What are you going to do about it?

12. What do you need to do to more fully take hold of your dependence on God, seeking His will, and being in prayer? What does it mean to you to cling to the cross? How will confessing your sins and seeking forgiveness from God and others whom you have offended help you? Now, what are you going to do about it?

There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers. Proverbs 6:16-19

General idea: Have you considered how kind God is with us (even when we are in the depths of stress and despair), how His hand is guiding, and how He will restore us for our benefit and His glory? This passage is about the great hope we have because Christ our Lord is our Great Hope! There is no escape from suffering; living in a fallen world, we will, at times, experience pain and despair. The incredible news is that He still cares. Jesus will lift us up out of whatever we are in now or will ever face! And in the meantime, He will give us the strength to endure and even to learn and grow from it. This process will make us better and more mature so we will be a better help to others and more insightful and character-driven ever than before. Our foundation is secure and our standing is firm when we are in Him; we can withstand anything this world throws at us when we are in Him!

Peter’s main mission was to be an encourager to the people who were in distress. How sweet words of encouragement are to those in anguish, and how much more impacting those words are when we know that the person saying them is real and sincere! Peter also offers the assurance that the Gospel is real and is relevant. It is for us now, no matter who we are, where we are, or what we face, Jesus Christ loves us and has a plan for us. God is not far off, unapproachable, detached, or antagonistic. He is here, He is with us now, His love is real and He is totally concerned for us. Peter then closes his epistle to let his people know they are not alone or distanced from God or from others. We are in this world as a community; we are together. The only time we are not is when we cut ourselves off from others; however, we can never cut ourselves off from God!

Vs. 10-11: Jesus is our Promise, Strength, and Validation! God called us to eternal glory, but we must never think of ourselves as equal with God. Rather, we are to humble ourselves, whatever comes into our lives--strife, adversity, goodness, or riches. We are to accept God’s hand. Otherwise, Satan will have his hand upon us!

· The God of all grace means that God is a God who blesses us. Thus, we can have firm faith and confidence in Him for whatever we face. Here, it is referring to Christ’s return; we have hope now, but the ultimate Hope will come, in His time, and He will lift us out of our situation (Isa. 44:6; Jonah 4:2; John 14:27; 20:19; Rom. 5:1-2; Gal. 1:3; Eph. 1:2)!

· Called you here is a doxology, that God has a plan and purpose for us (Rom. 8:1, 28-30; 2 Cor. 4:17; 2 Tim. 2:10)! Consequently, we have an ultimate Hope beyond the hope we can see! The only barrier to this hope is our discouragement, our feelings that result from a lack of faith and spiritual maturity; this impacts all that we are and do in life! Peter, in this context, is calling for an attitude of self-control.

· In Christ refers to how He has freed us from sin, how He suffered for us, and our union in Him, as He dwells in us and represents us before the Father. All that we are, have, or could have comes from Christ. This translates into how we are to treat others (Rom. 6:3-11; 8:9-11, 17; 1 Cor. 6:15-17; 2 Cor. 1:5; 13:3-6; Gal. 3:26-29; 5:24; Phil. 3:10; Col. 1:24; 3:3-4, 11-15)!

To God be the glory and to nothing else! It may not seem that we are in the loop with God's plans and purpose, but we can take comfort in that He is indeed in control. God does not need us to reconcile all the truths, reasonings, and intricacies of theology or understand His dealings with humankind. He only desires that we exercise simple faith and trust in Him. We can praise Him for His glory, even when we are being persecuted and are suffering. The key is to keep our focus on who He is, and not on ourselves or our circumstances .

Vs. 12-14: Closing salutations. In the context of submission and humbleness, the application is for Peter’s audience to realize their dependence upon God so they can accept their situation. We are still to be proactive, but dependence on God removes our frustration, prevents disillusionment, and keeps us centered on what is important in life, which is Christ. We can depend on God’s grace because God will provide a way out--in His time (Job 1-2 ; Psalm 31:9, 15; 62; 103; 119:50; Isa. 26:3; 41:10; Jer. 27:11; Luke 10:20; Rom 8:28-29; 35-37; 12; John 14:1; 1 Cor. 10:31; Phil. 1:6; James 1:2-3; 1 Pet 4:12-19; Rev. 21:4)!

· With the help of Silas. Perhaps Peter (as with Paul, the most educated of all of the Disciples) dictated his letter; here it may mean it was dictated to Silas or that Silas delivered it for him. Silas was Paul’s companion on his second missionary journey (Acts 15:22-29, 40). He was, perhaps, a very educated Roman citizen who could help give endorsement to Peter’s travels. (Acts 16:37). Peter does not go about ministry or live his life alone; even this epistle is a collaboration by others united in Christ and guided by the Spirit to glorify the Father.

· She in Babylon was, perhaps, a cryptogram (codeword) referring to the Christians in Rome. It may also refer to the coming judgment that takes place a few hundred years later.

· Mark refers to John-Mark who was the secretary who dictated the Gospel of Mark. Peter was also a prime author of the book(Acts 12:12, 25; 13:5-13; 15:37-39).

· Kiss of love was a common form of affectionate greeting among those who were close, such as friends and relatives. It is more than just a handshake, but has no sexual connotations to it at all (Luke 15:20; Rom. 6:16; 1 Thess. 5:26).

This passage in First Peter composes the final section of this great epistle. We are given the essential, fundamental postures and exercises for being a spiritually mature Christian, a Christian rooted in the call to be solid in the foundation of our Lord! This is not to be for selfish gain, rather for an attitude of spiritual maturity. If we desire to be close to Christ, walking in the Spirit, spiritually mature and effective, and to be all that God wants us to be, then we will build our lives on what our Lord has done. This does not mean just saying our doctrines and being faithful to our faith and our church; rather, it means being right with Christ and right in our being. It is essential to have correct thinking, be in personal study of His Word, prayer, and devotions, and know the fundamentals of doctrine. So, the result is not just self-gratifying knowledge for us to sit on and ponder, but to know more and be more than a surface imitation of following Christ (1 Cor 11:1). We need to model His character because our whole being is in Christ!

The purpose of this epistle is to make us realize that we have true grace in Christ; this leads us to trust God in all things! It is about who we are in Christ, what He has done, and our response to Him that is rooted not just in our actions but also in the core of self--who we are. Because our core values come from our inner most thoughts and desires, they are a result of how we see ourselves, our world, and most importantly, our God. This translates into how others see us!

Peter’s main theme was submission. Our Lord showed us the way of submission, the way of obedience, and the way for us to live out our lives. If there ever was someone who did not need to submit, it was the Creator of the universe; if there ever was a being who could have gone it alone, without any submission, it was God. Yet, He did submit; do we consider ourselves higher than God? Do we refuse His call and replace it with our fallen self? Real spiritual maturity is being submissive, even though it goes against our culture and our own preferences. This is the essential foundation for healthy growing in the Lord, and for a Christ-centered church!

One of the clearest evidences of being a mature Christian is an increased awareness and knowledge for the need to be in Christ so that our focus is no longer on ourselves. When we have an increased awareness of others that goes beyond self, then we are humble. When we have an awareness that goes beyond our self-confidence, then we are humble. When our confidence is in our Lord, then our self-confidence becomes Christ-confidence. So, our confidence is humbleness, rooted and dependent on Christ who is working through us. The result is that we are not self-driven, but Christ-driven. Thus, we will be in total surrender to God's will as the driving force for our existence.

Spiritual maturity is essential! Nothing is more distressing than a church filled with people who do not have respect for those who are in spiritual authority over them. Conversely, nothing is more discouraging to a congregation than immature and irresponsible spiritual leadership. Many churches go under every year mainly because of pride, arrogance, bitterness, envy, and strife, the opposites of what God calls us to--the opposites of maturity (Phil. 2:5-11).

When we are not focusing on maturity, then we are focusing on self which ends up destroying the Lord's work rather than building His kingdom. We are not perfect. It is a question of spirituality that we are to submit as we are called because Christ did. Without a life approach of submission, we will reveal that our foundation for life is not spiritual maturity; hence we and our churches will be hindered in growth. We cannot be a caring community if we are not submissive and humble in our relationship to God and then to one another (Eph. 5:21; 1 Thess. 5:12)!

God sometimes brings pressure against us to test us, to purge us, to purify us so that we become stronger and are more willing and able to be used to give Him glory. God's goal is not to personally attack and destroy us; rather, He seeks to improve us and to make us our best for His glory. He wants to grow us like an oak, which grows its strongest under harsh conditions. We are to accept and grow from our experiences. The other choice is to become bitter and harsh, ending up as a burden to others and to ourselves. Our Lord will bring us the solution to our problems on His time schedule and for our benefit. We want it done yesterday; He may say tomorrow.

Our Lord gave us the prime example of this in the Garden of Gethsemane. Three times, as it is recorded, Christ asked that the suffering that was to come be stopped; but each time He said to the Father, not my will, but yours be done! Jesus demonstrated the way. Will we not follow (Psalm 88:8-9; 119:50; Matt. 26:36-46)? These things do not come to you by chance; they come by knowing and following Christ (Proverbs 12:4; 28:20; 31:10)!

Remember that people will always disappoint us; we will even disappoint ourselves as well as others. Christ will never disappoint us; He gives us the care, love, and His grace that we do not deserve. Submission is a risk; there is a danger to it because people may take advantage of or lead us astray. However, this can only happen if we take our eyes off our Lord (Psalm 37:5; 55:22; Isa 41:10; John 14:1; Rom 8:28-29; 35-37; James 1:1-5; 3:12; 1 Pet. 4:12-19).

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

6. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. What have you received from this study series? Have any issues really hit you? How have you grown?

2. What does it mean to you that God has a plan and purpose for you? How has this epistle helped reveal that to you?

3. Have you considered how kind God is with you even when you are in the depths of stress and despair? He will restore you for your benefit and His glory. Do you believe this? How so? Why not?

4. What do you suppose it meant to the early church for Peter to identify with and encourage them in the midst of their sufferings and discord?

5. How is knowing that Christ is not just your Lord but also your Great Hope give you the strength to endure the rough times of life?

6. How is knowing that Christ will restore you for your benefit and His glory give you encouragement? Now add to this that He still cares and that He will lift you up, giving you further support and assurance in your daily life? What will this mean to you?

7. What does it mean to you that Christ is your foundation, hope, and conviction? Do you believe that you can withstand anything this world throws at you when you are in Him? How so? Why not?

8. What does hope mean to you? What are the barriers to hope? How do discouragement or feelings impact your hope?

9. How can you take comfort in that He is indeed in control? How does this help you with submission and humbleness? What about preventing disillusionment? How does this translate into how you are to treat others?

10. Real spiritual maturity is being submissive--the essential foundation for a healthy growing church. Why? What can you do to model this in your church? How can your church be more centered upon Christ as Lord rather than on trends or personal ideas?

11. Why should we not go about ministry or our lives alone? How does collaboration with others help us produce better modeling of His character?

12. What needs to take place in your life for you to be more insightful, spiritually and socially mature, and character-driven? What is in the way? What are you going to do about it?

General idea: Peter sends his greetings and blessings with solemn humbleness and intimacy to the people in the faith. He writes his second letter to challenge them to truthful and decent thinking and sends his sincere compliments to those whose faith is real, impacting, and growing. That faith is precious and genuine because it is given to us. We are to take what we are given and then add more to it. We obtain faith then add more faith to it. As a Christian, we have faith to begin with; we are then called to multiply it. Just like the Parable of the Talents (Matt. 25:14-30), we are expected to invest and develop further what is given to us, not for personal gain, but rather to glorify Christ and bring honor and growth to His Church. The key to faith‘s multiplication is answered here¾our knowledge of Christ. The more we know and then subsequently apply to our lives, the more we grow; this is reciprocal. Peter also sends his blessings so that we can take what is given and make of it ever so much more. Cultivated faith in Him produces immeasurable divine blessings!

Christ has given to us all we need in order to grow. We have His Spirit, His Word, His Fruit, and our faith community. This does not even include the countess resources we have in our modern age. He has called us and empowered us, so what more could we expect? The clincher is that we have the responsibility to make it happen. Our faith is in our hands. He gives us the water, the fertilizer, the ground, the air, the “SON,” and the seed. He even plants it! All we have to do is cultivate what He has given. What stands in the way of the cultivation of our faith? Usually, it is not recognizing and taking to heart His promises, which leaves us unsure of what we can do.

Vs. 1-2: Christ has made us right with God. So, how do we live that faith? We can only begin to fathom all the precious privileges and wondrous blessings given to us by Christ. We have the responsibility to act upon them, and for the growth of our faith, character, and maturity.

· Simon Peter, the dedicated true servant. This is Simon (Acts 15:14), whom Jesus changed to Cephas, which means, “Rock” (Matt. 16:18; 1 Cor. 1:12). (See background material for more information.) He was one of Jesus’ first disciples and was a principal leader in the early church (Matt. 15:15; 18:21; Mark 1:26-37; 8:29; 9:5-6; Luke 12:41; John 6:68; Acts 10:18; 15:14; 1 Peter 1:1). Peter was given the special call to be the foundation of the church and to feed the sheep (Mark 1:16-18; 5:37; 9:2; 14:33; John 21:15-19).

· Servant means a slave. Here, it refers to the fact that as a committed follower of Christ, I attest that I belong entirely to Christ. He purchased, restored, and renewed me and He empowers me (1 Cor. 6:19-20; 1 Pet. 1:18-19)! Thus, I will trust and obey Him and follow His precepts!

· Apostle, the word (Apostolos), means emissary, or sent one, as in Jesus’ personally commissioned representatives (Matt. 10:40; 15:24; Mark 6:7-13; 30; 9:37; Luke 9:1-6; 48; John 4:34; 5:24, 30, 36-38; 6:38; 1 Cor. 1:1; 9. 1-2; 2 Cor. 8:23; Gal. 1:1; Col. 1:1; Heb. 3:1). An Apostle had to have been an eyewitness of the resurrection (Acts 1:22; 1 Cor. 15:8); in addition, they governed the early church (1 Cor. 14:37; 1 Thess. 2:13; 4:8, 15; 2 Thess. 3:6, 14; 2 Pet. 3:15-16). In 2 Corinthians, the words, representatives/messengers, are also used for apostle in a broader sense (2 Cor. 1:1; 8:23; Phil. 2:25). This title does not apply today; it is reserved only for the original twelve plus Paul. Today, all Christians are emissaries (2 Cor. 5:20). This role is filled in our day by Elders (Acts 20:28; 1 Cor. 12:7, 11, 28; Eph. 4:11)! Thus, the original Apostles started the church and the Elders today continue to run the church. If someone claims to be an apostle today, they either do not understand the term or are exceptionally full of pride and thus are not of God.

· Righteousness here refers to God being Righteous, thus He is ethical and fair in His dealings with us. Also, in Peter, the word is used to refer to people who are righteous meaning virtuous and of good character (1 Pet. 2:24; 4:18; 2 Pet. 2:5, 21; 3:13). Faith is impartial in its acceptance; it sees no race, creed, culture, time, place, or person, for we are purely justified by His will and purpose, vicariously placed upon us (Rom. 3:22-23; 4:6).

· God and Savior Jesus Christ. This is a strong testament for the divinity of Jesus as fully God and our Savior. This would have been a great offence to both legalistic Jews and pluralistic Greeks as His Name is today (Matt. 1:23; 28:19; Luke 1:35; 5:20-21; John 1:1, 3, 10, 14, 18; 5:18; Rom. 9:5; 1 Cor. 15:45; 2 Cor. 13:4,14; Phil. 2:6; Col. 1:15-20; 2:9; Tit. 2:13; Heb. 1:3, 8; 2 Pet. 1:1; Rev. 1:13-18; 22:13).

· A faith as precious, Received a faith, a faith of equal standing all refer to real faith as subjective to each person‘s experience, and is to be true and valuable. Each person grows at a different rate and depth. It also refers to the body of believers (as in Church) who share in a common belief and practice; there are no different castes or classes for those in Christ! Peter will later combat various false doctrines. He is setting up the theme that there is one faith through Christ, and all are on an equal playing field before Christ. There may be varying levels of growth and maturity, but all are equally accepted (John 20:29; Jude 3; 1 John 3:1-3).

· Grace and peace is a greeting and a blessing, pronouncing God’s special favor (Rom 1:7; 1 Pet. 1:2).

· Abundance/multiplied. We are called to stretch and grow beyond what we think we can do! Peter offers his encouragement for all those who are in Christ to grow in Christ!

· Knowledge means the fundamental saving knowledge we need in order to know whom Christ is before He can be our Savior (Matt. 11:27). This refers to what is true and real and that God can only be known through Christ. It denounces what is esoteric, manipulating, or counterfeit. Peter uses this word as a baseline of truth to attack false doctrine (John 1:18; 2 Pet. 1:2-3, 8; 2:20).

Being a servant of Christ means we surrender all of what we are so He becomes more and we become less (John 3:30; Gal. 2:20-21). We do this because what we gain is so much more; it is peace, serenity, confidence, hope, and, especially, His Fruit that impact us as well as those around us. Peter, through a slow and arduous process, found this to be true. He went from being the arrogant, headstrong, and reckless fisherman to calling himself a slave¾a remarkable picture of Christ’s imputing and impacting work that we can also have.

Vs. 3-4: We are called to partake of His divine nature. He gives us the power to do so, even to overcome temptations and evil. If we do not sidestep corruption and evil, we will become consumed with all that takes us away from Christ and His call to develop and mature our faith! Goodness cannot work when we are distracted away from Him. If we are not living the godly life, but rather are defending our positions from our pride, how can we lead others to Him?

· His divine power. The knowledge of Christ increases our faith and power! This is also to counter Gnostic philosophy that states the soul and body are separate and we can do as we wish with our bodies as long as our hearts remain pure. Our hope is not in what we do; it is in what Christ has done for us!

· Given everything we need/granted to us. We have no excuse not to grow in Him. All that is important and eternal has already been given to us. What is important is what grows our faith and our spiritual formation¾the Holy Spirit, God’s Word, other believers who are mature, and most important, Christ’s work for us!

· Godliness is a synopsis of character that shows our attitude, moral fiber, disposition, and how we treat one another, either good or bad. We are called to virtue; this refers to being pious and living a good, reverent life toward God and others because of what Christ has done in us. This is a response from our worship of Christ with an authentic desire to know Him in a greater way. It creates our desire to be pious, which means to rearrange our priorities, mindsets, and character to line up with God's character and be able to see the importance of virtue, therefore becoming equipped to use it to value others (Psalm 15; Micah 6:8; Matt. 7:12; Luke 6:31; Eph. 5:1; Col. 3:15-17; 1 Tim. 3:16; 4:8; 6:11; 2 Tim. 3:5; 2 Pet. 1:3, 6; 3 John 11; Rev 14:6).

· Precious promises/has granted to us. He gives us precious promises. Knowing the promises of God will help us escape the evils of the world. This is a tremendous way to take hold of our trust in Him and grow our faith through our obedience. A Bible Promise book is a necessity! (Many are in our Devotional channel for free)

· Participate/partakers of the divine nature means we partake in Christ. We participate as sons, children of God as we are conformed to the likeness of Christ. We are not made divine through our efforts or His, or purification, and we are not little gods. What this means is we have the image of God in us; we have the Holy Spirit, the Divine Nature living in us guiding, leading, motivating, and fulfilling us (Gen. 3:5; John 1:12; Rom. 8:9-21, 29; 2 Pet. 1:9, 11).

· Escape the corruption of the world. Our sinful nature creates our sinful desires that lure us with passion to what is deceitful and evil. The decay of our standing in Him and of virtue will cause the decay of our selves and our culture. The question is, whose lure are you biting into¾Satan’s or God’s (2 Pet. 2:14; 3:3)?

God has given us the power to live for Him victoriously and with excellence! He feeds us the spiritual food, pays our spiritual debt, and gives us knowledge and the assets to be godly and good. If we truly trust in Christ¾not just as Savior but also as LORD¾we are given the power and ability to live a life of fullness, distinction of character, and spiritual maturity so He is glorified by our lives and living testimony. He gives us the resources. They are here for us, and are at our disposal. We are not alone or cut off from what we need! But, there is a catch. We have to go for it; we have to appropriate His gifts and opportunities into our lives, as in finding and engaging them. We take firm hold of our faith (make our election sure) when we trust and then obey what He has for us. If we do not, we live a life of waste and even sin, missing out what is soooo good and precious for us. Why would anyone forsake His love and gifts (Deut. 31:6; Phil. 2:13; 3:13-14; 4:13)?

There is a second aspect to receiving and applying His power into our lives. We have the responsibility to practice it. We are not great at it at the start. Just like learning to drive or play a game, it takes time to master, no matter how talented we may be. We have to work at it by learning, absorbing, and then applying what we have learned. In using it, we grow and mature. The price is not too high since Christ paid for it. We have no excuse not to grow and serve Him! Never consider that it is too difficult or that you are not gifted or worthy enough, because the Spirit in you is able to do it (Psalm 87:7; Isaiah 40:29-31; John 14:13-14; 2 Cor. 9:8; Col. 3:23)!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. How do you feel when someone talks or writes to you with humbleness and intimacy? How do you suppose Peter’s people felt?

3. What difference would it make in your spiritual growth if you were to realize that your faith and what God has given you in gifts and opportunities are precious and to be genuine?

4. What do you think the key is to the multiplication of your faith? What can you do to recognize God’s wonderful provisions for you?

5. Whose lure are you biting into¾Satan’s or God’s? How does knowing the promises of God help you escape the evils of the world?

6. How can you be encouraged by the fact that Christ has given to you all you need to grow, as well as the assurance and confidence to pursue Him more?

7. Take an opportunity to recount the wonders that God has given and done for you over time. How can what He has done in the past help empower you to become more vigorous and faithful now?

8. What will it take for you to be a more committed follower of Christ? How does the fact that you belong entirely to Him because He purchased, restored, renewed, and empowered you help you take this call further?

9. God is Righteous. He is ethical and fair in His dealings with us. What can you do to show Him gratitude as you live your life with virtue and good character?

10. There are some so-called “Christian” groups that proclaim prejudice as being from God. How does this thinking match up with this passage or the veracity of Scripture? Faith is impartial, so how can you be better in your treatment of others who are different from you?

11. We are called to stretch and grow beyond what we think we can do! What would this mean to you? How can you apply His power? Remember, more knowledge of Christ increases faith and power.

12. What stands in the way of your faith cultivation, the taking a firm hold on your faith? What do you consider your responsibility to be in cultivating what He has given to make your faith grow better and faster? What specifically needs cultivating? What can others do to help you? What are you going to do about it?

General idea: The authentic knowledge of Christ that is revealed to us is the foundation of our faith. We are being directly called to make every conceivable effort to put into practice our faith and the Fruit that is given and is at our disposal to use. Our faith is the benefit we have as Christians, just like working for a company and having health and life insurance, a retirement account, and various other benefits. Employers are not always obligated to do so, but in order to make a healthier and more productive work environment, they do. The employees are responsible to sign up and use the benefits. If they do not, those benefits will not be available for use. Their use is not mandatory, but needed and necessary for life. The parallels are similar with what God has given us. He is not obligated to give to us out of His love and grace, but He does so because of that love and grace.

We are called to know Christ better and to practice moral excellence. But before moral excellence can happen, our hearts and minds must be lined up with God; and before we can do this, we have to know Him. Character and Fruit are only exhibited when we are communing with Him¾not when we are negating or neglecting Him. The more we know God, the more we know His call, and the more we will have the desire and ability to grow in and apply it. Then we grow more in character, as the knowing and practicing also helps us to be built up in Christ. But, beware when we are myopic in our outlook on life; not seeing Christ or applying Him in our lives will cause us to fail at what is important, which is virtue and character!

Vs. 5-8: The order of the Fruits here is not comprehensive or in a sequential order like in Galatians where each one is a stage that begets the next one. Rather, here it is arranged in rhetorical “sorites,” a type of argument that uses syllogisms to build to the climax of love. Each end is a “bookend” that holds the others; faith is what we all start with. It is the foundation. Then others build to the preeminent essential significance of what love is, the quintessential fruit of the Christian life.

· Add to/supplement. This is referring to fruit, which is what we are given when we grow in Him, what we add to, and what He then multiplies (Rom. 5:1-5; 1 Cor. 13).

· Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Heb. 11:1). Christ is what we hope for; Christ is what is to be seen! Faith is the promise of God that gives us the hope and confidence so we can receive, act on, obey, and trust God’s promises, because God is sovereign and trustworthy. We can trust God for the future because we can see what He has done in the past¾from creation, to testimonies, to His infallible Word (Rom. 10:17; Gal. 3:1-14; Heb. 2:4; 11: 1-6; 12:2; James 1:2-4; 2:14-26).

· Goodness/ virtue refers to moral excellence, the engagement of love, and doing the right thing. Virtue is the application of being good from both the conscious will to do what is right and from personal responsibility. It encompasses integrity, honesty, compassion, and endearment and this is the quintessence of what biblical Character (that is right standards, strength, courage, modesty, and purity all done in excellence) is to be. We acquire Virtue by our faith, our obedience to Christ, being persistent in Him, and clothing ourselves in Him. This is what results when we truly repent; we will represent the nobility that we have in Christ (Amos 5:15; Psalm 103:17; 131; Prov. 8:13; 25:22; Matthew 7:12; 19:16; Luke 6:27, 35; Rom. 12:17; 2 Cor. 5:20; Eph. 5:8-9; Col. 3:12-17; Phil. 2:14-18; 4:8; 1Timothy 4:12; 5:22; Tit.1: 15; Heb.10: 5-10; 1 Pet. 3:11; 2 Pet. 1:3-8; 2:9).

· Knowledge here refers to knowing the salvation we have in Christ because we have a personal relationship with Him. The Christian message, if it is real in our lives, will affect our attitudes and lifestyle (Luke 11:42; 18:10-14; John 14:1-6; Eph. 2:8-9).

· Self-control is allowing God to be in control of our will and heart, and seeking the Spirit to enable us. Then we will know what not to do and guard the areas in which we are weak. This will allow us to have discipline and restraint with obedience to God and others. It is refusing to let distractions derail or remove us from His will and plan so we will not be held back with what Christ called us to do (Prov. 16:32; 25:28; Rom 13:12-14; I Cor. 6:12; 9:25-27; 1Thess. 5: 22; Titus 2:12; Heb. 12:2; 2 Pet. 1:5-7).

· Perseverance is having confidence in God so we trust Him in difficult situations and still see His grace and love. We can do this by being encouraging with Christ-like temperament (2 Chron. 32:1-8; Esther 7; Luke 16:22-31; 18:9; Acts 19:8-10; 26:19-23; Rom. 15:14-16; Phil. 1:6; 12-14, 25; 2 Tim. 2:25).

· Godliness means living out our disposition with respect and reverence to Christ in all aspects of our life. This is rearranging our priorities, mindsets, and character to line up with God's character, and to be able to see the importance of virtue then be equipped to use it to value others. Godliness is a collection of personality traits within our personality that show our attitude, moral fiber, and how we treat one another¾good or bad¾which is what Character is about. This results from being pious and living a good, reverent life toward God and others because of what Christ has done in us (Psalm 15; Micah 6:8; Matt. 7:12; Luke 6:31; Eph. 5:1; Col. 3:15-17; 1 Tim. 3:16; 4:8; 6:11; 2 Tim. 2:22; 3:5; 2 Pet. 1:3, 6; 3 John 11; Rev 14:6).

· Brotherly kindness/Brotherly affection means love for a brother or friend (in the Greek, Philadelphia). It is a call to treat others as family because we are all in God’s family (Rom. 12:10; Heb. 13:1).

· Love is the turning of our backs to our self-concerns, and facing God and our neighbors. It will enable us to appreciate others in the Lord. Love desires to seek and apply what God has to say. When you have the wrong idea and definition of love, it will adversely impose on all those areas in your life. Understanding what love is not is as important as understanding what love is not. God's love must be our model for life. It must flow into us from Christ, and in return flow out from us to those around us (John 13:1; 15:13; 1 Cor. 13; Col. 3:12-17; 1 Thess. 4:9-10; 5:8-13; 1 John)!

· Possess these qualities. The Greeks believed that the knowledge of something was what was important, not the practice of it. Here we are called to not just know but also to do.

· Ineffective/…unproductive. This means we are being called on to be productive and useful in the Kingdom as well as the community. If not, we are in disobedience and ignoring His love and gifts for us. Why would a Christian not want to be productive for the Kingdom (Phil. 4:8-9)?

We have privileges and responsibilities in Him. God has given us gifts, abilities, and promises that we are not to store when needed. When they are needed, they are for us to persistently use! Such benefits given will not only benefit us in our intimate relationship to Christ, but also empower and build much heartier relationships with others, too.

Vs. 9-11: We are called to grow in Him! Why? Because when we receive a faith and salvation that we do not deserve or earn, we consequently respond with gratitude for what He has given, and we will even desire more. But to be so, we need Christ’s empowerment. This will come from knowing Him, growing in Him, and then having the desire for more.

· Does not have them/lacks these qualities refers to not exercising our faith perhaps not even having saving faith. If there is no fruit from a person claiming to be a Christian, the odds are he or she is not one, but rather is a pretender (1 Pet. 4: 1-11).

· Nearsighted/…blind. This refers to having faulty vision. You do not “squint” to see better, or for us today, use no glasses to see better. This can also mean to have good sight and yet refuse to use it, or only see what we want to see as in myopic. This is a failure on our part to either utilize His call or seek to understand and apply His precepts (Isa. 42:19; John 9:39-41; 2 Cor. 4:4).

· Cleansed is a Jewish depiction of being purified by getting rid of moral corruption and anything else that defiles us before God. For us, it means staying in our sinful ways or “the flesh” and ignoring our new life and responsibility (2 Pet. 2:20).

· Make your calling/ election sure. God calls us. We do not call on Him for our salvation. We receive it only as an act of undeserving grace that we cannot get on our own by merit or birthright. Now that we are transformed, we are called to show it and grow in it (Rom. 12). The Spirit gives us testimony and empowers ours; we are then to persevere in our faith. This is our assurance of salvation; what we have done with what He has given is the evidence of who we are in Christ (Gal. 4:6; Eph. 1:4-6; 2 Tim. 2:19; 1 John 3:10-14).

· If you do these things refers to practicing what God gives, as God gives us salvation and eternal life that we continue in. Doing our Christian life is not sitting and doing nothing or only what we can get away with. Practice preserves and grows our faith and then produces fruit, character, and virtue (Matt. 10:22; 24:12-13; Gal. 5:6, 22-23; Phil. 2:12-13; Heb. 3:6).

There is a stern warning here for all of us! We have a responsibility to pursue our faith development and do a good disposition of modeling Christ (2 Cor. 5:20)! If we ignore our call to pursue our spiritual growth thus not developing our virtue and character, we will face life without God’s empowerment and benefits. When we have forsaken Him, He does not forsake us; nevertheless, because we did not take a hold of the benefits He gives, they will not be in our arsenal or developed enough to be of much use in dealing with life. Our shortsightedness and refusal to be prepared results from taking our eyes off Christ and placing them on our circumstances and stresses, thus making us empty and bankrupt to deal with those circumstances! Do not let this myopic thinking happen to you!

We are called to emulate Christian virtues! We are also duty-bound to be diligent to take and receive them, not for our salvation but to grow in life and ministry. These benefits, which are the Fruits of the Spirit, God’s love and working in us, need to be known and then applied to be effective and real to us and those around us. If we know them and then do nothing with them, they are as useless as having health insurance but when you are sick not using it. The same is true with trying to apply a Fruit without understanding what it is and how it is to be used. We would be having an imitation or a skewed and perhaps even rotten fruit as His marvelous fruit goes unnoticed and unused. It is like never filling out the forms and starting the benefits. Not knowing God’s precepts means we will not be able to apply, because what we may be applying is not of Him!

Do not be shortsighted concerning your faith and the opportunities Christ has and will still bring. If we do not have a desire to pursue the will of God, we have to ask ourselves why and what is in the way. Most, if not all of the time, it is the desire of sin that blocks us. Sometimes we may not recognize sin and perhaps rationalize it away. This happens especially when it is dumbed down and shown as OK in the media and entertainment, which are at our disposal. Our election is proven by our obedience and growth in Christ!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Why are called to grow in Him? Why do so many Christians see their faith as “on hold” until when it may be needed, and/or doing nothing or just what they can get away with?

2. What have you received from Christ that drives your life? What is in the way? What are you going to do about it?

3. What does it mean to you to make every conceivable effort to put into practice your faith and fruit? How is this necessary for your life?

4. How would you describe moral excellence? Can you give an example of it? Is it something that just happened? Why, or why not? What must happen for character and fruit to be exhibited?

5. What does it take for you to have a greater desire and ability to grow, practice, and apply your faith?

6. What happens when we are myopic in our outlook on life? How will neglecting our faith and Lord cause us to fail at what is important? How have you seen this?

7. Why is love the essential, quintessential fruit of the Christian life? How would you define it? How do you know when it is real?

8. What does it mean that God supplements and multiplies our faith? How has He done this in you? How can He do this more in you?

9. How do we acquire Virtue and Character? How does repentance play a part? Do you realize that we all have privileges and responsibilities in Christ? What are yours? What are you going to do about the abilities and promises He has for you?

10. Has shortsightedness or a refusal to be prepared affected you in any area of your life? What can you do to make sure you do not become shortsighted?

11. How does the practice of Character build much heartier relationships with others? Can you think of a specific area in your life where one of the virtues that are listed needs to be more manifested? If so, how can you make this so?

12. Take a close look at each of the virtues listed. Which ones are you exhibiting well? Which ones do you lack? What are you going to do about the ones in which you are weak?

General idea: The main theme of Peter’s message is stated here, to pay attention to Christ, not to falsehoods. Have you ever wondered about situations you have faced with faith and confidence in the past but now, somehow you have misplaced that confidence or knowledge? Perhaps you once stood firm in your faith in Christ, but the busyness and stresses of life have distracted you. Or perhaps you have started to believe in teachings that tingle your interests and emotions but are not rooted in Scripture. Peter is seeking to point his people back to what they once knew. He reminds them of the significance and relevance of Christ. He also restates to them his authority as an eyewitness and a personal disciple of Jesus Himself. This reminder is to a church that has slipped from truth to what is new and fleeting. We all need reminders from people in our lives who are mentors and good examples, and we need to be on guard against those who seek to derail us from His Word and Truth.

Peter then shifts his focus to his coming departure from this life. He conveys to us that life is short and we must take the initiative to do what we can here and now with what Christ has given to us. We are called to work hard, efficiently, and with meaning concerning His Truth. Peter warns of the power and influence of personal philosophies people have made up for themselves that make us feel good and give us a sense of accomplishment when we “discover” them. What Peter has taught has not been made up. Jesus is real and is Power; He is the real Truth! And, Christ is coming again! The message from Peter and the Prophets was not manmade or clever philosophical wisdom; rather, it came from God Himself. In addition, the Prophets and Apostles as well as science, reason, history, and personal testimonies verify it.

Vs. 12-15: The people to whom Peter was writing were being clever with words and arguments in making up their own spurious doctrines. They were confusing others and twisting what Peter had said. Peter shows them his Apostolic testimony, that what he has taught from Christ is real, impacting truth.

· Remind you/stir you up was an ancient “moral exhortation” to illustrate that false teachings by manipulative and prideful men have taken a foothold. Peter’s theme was that the Word of God, the Gospel, and all teaching must be true to His Word. His congregation should and would have known what was true (Matt. 28:10; Heb. 10:24-25).

· Tent/in his body was a colloquialism that meant body. Perhaps Peter was warned by the Spirit that his time was limited. Thus, his point is that time, for all us, is short, but we have hope. The physical nature of our humanity, our life here on earth, is transitory and temporary. Our real home is Heaven (John 1:14; 2 Cor. 5:1-4).

· Make every effort indicates to pay close attention. This was, conceivably, Peter’s last chance to inform his people of what was important. His passion and purpose was not to have a life of laziness or leisure, but be fervent in proclaiming Christ and His Gospel. The questions for us are what are we doing? And, how are our efforts going? We have a purpose! The results are not as important as our obedience to follow and practice His call (John 21:18-19)!

· Departure literately means exodus, as in leaving one place for another. Our bodies are corporal, temporal, and temporary; we are not made for this world but for eternity. Peter was not afraid of death, but saw it as a conversion to the next step, which was his eternal life with Christ (Luke 9:31)!

We are called to take the spiritual initiative and be productive! Does God need to stir you up? Are you spiritually lazy or apathetic? Does your Christian activity line up to His revealed truth or is it based on your plans and agenda? Is your teaching from His Word or a counterfeit? Always be willing to know the difference and be willing to repent and seek forgiveness when you are wrong! True Christianity and its practice never retire or become counter-productive (Matthew 28)!

Vs. 16-21: Peter had seen the glorious, majestic splendor of Jesus firsthand and he had heard the very voice of God. He had even replicated some of Jesus’ miracles. Many say that Peter’s confidence came from directly seeing Christ firsthand, but that the full impact did not occur until after Jesus left them bodily and sent His Spirit. Thus, we do not have to have seen Jesus personally to have the same confidence that Peter and Paul had!

· We. Peter does not stand alone; he is connected with others and real Truth. He has the witness of the other Apostles, the Law, the testimony of the Prophets, and most importantly, the Spirit. We have all this too, plus the completed cannon of God‘s most precious Word!

· Stories/Myths refers to untrue stories as well as flawed, thoughtless reasoning, philosophical nonsense, mythical ideas, hearsay, and fake wisdom coming from false, misguided, or heretical teachers (1 Tim. 1:4; 2 Tim. 4:4).

· The power. Christ is glorious; He is a fact in history and in our lives as Believers. We are established by Truth!

· Coming of Christ. In the Greek, parousia refers to coming, imminent in its power and approach, but not limited to a timeframe. The point is, He will return and in incredible, unimaginable power,so be prepared (Matt. 16:27-17:8; 24:27-30; 1 Thess. 3:13; 2 Pet. 3:4, 12).

· Eyewitness refers to Peter‘‘s Apostolic testimony and his call and empowerment to proclaim the Truth. Here, Peter is establishing his authority and credentials that show he was with Christ firsthand. Eyewitness accounts and testimonies were not as reliable in ancient courts as they are today. Thus, our faith as a testimony is but one facet among many other factual evidences.

· Majesty. Here Peter is referring to the Transfiguration, which literally means to change in form. This was a glimpse into the things to come,the revelation of Jesus’ divinity in being fully God. He rarely showed His divinity, but now the disciples could begin to fully comprehend who Jesus was and confirm their faith and what was ahead for them (Matt. 17:1-8; Luke 9:29; John 1:14; Heb. 1:1-4). Peter uses this as his authentication. Today, we have the Spirit and God’s Word as our testimony plus what He is personally doing in us by the Spirit‘‘s working in our inner life to transform us (Rom. 8:11; 12:2; Col. 3:18).

· Majestic Glory/the glory. This is a Jewish circumlocution (idiom) referring to God’s incredible presence used so to not demean, deface, or misuse the sacred, divine name of God.

· Sacred mountain refers to the title for Zion. It also refers to Moses on Mount Sinai and other events where God spoke to man on holy mountains (Isa. 2:2-4).

· Made more certain/something more sure refers to the Prophetic testimony of the Prophets plus hard evidence. We have a legacy; we do not stand alone. Peter may also be inferring that with the Law, Prophets, and Gospel, we have a better testimony because we have more information and power giving more confidence and hope than the Jews have. This means we have solid proof that no argument or human reason could stand against, unlike the seductive conjecture and pseudo-experiences of the false teachers.

· Pay attention...you do well/you ought is an expression to do something with your faith and life!

· A light shining in a dark place. The Prophets, and sometimes God‘s Word today are lights shining in darkness that people may not want to see lest they be convicted by them. And, they are never to be used for personal gain or agendas. Real prophecy and knowledge come from God, not our agendas. The real Prophets of the Old Testament did not seek to be Prophets or to have an audience merely for their own power or glory. Rather, they just obeyed God. God’s Word is a Light to the darkness of the world. We to are not to seek glory or honor for ourselves. We are only to seek Him and allow His Light to be used in us!

· Morning star referred to the planet Venus, and was a depiction in Judaism meaning the advent of dawn or a new day or age. This is also a name for Jesus‘ first coming and messiahship. It also alludes to the kingship of Israel and refers to His second coming (Num. 24:17; Psalm 84:11; Mal. 4:2; Rev. 2:28; 22:16).

· Rises, as a sunrise gives a new day light, possibly refers to the future effect of Christ‘‘s coming on believers as well as hope for us now. Also, His full revelation will finally be revealed, eliminating all deceptive philosophies and teachings. Allow His Word to shine in your heart (1 Cor. 13:8-12).

· No prophecy. Prophetic words from Divine inspiration were never from the prophet‘s own mind, nor should any teaching in the Church be so. All teaching must be rooted in God’s solid precepts. Even with the limits of human vocabulary and understanding, speaking the real truth must be sought with all diligence, as God will protect His truth (1 Cor. 5:13; 7:40; 12:4; 14; 1 Pet. 1:10-12; 2 Pet. 2:1).

· Interpretation. The Catholic Church uses this verse to mean the Bible cannot be read by the common man. Others have taught the Bible must never be interpreted. This is, in fact, what it does not say. Rather, it says we are not to make up things, read into God’s Word what is not there, or merely rely on human interpretation or tradition.

· Spoke from God meant that God’s Word is reliable and authoritative and does not need our extra verbiage, only our application and obedience of it. The authority is God’s, not that of the pastor or teacher who gives it commentary, no matter how good or insightful it may be (Dan. 8:15; Zach. 1:9).

· Carried along by the Holy Spirit. This is further testimony that the Spirit is the source of the Prophet‘s prophecy and God’s Word, all representing God’s instructions, precepts, and authority (2 Tim. 3:16; 1 Pet. 1:10-12).

Peter points out that the Prophets preached and wrote to an audience in darkness and despair and who would not be convicted. He feels the same, as his words are shining in the dark. Perhaps, you feel your efforts are the same, but being faithful does not always means having results. We are all called to be the bright light of His Light shining in us. We are to realize our place and in humility realize He chooses to use our weak verbiage to enthuse and equip others to apply His percepts and call! God is the deliverer; we are the receivers. We are to receive in humbleness. God’s Word does not come from us, but it is moved into us by the Holy Spirit and then proclaimed by us! The writers of the Bible were human authors who were used by God. They actively spoke His Word as they recorded. How heinous for us to seek to twist and manipulate His Word for our own agenda!

Our growth in Christ has value! Real, impacting, growing faith requires our diligence. Thus, we are asked to rekindle our Christian growth as an ongoing effort and apply His Truth so our hearts become centered upon Him. Just think what self-control, patience, endurance, godliness, and love would do for you and those close to you (2 Pet. 1: 5-11)! Our failure to obey God will cause us to lose out on so much in life and in eternity. Our diligence to remain faithful and obedient with virtue will help enable others to do so. When we obey God, He will reward us beyond our ability to fathom!

My four year old niece asked me, since Jesus lives in me, does He take a nap? Jesus lives and is to shine in our hearts, and He never naps!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

1. Do people have to remind you of important things to do so you do not forget? How important are their reminders to you?

2. Have you ever compared what you had with faith and confidence in the past with what you have today? Have you grown, have you remained the same, or have you taken a backward slide?

3. What would it take for you to recover that confidence or knowledge you once had and grow it further?

4. What can you do to pay more attention to Christ and not to falsehoods or misleading teachings?

5. How have the busyness and stresses of life distracted you from fully following Christ and His call and gifting for you?

6. What are some of the teachings that seem to tingle your interests and emotions or that of others, but are not rooted in Scripture?

7. What does the significance and relevance of Christ mean to you? How can you communicate this with more impact to others?

8. How does knowing that the message from the Word of God and Prophets was not manmade or some clever philosophical wisdom, but rather from God Himself give you hope and confidence to share your faith with others?

9. Can you name some of the reasons for your faith that is attested by science, reason, history, and/or personal testimonies?

10. What is your passion and purpose in life? What are you doing about it, and how are your efforts going? What gets in the way of these? Do they line up with God’s precepts? How do laziness and apathy get involved?

11. We are called to take the spiritual initiative and be productive! What does this mean to you? How does God need to stir you up? Are you spiritually lazy or apathetic? Does your Christian activity line up to His revealed truth or is it based on your own plans and agenda? Does the teaching you receive come from His Word or is it a counterfeit?

12. What can your church do to remind its congregation to be on guard against those who seek to derail them from His Word and Truth? How can setting up mentors and good examples in order to help others make your church be more glorious for His Glory? What is needed to make this a reality?

General idea: We are living in a time where the pulpits and airways are filled with impiety, licentiousness, vain prophesies that do not come true, and shameful counterfeit truths by false teachers and their distorted teachings. It is a darkness that is unprecedented; those who love the Lord and are following His precepts in servanthood become more and more rare while shallow thinking, seeking hidden meanings, emotionalism, social trends, and the latest and greatest ideas take center stage. False teachers are a way of the Christian life. Not THE Way; rather, it seems they have always been with us and they will always be with us. There is something wrong with human nature, as we want to put ourselves in the story as the main character. We want to be the center of attention and thus lead others to ourselves and not to Christ. We tend to do this in life and in ministry. We love to proclaim our ideas, fantasies, and dreams and rationalize them as truth, conniving others into following them, while Christ stands at the door and knocks.

Peter is giving us a “false teacher detector” in this chapter. Peter is warning us of how deceptive and tricky they are, so we can be on guard and root them out. Consider that a true follower of God is humble and operates in the virtues Peter has already set in the first chapter as a template for us. A false teacher sneaks and schemes in our churches, and starting to manipulate others, seeks to lead others to their camp, which is pitched in deceptions and falsehoods. God is put down and they are lifted up. Fanciful ideas and personalities are shown rather than Christ crucified or as LORD. The end result is the destruction and desolation of the church¾those people who followed even though they knew better. But take heed; the false teachers will get their judgment in the end. In the meantime, we have to be on security alert to protect the flock, not allowing them in to get a foothold on His sheep. Sheep will run astray. As shepherds, we are called to guard the sheep¾even when they do not want to be guarded!

Vs. 1: Heresies come from the minds of people who are not in Christ, who refuse to know Him, or who do not have the conduct of Christ, even though they may be Christians, saved by grace. They rely on opinions and not facts. The end result is divisiveness and conflict in the church while Christ and the work He has called us to do goes unmet and undone.

· False prophets refer to people who make up stories of future events, claim to have visions when they did not, or confuse a vision from their imaginations as being from God. In contrast, real prophets were humble and proclaimed what God had clearly revealed, His heart to ours without contradiction or personal gain and power (2 Kings 18:19; Isaiah 9:13-17; Jer. 5:31; 14:14; 23:16-32, Ezek. 13:3-10).

· False teachers refer to counterfeit or blatant heresy as teaching what was not revealed by the Apostles at that time or by God’s Word for our time. False teaching is not just about doctrine; it is also about character, virtue, and faithfully following Christ and living for Him. True teachers correct what is false and do not appeal to people’s vanity; rather, they seek to glorify Christ (Matt. 24:4-5, 11; Acts 20:29-30; Gal. 1:6-9; Phil. 3:2; Col. 2:4, 8, 18, 20-23; 2 Thess. 2:1-3; 1 Tim. 1:3-7; 4:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:1-8; 1 John 2:18-19, 22-23; 2 John 7-11; Jude 3-4).

· Among you. God, in many places, warns of false teachers. They are already amongst us and will still come to us.

· Destructive refers manly to moral, spiritual, and social damage because of the failure to have good Christian conduct.

· Heresies is a Greek term meaning to convey a truth that is not aligned to accepted truth, or another group玍s proclaiming something different or referring to different sects of religion. Peter and Paul used this term to illustrate that our responsibility is to real Truth and we must fight anything that departs from what Christ has modeled and taught, or it will lead to judgment (Acts 24:5; 1 Cor. 11:9; Gal. 5:20)!

· Denying the sovereign Lord/Master. This means denying who and what Christ is and has done. They were teaching and practicing immorality. This is not about losing our salvation; if once saved, you are always saved (John 10:28-29; Rom. 8:28-39). This means their profession of faith was possibly spurious at best, or fictitious at worst (1 John 2:3-4, 19). Some have used this passage to mean Christ s death was for all, not just the elect, which would allow for universalism. This view falls away from other passages (John 6:37-40; 10:14-15; 27-29; 11:51-52; Rom. 5:8-10; 8:28-29, 32; Gal. 2:20-21; 3:13-14; 4:4-5; 1 John 4:9-10; Rev. 1:4-6; 5:9; 22:17).

· Who brought/accept them refers to people who are in Christ, saved by grace. These are Christians who were once of the faithful, but who turned their backs on correct doctrine, denied His Lordship, and/or did not continue in faithful living. This is betrayal to Christ Himself, to receive the Blood of the Lamb and then throw water on it to dilute it and wash it away (Heb. 6:4-9; 10:26-29; 2 Pet. 2: 10-19; 1 John 2:3-4)! This is what we call backslidden in doctrinal or moral mindsets (Prov. 14:14; Acts 21:21; 2 Thess. 2:3; 1 Tim. 4:1; Heb. 6:4-6; 10:38, 39).

· Swift destruction refers to judgment and accountability to God that will happen, not necessarily in a human, immediate, timely way but in God’s perfect timing. The calamity can mean physical death or our Lord's second coming (Matt. 24:50-51; 2 Thess. 1:9).

The references to false teachers, or those who follow such teachings, do not necessarily mean that people who follow them were not real, sincere, saved Christians when they got hooked, as many true followers are led astray and even good teachers can be misled. And, there are those who purposely seek to be deceiving, claiming to be believers when they are not. Good intentions or not, be warned. When we do get hooked in to what is false, Christ is the One who is pushed away! The end result s the same; people are led astray. If this happens to you, run¾do not walk¾away from them! If you are a leader, confront them. If they refuse to heed, get rid of them until they stop and make obvious repentance.

Vs. 2-3: False doctrines are extremely destructive! Why is the teaching of false doctrines wrong? Because it distorts Christ, and God is a God of Truth. When we do not realize His truth, we will error in other ways too, thus leading us away from His Ways and Truth while bringing disrepute and chaos to all we do.

· Shameful ways/sensuality means “debauchery” as in reckless, incorrigible, unrestrained, sensual indulgences of sexual immorality. This is about seeking sinful, physical gratification, or giving into one’s desires. This leads to being merciless and unscrupulous in one’s dealings with others! When we fight against one another, especially in the church, it is hurtful and even pathetic in God’s eyes (Gen. 4:8; Duet. 25:17-19; Joshua 7; Matt. 21: 1-17; Luke 9:54; Rom. 13:13; 2 Cor. 12:21; Eph. 4:19; 1 Pet. 4:3).

· This also refers to “shame,” something that is often foreign in our society. It means we feel guilty because of our sin or our failure to live as Christ has called, and it affects our self-identity. This, in context, is profiteering at another’s expense, oppression, and gaining profit from twisting truth, stealing, or manipulating like pirates of the sea (Gen. 3:7-8; 2:25; Psalm 31:17; 35:36; 44:7; 119:30-31; 132:18; Rom. 3:23-24).

· Disrepute/blasphemed means we dishonor Christ and His Church. Because of immorality, a lack of accountability, and rationalizing that the sin is OK, we miss the point of Christianity.

· Greed means to love the gain of wealth over all else. It refers to being motivated by the desire for money and seeking whatever means to get it, as in “fleecing the flock.” Today, it can mean to commercialize the Christian faith for personal gain rather than to glorify Christ. This abuses the church, abuses the position of leadership, brings distrust to the standing of the church, and brings dishonor to Christ (1 Cor. 9:14-15; 12:17-18; 1 Tim. 5:17-18; 6:5; 1 Pet. 5:2).

· These teachers referred to people who traveled from one place or church to another and charged fees to perform divinations, visions, occult practices, or held new theories in theology that did not come from the Apostles or the Old Testament. They were about exploiting people for the money and glory by perverting the truth (Prov. 28:23; 29:5; 1 Thess. 2:1-6)!

· Not been sleeping. It seems false teachers have the money, fan base, and advantage, but God is not asleep; judgment is at hand for them!

The Bible warns us that when the clever lie, appealing to people玍s lust for what is new and counterfeit and appealing to vanities by fake flattery, and the deceit of the false teachers does not take hold, they will resort to claiming that what is true is false. Because their ideas are divorced from sound reason or scriptural foundation, they will scoff and scorn the real Truth and the tenets of the faith. They will make fun of it and twist it so the truth becomes the lie and the lie becomes the truth. Their goal is to take you away from Christ as Lord and enslave you to vain philosophies and ideas that glorify people and the self rather than Christ. Christ is their enemy. It is all about control. Will it be God, you, or them (Col. 1:16-17; Heb. 1:1-2)?

How can you tell if someone is a false teacher? Simply by the fact that what they teach is not rooted in the precepts of God’s most precious Word! Just as a bank teller must learn what a real hundred-dollar bill looks and feels like so when the fake comes he/she will be prepared, so it is regarding false teachers. However, most Christians may not be able to tell what is truth compared to what is fable or false. There is also another way to tell, and that is how they are in disposition and Fruit. False teachers are typically self centered, egotistical, and manipulative; life is all about them. The Fruit of the Spirit is not flowing, and in its place are pride and strife. They tend to have charismatic personalities so people become enamored by their celebrity and persona while they ignore their goods. In contrast, our example is humbleness and virtue, love and kindness, as well as strength under control¾and that is our Lord Jesus Christ. Is he/she acting like a servant, or positioning self for power and prestige? Rather than in flashy manipulative personalities, in bait and switch, or in secretive or scheming teachers, the truth of God is revealed in the character and in words that are spoken by the teacher. Rarely if ever have I seen a false teacher be humble, caring, or loving, or have a servant玍s heart. It is all about them; God may be proclaimed, but the message will be so rare or watered down, it is diluted beyond being usable.

What is to stop false teachers is our discipleship and accountability with others? Being immersed in the Word so we follow His percepts, not ours or those of another person.

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. What do you consider to be false teachings? Why do you suppose they have always been with us?

2. How would you describe shallow thinking? Why do you suppose people prefer not to think or examine something carefully to see if it is true or not?

3. What teachings are in the Church that, in your opinion, need to be confronted and countered?

4. Have you ever been attracted to false teachings? If so, how and why? If not, how have you guarded yourself from them?

5. Why do you suppose that many pulpits and airways are filled with false prophecies and false teachings?

6. Why would a church be taken in by social trends, fanciful ideas, personalities, or the latest and greatest ideas that are contrary to God’s Word? How do false teachers connive others into following them?

7. How do false teachers work to undermine the real work of Christ? What is an example of their use of deception and manipulation? How do they twist God’s truth?

8. What is an example of what they teach? What is the difference between what is essential and orthodox, what we can agree to disagree about, and what is counterfeit that needs to be fought and removed?

9. What does it mean to be motivated by the desire for money? How are false teachings a betrayal to Christ Himself?

10. How do people become enamored by a false teacher’s celebrity and persona while they ignore their goods? What can the church do to better educate people to avoid them?

11. When we fight against one another, especially in the church, how is this impacting our communities for the gospel? It is important to know when to fight and when to let it go so it does not divert others from Him.

12. What can you do to be on guard against false teaching? What should your church do if a pastor or any other person teaches what is false and misleading and refuses to repent? True teachers correct what is false and do not appeal to people’s vanity; rather, they seek to glorify Christ. What are you going to do about this?

General idea: Take heed, God will destroy those who are wicked; but take comfort, for He also will rescue those who are in Him. No one is immune from the judgment of God. No one will escape God’s wrath! We cannot think that because of grace we have a “license to kill,” or to teach as we see fit, or to do as we please, thinking God will forgive us. Yes, we have special favor and dispensation with grace and receive a multitude of forgiveness. However, to deliberately sin, do wrong, or teach what is false or misleading and knowingly continue in it, thinking it is OK, will cause us big trouble. God did not excuse the angels when they sinned and fell to become demons. God did not spare any ancient culture or people group, tribe, clan, family, or person who transgressed His law. For all have sinned and all have fallen short of the glory of God. Cities were destroyed, and vast civilizations were wiped out, never to be known to us today. Such judgments set a tone for us to heed. We are to consider ourselves as clearly warned. To distort or pervert God’s most precious Word has a well-deserved death sentence attached to it in the Kingdom.

Humanity is bent on seeking what is false and trading truth for a lie. We love arrogance and lust, despise authority, scoff at those who are righteous, and seek sin rather than Him. Yet, in the midst of judgment and doom, God has grace and spares those who fear and love Him. We have hope and certainty when we hold on to truth in Jesus and point out lives in His direction. With grace, God does not seek perfection, as no one would be able to make it. However, He does seek for us to be the best we can be. We will make mistakes and be forgiven, but we need to keep moving in His direction, perfecting and improving our spiritual and earthly lives to glorify Him as Lord (Rom. 3:23; 6:23)!

Vs. 4-9: Take the warning. God did not spare the angels who fell and He will not spare those who live ungodly lives, those who are self-willed, and/or those who refuse His grace. This is serious! God does not want hucksters in His church, people who use devious methods to promote themselves or false doctrines. There is no escape from God’s judgment¾then or now. So, be wise, get real, and fall to your knees in repentance if you have ever misled someone in the name of Christ. You may think you have escaped God’s notice or care. But, your judgment will be a reality; it will be swift and heinous, and you will be deserving of it. However, our repentance is sweet to His ears; He forgives us in abundance, but our repentance is a must to obtain His forgiveness (Matt. 7:15; Acts 20:28ff; Titus 1:10-16)!

· Angels when they sinned. There are two main references in Scripture that depict how angels sinned. The first is in Genesis 6:1-4 where the “sons of God” (as in angels) intermarried and cohabitated with humans, producing the Nephilim. (God has since made this impossible for them.) The “sons of God” could have been another created order we do not know about. See Mark 12:25; Jude 6; and 1 Enoch (Pseudepigrapha, a non-canonical book). The second main sin was when one-third of the angels (satan and His legion of demons) fell to evil and sin (Gen. 3; Psalm 148:2, 5; Isa. 14:12–15; Ezek. 28:12, 17; 1 Cor. 10; Rev. 12:7–9).

· Sent them to hell. The Greek is Tartarus, which was a Greek term (from Homer’s metaphors) to indicate where the wicked spirits and peoples were “cast out” to be penalized and severely tortured. Tartarus was made for the Titans who were super beings, the children of Uranus and Gaea, who conspired to rule the heavens but were defeated by Zeus. For the Jews, it was a place for fallen angels. For the Kingdom of God, this is a “holding cell” for the wicked while they await their trial and judgment. Scripture seems to indicate some demons are allowed to run free (while others are in prison for reasons that are not given) perhaps to do God’s bidding to test and perfect us (Acts 17:28; Titus 1:12).

· Judgment. This refers to the final judgment, called the great white throne judgment (Rev 20:11-15). Hell is real; you do not want to go there!

· Ungodly people. A reference to our total depravity (Gen. 6:5, 11-12, 8:21).

· Preacher of righteousness is a description of Noah who was a person dedicated to righteous living amongst a pagan culture of debauchery. In Jewish traditional writings (Sibylline Oracles and Jubilees), Noah is portrayed as preaching against sin and condemning the lifestyles of the wicked who, if they did not pursue repentance, would not inherent eternity (Gen 6:1-14).

· Seven others refers to Noah's family who were eight in number (Gen. 1 Pet. 3:20). God is loving and will save those He has chosen.

· Condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah conveys the image of the embodiment of ultimate sin (Gen. 19; 32:32; Isa. 1:9-10; 3:9; 13:19; Jer. 23:14; 50:40; Lam. 4:6; Ezek. 16:46; Zeph. 2:9).

· Distressed by the filthy lives. Lot was called a "righteous man," even though he performed the dubious action of offering His daughters to be raped, not to mention what happened to his wealth and what he was doing in that city. This is very perplexing. Perhaps hospitality customs, a code of honor, and the honor of entertaining and protecting the angels when the city folk wanted to rape them was greater than the rights and honor of women then. Later on, Lot allowed his daughters to rape him twice to produce sons, thinking the world was ended and they were all that was left. Thus, maybe he just was not wise like Abraham and acted with good intentions, and, even though he was wrong, thought he was doing the right thing. Perhaps he was forgiven; perhaps the veracity of his life was good. In any case, God chose him to be righteous by grace just as he has done with us. Perhaps God honored Abraham’s intercession for him. Take comfort that when we are in Christ, God will deliver us out of temptation and rescue us (Gen. 13: 10-11; 18:23-32; 19:1-17, 30-38).

· Continuing their punishment/keep under punishment points to a reference to the future or the possibility that God does preliminary punishment before the judgment, and/or that God holds those who are wicked and destined for punishment before the Judgment, just as the police do with criminals before their trial. The point is the certainty of their punishment.

God will destroy those who are wicked! As we look at church history and what goes on today, the devil continues his work of evil and is persistent in assaulting the work of our Lord and what He calls us to be doing in the world!

Vs. 10-11: Peter is dedicated to condemnation and getting rid of false teachers in the church. And, he makes it clear that false teachers will be judged severely, because those who teach are under a great responsibility to teach correctly and in truth. When we deceive others because we follow the will of our ways, we prove our sinful nature is in control and that we do not care. The other main reason why false teachers engage in their wicked craft is they have a distain for authority and disrespect for God.

· This is especially true. This is a reference to the power and actuality that heretics will be judged. This may also have been a reference to the practice of immoral sexuality and/or homosexuality because of the reference made to Sodom and its reputation.

· Slander celestial beings/glorious ones. The Greek means to slander “glories.” This means to blaspheme angels or anyone who represents God and His sovereignty. The false teachers may have also denied the reality of angels or demons, or mocked them since they also denied the reality of Christ. This also refers to those who hate authority, challenging, disrespecting, and despising authority, even that which comes directly from God. Some of the false teachers were being theatrical and were slandering demons and making fun of them, thinking they were muting their power, which they were not. They were only subverting true spiritual warfare which is to invoke Christ’s power and Supremacy, not ourselves. This also applies to despising and slandering of pastors and church leaders who speak out against false teachers (Acts 19:13; Eph. 1:19-23; Jude 8-11).

· Angels . . . do not bring slanderous accusations. Angels seem to have the right to talk back and to place blame where blame is due, or to defend themselves, but they, by reason of the character Christ demonstrated by going to the cross, chose not to dare to bring accusations against demons. Possibly, this was because this is God’s providence, and they showed respect for His sovereignty over them. This can also mean a dismissive attitude towards demons and spiritual warfare, thus allowing the influence of Satan to flourish by denying his power and influence (1 Cor. 5:5; 1 Tim. 1:20).

The problem with false teachers is that they corrupt the church. To propagate lies that devalue, demean or distort the Person and Work of Christ is heinous. Consider that Christ is the One who loves us beyond measure and rescues us from our sins, which we do not deserve. When we distract others from whom and what He is and has done, we not only bite the hand that feeds us, but we betray our only hope and reason in life.

God is a God who loves to rescue us. But, we have to want to be rescued from of our distorted lives and thinking. He sends the Spirit ahead to prepare us for salvation. Then, when we become Christians, the Spirit lives and works in us. We are still sinful and seek sin, so we must make the determination to allow the Spirit and His Word to influence us to seek His Truth more, and learn and grow in Him. We are naturally bent on rebelling and hating authority, wanting to do things our way and not His Way. God will be hard on us until we get it¾to love, trust, and obey His Truth because His ways are best; ours will leave us unhappy and bankrupt. God does not want us to be bankrupt. He wants us to be triumphant in Him, and to proclaim Him in our lives.

We must be aware that we have a problem in the church today, and that problem is false teachers! Our awareness needs to jump to being proactive, doing a better job of screening people and providing church discipline, sanction, and even removal of people who willfully, purposely distort God’s most precious Truth. We have to ask are we, as Lot was, sick of the immorality and hatred of God? For someone to deliberately distort His truth shows they are perhaps mentally ill, delusional, or they hate God, because God is a God of Truth and if you do not love truth, the only logical conclusion is that you must hate God.

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

1. How much influence do people in church authority have on you? Are position and authority important to you? Why, or why not?

2. Why do you suppose that no one is immune from the judgment of God? How can God’s will to judge give you hope and comfort?

3. Why do people think that because of grace, they can get away with false teaching? Considering that it is clear that God will judge false teachers, why do people follow them?

4. Can you give an example of someone seeking what is false and/or trading a truth for a lie? What do you think would be the motivation to do this?

5. Why are arrogance, lust, and despising authority attractive to people? Why would someone scoff at those who are righteous, and deliberately seek sin rather than Christ?

6. What can motivate you to seek to be the best you can be? How can you take comfort that God will deliver you out of temptation and rescue you from harm?

7. How can a dismissive attitude toward demons and spiritual warfare actually permit the influence of Satan to thrive? Why would some people, who claim they do spiritual warfare, engage Satan by their own authority rather than by invoking Christ’s power and supremacy?

8. How and why does being theatrical without teaching or only a little teaching attract people versus just quality teaching? What should a pastor do or not do to attract people?

9. What are some of the reasons why false teachers engage in their wicked craft? Why would someone in church authority hate, disrespect, and despise authority, even that which comes directly from God?

10. What needs to take place in some people for them to have the desire to be rescued out of their distorted thinking?

11. What would it mean and what would your will and your life look like if you became more triumphant in Him and lived to proclaim Him? So, how can you make the determination to allow the Spirit and His Word to influence you to seek more of His Truth, and to learn and grow in Him more?

12. How do false teachers corrupt the church? How do false teachings devalue, demean, and/or distort the Person and Work of Christ? What can you and your church do to be proactive and on guard?

General idea: This passage gives the reason and point of why Peter attacks and wages war against false teachers. It is a main theme of his message. Peter is telling us that false teachers are like untamed, wild animals that only follow their instincts; they do not think about what they do, or care that what they do is harmful. Their arrogance is like that of a useless animal that is a danger to people and must be put to death to save others from harm. Like a wild animal, they only live to satisfy their own needs and pleasures. They seek to devour and feast on the unstable minds of others and their inability to discern, and do not care about real, authentic teaching. Most people seem to prefer the excitement of emotionalism or the self-help from a Dr. Phil type, and not the wisdom of God or the accountability and insights from the shepherding of a man grounded in God’s Word. False teachers, in their lust for new nuances that are not true or seeking what is a lie over and against what is clearly revealed in Scripture as truth are foolish and harmful to others. By seeking evil and harm when God’s call is to display excellence and correctness in teaching, they create chaos in His Church.

Vs. 12-13: False teachers are immoral and will be condemned! What gets the false teachers in more trouble is that they teach what they do not know, while claiming they do know, and they do not care that what they teach is wrong. They seek people who are allured by fantasy, emotionalism, or the lust of a new nuance that is not true.

· Matters they do not understand refers to seeking special knowledge and secrets for greater self-fulfillment that are so esoteric and illogical they do not make sense. This was the way it was in the early development of Gnosticism. It is ironic for those who sought knowledge by their arrogance because the knowledge they sought was completely absurd and showed them to be fools. This was also, of course, blasphemy to our Lord!

· Like brute beasts. This is a sarcastic insult condemning their irrational teachings and behaviors, which were like that of wild animals who are dangerous and worthless to commune with. They are only usable to hunt for food and destruction is their only future. The contrast is that people are to be reasoning beings, whereas animals are not able to think. They only have instinct. Stoic philosophers considered unreasoning humans to be as wild beasts.

· Paid back with harm. What you “dish out” will boomerang back to you. This is not the karma of Hinduism; rather, we reap what we sow¾good or bad (Job 4:8; Psalm 126:5; Jer. 12:13; Hosea. 10:12; Luke 19:21; Rom. 6:21-23; 2 Cor. 9:6; Gal. 6:8-10).

· Carouse in broad daylight refers to the reveling associated with all-night pagan parties, and the corrupt practices that ruined empires, clans, and families. Sin is usually committed in the dark¾at nighttime¾which is why shady nightclubs and such places are always dark. Turn on the lights in such a place, then run in fear of your life, as the yelling and cursing will surely happen. People do not want to be found out for their sin. However, these people pursued their wickedness in the daylight and did not even care and about being found out. They flaunted sin unashamedly, showing themselves to be worse than the pagans. God calls us to good conduct and to self-control (Isa. 57:20; 1 Thess. 5:7).

· In their pleasures refers to self-indulgences¾seeking to distort, connive, and manipulate others for one玍s own amusement or purpose. Being self-indulgent pushes God away by our refusal to acknowledge Him in all aspects of our lives, forsaking maturity for what is dangerous and corruptive. They were turning the holy observance of the Lord’s Supper into a shameless nightclub scene of debauchery and sexual sin.

· In their pleasures/their deceptions. They were deceiving people, changing truth for a lie, and calling lust love. Thus, they were not promoting real love, rather lies and covetousness!

· They feast with you refers to the communion the Early Church did which was a shared meal and then a retelling of the Last Supper (Jude 12). The false teachers were making a parody of the Last Supper, diminishing its scope and value by perverting it and using it to entertain, connive, and as a “put down” to others (1 Cor. 10:14-17; 11:17-22, 27-34). There is also a Greek word play here where the word for pleasure and deception, apatais, is similar to the word for “love feast,” apapais. If not dealt with, these false teachers will feast on you and your church!

False teachers need to be revealed and dealt with swiftly. In Peter’s time, they were proclaiming union with God and peace without worrying about sin, that there is no judgment, and that Christ is not coming back so we can do as we please with grace. This gets people excited and focused on things that are not in God’s plan or purpose. Hence, He is ignored and the false prophet is lifted up. Twisting God’s truths to fit our whims and to rationalize our sin is blatantly evil. Do not allow this in your church!

Vs. 14-16: Teaching what is clearly wrong or leading others in error is a disgrace to who Christ is and what He did for us. It betrays Christ, blasphemes Him, and is adultery to God. It mutes His precepts from those who are unwilling or unable to think about, research, or realize a truth from a lie. The sad thing about this is that the counterfeit teachers have nothing while thinking they have everything. In fact, all the false teachers have is their judgment and destruction to look forward to unless they repent.

· Eyes full of adultery means “eyes full of adulterous women,” and refers to desire and seeking women for sin, always thinking about adulterous or “easy” women, and seeking to sin with them. This is unquenchable sensuality. One is so full of thinking about the opposite sex that there is no room for industrious pursuits or godly thinking. Hence, the importance of moral training is understood (Matt. 5:27-28)!

· Seduce/entice means ensnare by the means of deception, as in to hunt animals or to lure fish with bait to catch them. Here, it is tempting and enticing unbalanced, naïve, and unthinking people for evil desires. God calls us to practice moral strength so to not be enticed. A firm foundation of faith and trust in Christ will keep us from being enticed and being deceived. If not, we will be easy prey (James 1:14; 2 Pet. 1:12).

· Experts/trained in greed. Expert means having a heart or passion. Greed means self-indulgence, and implies the exercise and training of an athlete but not for sport. Rather, it is to pursue decadence and bad behaviors. They were literally teaching and training people for greed and debauchery, and personally profiting from their “disciples!” False teachers love sin and will rationalize that it is OK, and enticing others to sin also!

· Accursed brood/children means disinherited children who received a curse and not a blessing or inheritance because of their wicked acts or betrayal and/or refers to just being doomed, under a curse.

· Balaam was a Jewish proverbial saying for being foolish, seeking greed, and dishonorable character. Balaam was a Midianite and was a prophet of God. In the book of Numbers. His story was of one who sought riches and his desires over what God had gifted him with and the call to use the gifts appropriately. He became a mercenary of greed who enticed the Jews to sin and they were judged. He symbolizes gluttony and the seeking of evil, and was considered worse than an invading army. He was a man who wanted it both ways¾God’s and his. Thus, he engaged in what was futile and foolish. Peter was using the most foolish person typified in the O.T to show how absurd and irrational the false teachers were. (Num. 22-25, 31:1 -18, especially 23:7; 24:5-9, 17; 25; 31:8-16; Deut. 23:4; Josh. 13:22; Micah 6:5; Jude 11; Rev. 2:14).

· Rebuked. Balaam was chastised for his insanity in choosing to pursue evil rather than what God had called. He knew better, yet he did not yield (2 Kings 9:11; Jer. 29:26).

· Beast without speech/speechless donkey. God directly opened the donkey玍s mouth, or perhaps he used the angel who possessed the donkey to speak to Balaam. The angel then stood in Balaam’s way with a sword. Notice the ironic context of animals in this passage. Here, an animal is used to instruct a so-called wise man! The “ass” had more spiritual insight than this so-called Prophet. The angel and donkey only temporarily restrained Balaam, who then resorted to manipulation to get his unjust reward. The people in Peter’s church were acting like animals; they sought what was forbidden, conniving and manipulating others for their personal gain and evil desires (Num. 22:27-35).

Balaam. He had the knowledge and some power from the One True God, yet he purposely allowed Balak to manipulate him with riches to curse the Israelites and bless the Midianites, which God had forbidden him to do. Balaam sought money over God’s call and precepts and engaged his gifts for foolish gain, enticing the Israelites to evil. He played a dangerous game of deception and straddling the fence between God’s ways and his faulty desires and lust. God had to use a donkey to talk to him as he refused to heed God and His ways. However, he still did not listen, and God was forced to constrain him to have him utter prophecies concerning the future of Israel and of His glory. Thus, He did bless the Israelites, but he also showed the Midianites how to get them by enticing them to sin with their women, which the Israelites soon did. Balaam’s name went from meaning a prophet of greatness to being a reference to a feeble foreigner or glutton, a name of shame.

Balaam shows us we can choose our path in life. We have two paths we can take¾the way of Balaam or the way of God. One leads to hell and destruction by our seeking foolishness. The other leads to eternity with Him by accepting the righteousness of Christ. There is no straddling the fence in the Kingdom of God. We can choose to be foolish or we can choose to be righteous. Which way will you choose? False teachers show their path, for they do not have good character. You will know them from the Fruit of Galatians 5:19-21 whereas a true teacher of God will personify the Fruit of Galatians 5:16-18, 22-23!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Have you ever been attacked or sacred by a wild animal? How did you feel? How does this compare to listening or accepting false teaching?

2. Why do you suppose sin is usually preformed in the darkness? Can you give an example of exchanging truth for a lie?

3. Why do you suppose Peter states that false teachers basically are like untamed wild animals? How does arrogance play a part in false teaching?

4. How do misleading teachings and watering down the Word create chaos in His Church?

5. How have you seen false teachers devour and feast on people’s inability to discern?

6. Why do some Christians prefer the excitement of emotionalism or the self- help teachings from a Dr. Phil type rather than the wisdom of God from a good Bible teacher?

7. What do you suppose the motivations are of someone who, like Balaam, causes another to seek evil and harm or desire his own way rather than His way? Do you understand the importance of good teaching done with excellence and correctness?

8. How does the desire to give people what they want to hear over what they need to hear affect your church?

9. What are some of the ways false teachers use to promote themselves or their false doctrines? How and why do they attract people? What would happen if your church screened its teachers and provided church discipline for those who teach falsehoods?

10. Why do false teachers need to be revealed and dealt with swiftly? How do Christians set themselves up as easy prey for false teachers? What happens when we think we may offend and thus take no action?

11. How can having accountability, good teaching insights, and the shepherding from people who are grounded in God’s Word help spare your church from false teachings and going astray from God and His call? What can you and your church do to keep the church grounded in the Word?

12. What can you and your church do to stand up for virtue and morality, even when the community around you is disgusted by it? How can the commitment to model and teach God’s Word clearly with good, self-controlled conduct prevent false teaching? So, what can you do about this?

General idea: The false teacher is depicted as absolutely useless and downright dangerous! In an arid environment where thirst is great, there is nothing worse than coming upon an expected stream of fresh water and finding that is has dried up. The trek and energy wasted can be insurmountable. A false teacher is someone who has a clever plan and show, seeking to water those who thirst, but their water is bitter and dangerous. The real, needed water is absent. The people of God need to be watered and fed upon the precepts of His incredible Word. When we teach what is wrong, we waste not only good opportunities, but we contribute nothing of real value. We only deceive, harm the flock, and bring ill repute to God’s glory and reputation.

In Peter’s day, the real, sincere philosophers were often overshadowed by uneducated, whimsical, and manipulative people called “pseudo-philosophers” who claimed and propagated ideas, using rhetoric and sensationalism to move the people in debauchery. These are the people who led in the downfall of the Roman Empire! Goodness was ridiculed while sin was upheld. Virtue was scoffed at while indulgence was taught and sought by conniving men. These manipulative men put down knowledge, goodness, virtue, and the real philosophers who proclaimed them. Socrates, who taught ethical knowledge and confronted the loose mores of his day, was accused of immorality and corrupting others; then, he was sentenced to death. He was teaching virtue when the governing leaders were living in extreme “un-virtuous” lives. The Jews and Christians were attacked for the same reasons. They stood for virtue and morality in a society that abhorred it. How little has changed since 400 B.C.!

Vs. 17-19: When we deliver nothing to the people in our churches, we miss not only His call, but we forsake our own faith and obligations. We have to see the seriousness of this. God’s Word tells us that false teachers are doomed to the blackest darkness of Hell. Why would anyone want to tread on such thin and dangerous ice?

· Springs without water/waterless springs means barren wells that the parched traveler, expecting water, would have trekked hard and far for, only to be deceived by finding them empty. Water in the Palestine area is a precious resource; a dried-up well is useless and frustrating. Referring to water to feed our physical body, our spiritual life needs to be watered by what is nutritious and good for us, and that is the truth of God’s uncorrupted Word. Living Water is a continual theme used in Scripture and by John in particular. A false teacher will promise fulfilling truth, but he can only offer cruel deceptions by misleading, disappointing, and frustrating people, giving them dried-up and useless water (Prov. 13:14; Jer. 14:3; John 4:13-15).

· Mists refers to the fine water a storm blows that is so dispersed it can’t be caught or used. This also means storm clouds that in a time before irrigation just go overhead and never drop their water to the needy people below. False teachers cannot provide needed spiritual nourishment (Jude 12).

· Blackest darkness/gloom of utter/outer darkness was sometimes a symbol of Hell and torment. Here the false teacher’s destiny is Hell!

· They mouth empty words/loud boasts of folly means that they may use words to persuade, but, under careful examination, the words are empty and meaningless.

· Entice people. This is referring to luring people back to sin after they have escaped it by turning to Jesus. When we are new to the faith or not grounded enough in the faith to know His principles, we can be easily deceived.

· Promise freedom. The false teachers were twisting the concept and reality of grace, saying that because of it, we are no longer bound to the Law but rather have the liberty to do as we please and God will forgive. But, the point is that we are not free from His moral law and we do have responsibility and obligations. True freedom is to flee indulgences and sin not seek and engage them (Rom. 6:15-18; 1 Cor. 9:21; Gal. 3:25; 5:13-18; 2 Pet. 3:16).

· Slaves of depravity/corruption means that we can become too entrenched in our passions and sin so that we see no way out and even do not desire to come out of it. The slave here refers to the captives of an invading army, who desperately desire freedom. The theme is ironic, as they do not want their freedom. Passions that drive us will soon overtake us. The passion of exploiting others is evil; this is prostitution. Sin captivates us when we seek freedom from God. Rather, we should be joyful slaves to God so we can be freed from sin (Rom. 6:15-18).

Have you ever actually seen a dog vomit and then go back and try to eat it? How is this like sin? This is disgusting, but Scripture uses this metaphor as a Proverb for a reason. Returning to sin or to bad ideas that we escaped from is the same. False teachers will lure you with sin or corruption, telling you it is liberty. They even lure those who turned away from the pagan practices to return to them, saying it is OK. They trip them up, right back into the prison from which they made their escape by God’s jailbreak. The irony is these false teachers who teach about knowledge and freedom are themselves trapped in their own prison of nonsense, empty of God’s instruction.

Vs. 20-22: What enslaves you? What enslaves us is what controls us, whether it is a bad codependent relationship, an actual jail sentence, or following sensationalism and faulty ideas. It will all trap and blind us. If we leave it, it is still there following us at a distance, seeking to lure us back. The devil will use this powerful means as well as your will and desires. We must be strong and hold onto our faith with assurance and confidence, or we will be like the dog that returns to its vomit!

· Escaped the corruption refers to professing Christ and then retuning to the ways of the flesh, seeking falsehoods and not righteousness. They were being superficial and naïve at best and blatantly evil and manipulative at worst. Both the false teachers, if they were really saved, and the people they infected jumped from the frying pan of sin into Jesus loving lap, only to go ahead and jump into the fire below! They had His freedom, grace, and knowledge, but rejected it for that which is dark, foolish, and foreboding.

· Better not to have known. It is better not to have known real truth than to know it and then reject it. This is the ultimate idiocy¾to have something great and true, then to trade it in for what is fallacious and evil. We have responsibly as Christians. We know the truth and we are responsible to follow the truth (Luke 12:47-48).

· The way was the original name for Christians and the Church. The name Christian, once a derogatory term, did not take hold until many years later.

· Turn their backs. We are called to persevere in the faith and preserve the faith (John 10:26-30; 1 John 2:19).

· A dog…pig. Dogs in the first century were not the beloved pets we have now. They were mostly wild, mangy, roamed the streets, and were regarded with contempt. Some dogs were used for guarding homes, and pigs were for feeding Gentile travelers. Pigs were considered the most filthy and unclean of all animals. These animals preferred the filth to cleanliness. This was casting a very derogatory picture of how bad false teachers were, calling them utter fools because they were enticing others to be in filth (Ex. 22:31; Lev. 11:7; Prov. 26:11; Isa. 65:4; Math. 7:6; Rev. 22:15).

· Washed means that just because we appear clean on the outside, that is no guarantee that we are clean on the inside¾unless Jesus has washed us clean! Religious traditions, rituals, and piety are no real proof of a person’s faith, whereas one’s character and visible fruit is.

Many of Peter’s people knew the truth of Christ and remained in His truth, but some of them decided to reject the truth for new, more exciting teachings that gave them comfort and excitement without personal responsibility or obedience. They sought the honor of their own thoughts and teachings and rejected the real honor of being in Christ. When we claim to be Christians and do not act like it we will hinder the Gospel’s message and lead others astray from The Way. This gives Christianity a bad name and reputation. We are called to practice exceptional behavior and excellence so we can show Christ through our lifestyles without even using words. Then, when we do use words, they will have impact (1 Tim. 6:1; Titus 2:5-10).

A false teaching is anything proclaimed that compromises the Person and Nature of God or His teachings. We do this by seeking our own insights and ungrounded rationales, and not the precepts of Scripture. By relying on intuitions rather than realities and facts, people are led astray. We must always compare what we think to the principles of Scripture, never to others who may be of like minds, because “group-think” will take over. Groupthink absorbs the decisions made by a group or charismatic leader, manipulating all to think alike. It is exemplified by the gullible approval and conformity to the “group’s” popular opinion and not facts or rationale. This type of thinking minimizes individual responsibility and is used to rationalize one another’s faulty views as well as sin. We are also to pay attention to Balaam’s error in the previous passage and not make our ministry and life a game or get caught up in sin. Rather, we are to see the importance of who Christ is and what He taught so we can emulate Him and His ways, not ours.

False doctrines usually come to us in the disguise of new nuances and revelations that others in the past just did not see before. This could be something like a new or deeper understanding of a Greek word, or a meaning that was hidden, but is now fully revealed to us. Such counterfeit new ideas are false because they contradict or pervert. We do get new insights and applications from understanding customs, history, word meanings, exegetical insights, and the like, but they never twist or contradict what is already clearly revealed. The bottom line is there has been nothing new since the close of the Canon of Scripture. What has been new is how many ways people have been deceived and led astray! The Bible says what it says and means what it means; there is nothing new under the Son. It is only our pride that needs to be fed by what is new so to point to the good fortune and insights of what we have found. However, if you pay attention, these new insights usually do not last long and lead many, many astray. The fruit is noise and strife, not trust and obedience. If the greatest Christian minds who ever lived in an eighteen hundred year period of time did not find what you think you have, pray carefully that it is not your pride that is being revealed. If you think you have something new, oh my, what pride lays inside you; my, oh my, how you have been deceived by it. Please don’t deceive others, too!

Teaching what is clearly wrong is wrong! It is corruption at its worst; it is prostitution as in atrocious sin. The root of all this, and what is most scandalous before our God of grace, is our heinous pride! What comes from a person who is a false teacher who is based on pride? It is absurdity! A person grounded in the Word should be able to detect and discourage others from following him or her. However, we succumb to the emotionalism and slick enticement and forget about our God of Truth.

Never think that popularity or the numbers of followers are signs of authenticity, as people can easily be swayed to believe lies. There is no real comfort in crowds, only in the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ! Do not let false teachers prey upon the people in your church! Name them and claim them as being of Satan and boot them out of your church, because they are not of God. Use their words against them and show them the door!

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Have you ever actually seen a dog vomit and then go back and try to eat it? Yes, this is disgusting. How is this like sin? Sin is disgusting!

2. How does being very thirsty compare to the desire and thirst for God’s real and true Word? How have you seen people exploit the passions of others?

3. How are false teachers dangerous? How do personal responsibility and/or obedience come into play?

4. Why do you think some people will ridicule goodness? Why would someone scoff at virtue while teaching indulgence?

5. Can you name some ways of sensationalism and how and/or why it is appealing to some people? How does discernment play a role here?

6. How does it make you feel that false teachers taught and were sought by conniving men in ancient times just as in our day? How and why does what Socrates went through typify what goes on in some churches that seek to destroy good teachers and bring in false teachers?

7. How can you tell a false promise or a mistaken or half-truth? Why is it that false teachers cannot provide the needed spiritual nourishment?

8. How and why are people who have escaped sin and turned to Jesus lured back to their old ways? How and why are they so easily deceived?

9. What enslaves or controls you? What do you have to watch out for that can trap and blind you?

10. Why is it better not to have known real truth then to know it and then reject it?

11. Why would someone profess Christ and then return to the ways of the flesh? What can your church do to make sure this does not happen in your church?

12. What can you do to be fed and watered with the percepts of His incredible Word? How can you be on guard against faulty and misguided sensationalism?

General idea: Peter restates his purpose, and desires to get his people thinking about Christ, not the trends of the day, not the new philosophies, false teachers, or the scoffers. He wants them and us focused upon Christ and the precepts and hope He brings. Our thinking needs to be based on Christ, not what we want or how we think things should be. This takes trust and seeing hope. God wants us to understand that He has real, true substance for us to know and do! We have the responsibility to know this trust and hope and put both into our life and practice them.

Peter then cements his reprimand by showing his people the ultimate hope we have in Christ, that our life is all about Him—what He has done, and what He is yet to do. And, the big yet to do is His Second Coming. Yet, in the mist of our great hope there will be great distracters who seek to derail us off His tracks by seeding our fears and unbelief. If a false teacher can’t get you to see a variant view of a skewed truth, they will turn and ridicule real truth. Thus, they will get you to laugh at the truth to demean it so you will not take it seriously. Scoffing puts the item being scoffed at down while it lifts up the scoffer. Pride is at the base of this, which is always the way Satan works. They will say, “Do you really believe that? How can you take that seriously?” We are to see where their arguments come from, mainly faulty thinking and conniving agendas causing us to forget God’s promises and even His past provisions.

Vs. 1-4: Peter was writing about some of the same root problems, namely, those of forgetting Christ’s power and impact. So, he shows them from God’s Word. He has apostolic authority and is a principle church leader with the job of giving them instructions. The problem is that the depraved human mind still will refuse to listen, no matter by what means or authority the message is relayed. God’s patience with and love for us is so amazing!

· Second letter. The first would probably be First Peter. Peter is restating his purpose by reminding them of some essential precepts from our Lord he stated in his last letter (1 Pet. 1:13-2:12).

· Dear friends means "loved ones" (1 Pet. 2:11; 4:12). Peter wants us to know for certain that Christ will return!

· Stimulate you/stir you up. Peter is seeking to help them remember who they are in Christ and the wonders of Him, not the lusts and desires of the flesh. God wants us to live lives that are worthy of being given grace and to show excellence in our character for His glory, and our contentment in Him.

· Wholesome thinking means to have a pure mind, undefiled by the filth of false teachers so we can be better prepared (Matt. 24:42-44; Rom. 12:1-3).

· Prophets… apostles. Peter is now identifying the Old Testament prophets with the New Testament Apostles as of equal authority. Both are specially called and used by God to spread His truth. However, this does not apply to us today! What does apply is that whoever is in Christ is now a representative of Christ and has responsibility and His authority to spread His knowledge (2 Cor. 5:20).

· First of all. This means "above all," as to call attention to an important issue. The issue is, there will be a judgment!

· Last days/last times means the “Christian era.” It does not necessarily refer that the actual, final days of our existence, as in the second coming, are around the corner. Rather, it means the period from the resurrection to His second coming. In other words, the present time. Many have mistaken this term to mean that Jesus is right around the corner. Maybe He is, but for countless generations who have said that, well, they have been wrong and have missed the point (Acts 2:17; Heb. 1:2).

· Scoffers ridicule and make fun of what you do not comprehend or understand. Such behavior only makes the person who scoffs the fool. The Gnostics did not believe in the idea of a judgment because they did not believe in moral accountability. Each one needs the other for either to work. Here, the false teachers were ridiculing the idea that Christ would return, since He had not yet. Also, in Jewish tradition at the time, to ridicule a righteous person was considered evil. They also argued that God neither cares for us nor intervenes in our lives and we should not trust in Him. Just because something has not happened does not mean it will not happen. Many lives, businesses, and opportunities have been destroyed by this feeble way of thinking.

· Evil desires. Not being rooted in good thinking will create evil stemming from a lack of accountability or a basis for a morality to be built upon.

· Coming… He promised/promise of His coming. Some people in the Early Church thought Jesus was coming right back and thus were teaching that as fact, and the false teachers used their impatience and misunderstandings of what Jesus taught against them. Thus, the false teachers were spreading gossip as they mocked them. Ironically, scoffing is one of the evidences that we are in the last days. We must be careful that what we believe and teach is authentic, or others will use our own words against us and perhaps be just in doing so.

· Fathers died/Ancients… fell asleep is possibly a reference to the Patriarchs who were venerated with great prestige, and have since passed on to Heaven, or the people who came before them who died, such as Steven and other church leaders or martyrs, appealing to their testimony (John 6:31; Acts 3:13; Heb. 13:7-9).

Peter is calling us to think back to what the Lord has done for us, so we don’t forget His grace, His provisions, and His answered prayers and blessings. We are not to be overcome with the struggles of the moment so we do not see how He has brought us through them in the past. We are to refresh our memory in Him.

Vs. 5-9: God is sovereign and in control! God’s mighty hand was in the environment and in humanity before the beginning of time, and continues today and on to eternity. He will judge the quick (alive) and the dead (Acts 10:42; 1 Peter 4:5; The Apostolic Creed). He made the universe; He made you for a plan and a purpose. You are no mistake; therefore, you are wanted and have a destiny. Thus, we are called to realize that and not let false teachers, scoffers, and/or connivers distract us from seeing Christ and applying His Lordship to our lives.

· Formed out of water. An image of creation when the Lord separated the waters from the sky, and how He is indeed involved in creation and with us (Gen 1:1-10).

· God's word/word of God refers to God’s ability and authority to command, create, and be Lord. By God’s word, the universe was created out of nothing. We were created and saved (Gen. 1:1-30; Psalm 33:6-9; Heb. 11:3).

· World of that time means at the time of creation. It refers to history and that God is a God of involvement and action. He is not passive as the deists teach; there is no reason or need to doubt God!

· Deluged and destroyed/perished means destroyed by water. God intervenes in history and in our lives. He will judge, as He demonstrated with the Flood (Gen 6-8).

· By the same word means “God’s divine Word” as in His utterance that creates and commands, referring that God is “all powerful.” He repeats the judgment of the flood and the importance of God as the One who is in control and who will judge.

· Reserved for fire/stored up for fire refers to an eschatological inferno of fiery, divine judgment, and possibly refers to Sodom and Gomorrah (Deut. 32:22; Isa. 65:17; 66:15-22; Mal. 4:1; 1 Cor. 3:13; 2 Thess. 1:7-8; 2 Pet. 2:6).

· A day is like a thousand years means God lives outside of space and time and is not governed by our physical or temporal laws of physics or humanity. For God, time is totally relative and in the scope of eternity. This does not necessarily refer to a literal timeline. Rather, it is a figure of speech that God’s view and perspective of things is not our view and the converse thereof. This is an aspect of His sovereignty. Also, this is a quote of Psalm 90:4.

· Slow in keeping/slowness. We have no knowledge of God’s timing! It seems that God is slow to us, but He is in absolute control and we can have patience and trust in Him and His timing. We are impatient with our thinking and expectations, whereas God is patient, allowing His grace and plan to work out. There is no need to make up dates or predict His Second Coming. We are called to be obedient and wait actively in His Word and truth.

· Patient means that our God is a long-suffering God. When God delays His judgment, this means He is demonstrating His love, grace, and forbearance for the consummation of His purpose. We are to take comfort in that He is a God of grace and mercy and is patient with us when we do not deserve it. He seeks our repentance and trust. Therefore, we have no need to be impatience or confused or allow the mocking or misleading of others to distract us from His purpose and plan (John 6:39).

· Repentance. This does not mean all will be saved. But, all are loved and desire to be saved, but somewhere is our rebellion and sin and God’s providence to elect us anyway. God wants us to repent! We are to repent of our indifference and lack of trust in Him (John 10:28-29).

Peter is restating his purpose of being an encourager and, at the same time, is shepherding them. A shepherd protects his sheep. If the sheep run astray, he will do what it takes to keep them safe and put, even if he has to beak their legs so they will not be eaten. A pastor needs to rout out false teachers and discipline those who cause others to stumble. If not, others will fall prey to things that are misleading, counterfeit, and dangerous. We can’t just look the other way, hoping all will work out. We have to be proactive and engage the enemy, even the ones in our own flock. Of course, we do this in love—but not just with feelings of love because we will not feel like loving them and, unless one has a disparaging personality, dispensing discipline will not be a joy. However, we are called to act and to do so within the Fruit of the Spirit and love, carrying a staff to remove the wolves that desire to carry off our flock.

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. Has someone ever made a promise to you and then did not follow through with it? How did you feel?

2. Where does your thinking need to be stimulated? How does remembering what our Lord has done for you in the past help strengthen your faith for the future?

3. How important is the “Second Coming” to you concerning how you live your life?

4. Do you realize that most arguments with God come from our faulty thinking and conniving agendas, causing us to forget God’s promises and even His past provisions?

5. What are some of the fears and unbeliefs that you have you heard people say about the Second Coming? How does scoffing put the item being scoffed at down, while lifting up the scoffer?

6. How and why does laughing at a truth demean it, causing us not to take it seriously? Can you give a modern example of someone scoffing about Christianity?

7. What does it mean to be established in your faith? How does keeping your mind in Him enable you to practice His precepts, character, and maturity? What blocks this from happening in you?

8. What happens when we forget about Christ’s power and impact on us? Why is it that some people will refuse to listen to truth, no matter by what means or whose authority the message comes?

9. How does it make you feel and/or strengthen your faith that God intervenes, cares, and He is involved, with the intention of making you for a plan and a purpose? What about the idea that you are no mistake, so therefore, you are wanted and have a destiny? So, what can you do to put His willingness to infuse and use you into practice? How do we live lives that are worthy of being giving grace and excellence in our character for His glory and our contentment in Him?

10. Why do you suppose that many have mistaken the term last days to mean that Jesus is right around the corner? Maybe He is; but, do you realize that for countless generations, the people saying that have been wrong and missed the point? What do you think the point is?

11. Have you ever thought that God seems slow? What needs to take place so we can understand that we can have patience and trust in Him and His timing?

12. What do you need to do so to be always thinking about Christ? To be focused upon Christ? How would focusing your mind more on being in Christ help you see the hope He brings? How would it affect your daily life? What is stopping you from doing this?

General idea: Peter, in graphic imagery and hopefulness, is making a strong argument that Christ will return and when He does, it will be un-expected with un-surpassing wonders the world has never seen. This is the climax of the Kingdom of God, the time when it comes into its fulfillment and fruition. The earth and all we know and see will be destroyed and re-formed as a new earth and a new life. There will be a judgment from which nothing will be exempt. Because all will be judged and destroyed (or renewed), we must make the most of our lives here and now, not wait for a future that may not come, or bask in the past. We must live for Christ with the hope and purpose He gives us with power, passion, and conviction. The promise of His Second Coming is to give us hope and confidence. We live in a sin-infested world now, but the one to come will be perfect, as all in it will be right with God. We look forward to His Second Coming and the fruition of his Kingdom. But, beware of sitting and doing nothing; we will delay His work and impede the preparation of His Kingdom. Our participation helps His coming, as we help build His Kingdom now.

This passage is very figurative. The purpose of figurative or apocalyptic language is to describe the indescribable. Peter attempts to help us understand these events and the importance of our being ready (Matt. 24: 36 through chapter 25). This is about being hopeful for the future, but living and being viable for the present. We can take comfort in the fact that Jesus is coming back. This time it will not be a subtle event, as a baby born in a feed trough in a cave. Rather, the entire creation will glow and bend to show the whole world His glory. This passage gives hope to a persecuted church, hope to people in despair, and hope that He is indeed in charge, even when we cannot see it!

Vs. 10: These early Christians were being discouraged by the persecutions and seemingly insurmountable sufferings and loss. The comfort of Jesus’ retuning was like cool water for a person dying of thirst on a hot day. Consequently, false teachers were taking advantage of them. These so-called Christians, who were making apocalyptic predictions, had bad motivations. They operated just like Satan, seeking to disrupt, seduce, and carry people away from Christ and to their way. If you are not sure who they are, watch their character and Fruit, which will show their true nature (Jer. 23:13; Micah 3:5; Matt. 7:15; Acts 20:28-30; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Eph. 4:14; Phil. 3:2; 2 Tim. 3:4-6; Titus 1:11,12; 2 Peter 2:18,19).

· Day of the Lord means the Lord’s final Day of Judgment where He settles all accounts and injustices. It is a synonym for the Second Coming and refers to the anticipated eschatological climax of events. Victory over darkness and sin will be achieved after God intervenes in the world with judgment and destruction to His enemies, and rewards and blessings to those who are in Him. Although this Day started with the resurrection of Christ and His victory over sin and the coming of the Spirit, it comes to its consummation and fullness after Christ’s Second Coming and Judgment (Isa. 2:11-20; 13:9-13; Joel 1:15; 3:14-21; Amos 5:18-20; 1 Thess. 2:1-3; 5:2).

· Like a thief in the night, a quote from Jesus Himself, is a vivid image of anticipated End Times, and literally means to “break in,” as to dig into the clay and brick sides to get inside the home. Here, it is a metaphor, and does not refer to a literal thief who would rob us, but that Christ’s coming will not be predicted or expected. It will be a surprise and a shock. This could only happen if the people were not there, as in not ready. Do not be ignorant of His promise (Ex. 22:2-3; Matt. 24:43; Luke 12:39-40)!

· The Heavens…disappear… with a roar refers to an Old Testament image of purification and renewal (Isa. 34:4; 64:1-4; Matt. 24:29-31).

· Elements/heavenly bodies refer to the building blocks of the universe. It is interesting that the Greeks theorized about molecules centuries before science discovered them. The basic elements in ancient times usually refer to earth, air, fire, and/or water. This term also refers to all that is in the universe such as celestial beings, planets, and stars. Here, it is most likely referring to the heavenly bodies. Peter’s point is that everything will be destroyed (some believe transformed or rebooted). (Isa. 34:4)

· Earth and everything… possibly refers to God’s judgment, that He will remove all evil and iniquity, and all of humanity’s works will be held in account.

· Laid bare/ burned up/exposed means to be found out or found, and refers to the judgment that is coming. The earth will undergo a climatic destruction or reformation. This could also mean that the earth will be destroyed and made new (1 Cor. 3:13-15). Also, it could mean being aware of our own motives¾why we do what we do. Is it to please our curiosity or manipulate others to see our way of thinking, regardless of revealed biblical truth?

The main point of this passage is to tell us not to be discouraged, but to remain faithful and vigilant. We are to live our lives preparing and planning as if Christ would be coming tomorrow or if He were coming a thousand years from now. We are not to be preoccupied with the details and trivialities. That is why Jesus did not give them to us. Rather, our faith development and steadfastness are far more impacting and real on others around us (Matt. 24)!

Vs. 11-13: God’s call for us is to be confident and exuberant that He is in control and things will work out. He does not want us forsaking our duty as Christians in the world here and now by using our energies in nonsocial and nonsensical ways, trying to predict the future and arguing our views of it. If you really think this through, it is like focusing on your favorite junk food and arguing why it is good while forsaking healthy food that is good for you and helps you to grow and thrive.

· Since everything refers to what should I do now. This is also a call¾a call to keep you from being spiritually or emotionally defeated when tough times come. We are to always see our Lord, not our situation (John 10:28-29; Rom. 8:31-39). This is an aspect of the character of faithfulness, as it will help you persevere under stress and chaos. Christ is the One who keeps us secure, not our environment!

· What kind of People you ought to be means to watch our motives and behaviors, making sure they are lined up to Christ and not with what is false and pretentious. We are to conduct ourselves with good ethics, honor, and godliness. What we do as a Christian is in response to what Christ has done in us. Works are not for our salvation; they result from our gratitude for the salvation that was freely given to us. Thus, what we should be thinking, as committed Christians, is how do we now live for Him and His glory, not how do we live for our desires and needs. He has given us everything in abundance and in love. This is not a time to be impatient; it is a time to grow and do more in Him and for Him (Heb. 13:9).

· You ought…live holy and godly/lives of holiness refers to not letting suffering overtake us or move us from His Way. Suffering is a part of life; it will happen. We have to learn to cope, seek Him, and prepare so we can help others and ourselves through it (see our article on “Suffering“). We are called to not be discouraged when bad things, troubles, disasters, and tribulations happen in the world (2 Chron. 15:6; Isa. 13:8; 19:2; Jer. 51:46; Hosea 13:13). We live in a fallen world where sin has corrupted everything and everyone, so disasters will come. We are called to prepare, plan ahead, and look to Christ as the Deliverer. He is in control!

· The day of God. This is slightly different than the “Day of the Lord” and refers to “The Coming One,” as no one else but God Himself. Both terms are interchangeable, meaning great signs will take place, and He is seeking us for our salvation as well as for our spiritual growth. (Rev. 16:14)!

· Speed its coming/eagerly waiting/hasting means to hasten on as we desire for Him to come back now. But, we cannot change God’s mind or speed things up. His timing is deemed and decreed by God’s providence and by God alone (Eph. 1:11). Peter uses this term so we will not diverge into sensationalism, emotionalism, or fatalism, but can see it from God’s view and trust in His timing. Contemporary Jewish thought was divided on whether we participate in God’s intervention. Some rabbis taught we do hasten it by our repentance, piety, and good deeds, while others said it was fixed and we have no sway over God. The debate continues today amongst Christians. Many Christians feel we hasten God’s timing by our missions and evangelism to all people groups (Matt. 24:14). The fact is, we have no knowledge of the factors God considers or how His providence, mercy, and patience are working out for our benefit, too. We do contribute; our actions matter. We hasten this day by our fervor, our humble and honest prayers, and our obedience to know Him and make Him known to others. These are the only contributions we make to His timing (Matt. 6:10; Mark 13:10; Luke 11:2; Acts 3:19-20; Rev. 8:3-5; 22:20).

· Coming refers to when Christ will come back and gives us blessings as Christians who are faithful in Him. This is an aspect of great hope, that our righteousness does matter and it will come into fruition when He comes (Isa. 9:7; 32:16-17; 62:1-2; Jer. 32:40).

· New heaven and a new earth could refer to an entire, new, created order after God destroys this one, but other passages indicate this means God reboots this one, cleanses it, and restores it as in a transfiguration process. Whatever means is used is because of His redemption that allows us to have a home of Righteousness. His righteousness will exemplify the world, not sin (Isa. 11:4-5; 45:8; 65:17-25; 66:22; Dan. 9:24; Rom. 8:21-23; 1 Cor. 15:35-57; Rev. 21:1).

Peter makes the point that since everything will be destroyed and judged, we should focus ourselves on Christ. He is our Hope and reason for life and living. He will return. There is no “if;” only “when.” It is not theory, but fact, and it points us to a faith that is sensible and useful. Our lives need to be in pursuit of Him and His Truth and principles so we are not spending our energies in sensationalism and endless debates, but rather in knowing Him and making Him known.

God calls us to be curious and hopeful with what is to come. This is to give us strength for endurance and anticipation for His work to come. But, we are not to be obsessed and impatient or slip off the path He has for us. Our focus is to be in and on Him, not on our agendas. We are to make sure we do not fall prey to sensationalism or are not carried away by those who are deceptive, manipulative, or condescending or who play to our fears, hopes, and desires. Nor, are we to fall prey to our own faulty thinking, negating the real, revealed truths. Our footing is in Christ. Let us not lose it and fall of a cliff! Our security, salvation, and lives are in Him and in Him only¾all for His glory.

His promise to return is the climax of our life and the beginning of life everlasting. It is our hope in the midst of our trials and sufferings as well as in the daily grind of life. He wants us to live in the contentment of His love, not in the circumstances of ours or other’s notions or trepidations.

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. When you were a kid, how did you feel about waiting for a birthday or Christmas or some other big event? How is this like waiting for Christ to come back?

2. How is seeking sensationalism like focusing on your favorite junk food and arguing why it is good? How do you feel physically when you forsake healthy food that is good for you to grow and thrive? How is this like forsaking good Bible teaching?

3. What do you think is the purpose of figurative or apocalyptic language? How do you feel about it? How has it brought you fear? What about hope?

4. The earth and all we know and see will either be destroyed or re-formed into a new earth and a new life. How does this make you feel? How does this give you hope?

5. Do you believe that when Christ comes, it will not be predicted or expected, perhaps even be a surprise and a shock? How, and why?

6. How can the Second Coming give you hope and confidence? How does this passage give hope to a persecuted church?

7. What do you think discourages hopeful Christians? What can be done to inspire someone who is discouraged to remain faithful and vigilant?

8. What preparation and participation do you think we are to do? What happens when people do nothing with their faith and just wait for a future that may not come?

9. What does it mean that we are to live our lives as if Christ would be coming tomorrow and also preparing and planning as if He were coming a thousand years from now? Is this a contradiction, or a plan to do?

10. Why do you suppose that Jesus did not give us the details of His second coming? What would have happened if He had?

11. Can you think of a specific area in your life that could use more hope? What does it mean for you to be confident and exuberant? What can you do to be more confident and exuberant?

12. From this passage, what do you understand God’s call to be for you? What can your church do to discipline and/or warn people who make apocalyptic predictions or have bad motivations for their teaching?

General idea: We are to wait, but we are not to be idle while we wait. We are to be involved and make every effort to know Him and make Him known. Consequently, we are to remain firm in our faith regardless of when He comes back. We do this actively with the contribution of our trust and assurance in Christ, making the most of what He has given us in His call, precepts, and opportunities. This means being pure and blameless in our obedience to and trust in Christ and being humble, the opposites of the character of the false teachers.

Peter is communicating to us that God is involved, that He does indeed care, and that He is concerned and does intervene in history, thus we can trust Him. If people come against your belief in Christ and good character, take comfort. No matter what others say or do, God will intervene in His time, and make them the ultimate fools. Peter continues to tell us to beware of scoffers who deny Christ’s return! We often need to be reminded of this, no matter how long we have been in the Lord. We need that gentle refreshing to stimulate us into correct thinking so we can have the faith and strength to stay on His path. We are to know the Scriptures and be disciplined in the faith because this is what keeps our minds on Him, and when we practice these precepts, they become rooted and make us firmer in our faith.

Vs. 14-16: Peter is closing his Epistle with encouragements and blessings. He is reminding his people of the importance of Paul’s letter(s) to them and that they are to take what he says seriously. He also warns that if they do not understand something, they are not to twist it to fit what they do understand or want. Doing that only disrupts His Truth with our whims, resulting in disaster for all who do this heinous act.

· Make every effort means for us to serve Christ with lives of holiness, being devoted to the worship and service of Him. This also means to be diligent in looking forward to Christ’s Second Coming (Matt. 25:13; 1 Thess. 5:6, 8, 11; 2 Pet. 1:13-16).

· Spotless… blameless means to be at peace with him. This means that as Christians, we can have peace with God as a result of being justified by faith. By the same token, we can still sin, disappoint, and displease God even though we are saved. He calls us to live according to His requirements, and if we refuse, we need to take heed. Our salvation is secure but we are still accountable for our actions for we will receive commendation and rewards when He returns (Rom. 5:1; 1 Cor. 3:10-15; 2 Cor. 5:10; 1 Pet. 1:19).

· Patience means salvation. This reference indicates that instead of whining, complaining, and theorizing about when He will return, we should trust in God’s timing and providence. It is because of God’s patience that He has the will to save us, for we tempt His patience all of the time (Gen. 6). We are just in God’s sight; we are just because He declares us so!

· Wisdom. Peter is stating the case; these are not his words but His words, because Paul’s letters were inspired by God (Eph. 3:2-5; 1 Cor. 2:12; Gal. 1:1).

· Hard to understand was not necessarily a demeaning statement, rather one of respect as meaning inspired and complex. In such matters, it is important we remain diligent to persevere in searching for better understanding. If we allow our emotions and first impressions to stop us, we will miss out on a lot that God has for us.

· Ignorant and unstable people. Ignorant refers to people who are not educated or refuse to learn and grow, such as Christians who have not been discipled and do not know the precepts of Jesus. Unstable refers to those who manipulate, perhaps are mentally ill or just scheming, whose thinking is twisted, and who seek to lead others away from sound teachings and God’s Word.

· Distort/twist refers to misrepresenting and manipulating something so to make it what it is not. This is done by deliberately making a declaration of what it means when it really says otherwise-just to fit a personal or group agenda. This can also arise when we misinterpret God’s Word from a lack of research and study, catering to a particular viewpoint without considering the merits of it, or being sloppy in our exegesis. The people in Peter’s day were allegorizing (seeing the text as abstract thoughts for deliberation but not for application) Paul’s words, and other Scriptures, muting the value and application of it. Today, we would call this liberalism.

· Other Scriptures refers to Paul’s Epistles, possibly a copy of Romans, which was a circular letter to many churches, and/or possibly an early Gospel and that they are God’s inspired, authoritative Word. This passage also testifies to Peter’s acceptance of Paul’s Apostleship, a testimony of unity in teaching and purpose (Rom. 1:1, 21; 16:4; 1 Thess. 2:13; 2 Tim. 3:16; 1 Pet. 1:1).

What we go through, even suffering, has meaning and purpose to it. We can remain spotless, as Jesus showed us by His words and His example. When something happens which you do not understand, seek answers in prayer, asking God what you are to learn. This is how we can better grow in the grace and love of our Lord. Then, your faith-development and steadfastness will be far more impacting and real for you and those around you.

Vs. 17-18: Peter’s Benediction. He calls us to be on our guard by pursuing our relationship with Christ, allowing our bonds to grow and become stronger so no reproach can come against our church.

· Lawless men refers to the false teachers who have ignored God or have no regard for truth or morality. Do not be led away by errors or personal desires!

· Fall/lose…stability means to fall away from Truth, which includes God’s percepts, call, and standards. This does not mean we lose our salvation. Rather, it refers to our weakness (John 6:37-40; 10:28-29; 17:2-24; Phil. 1:6; 1 Cor. 1:8; 9:1; 1 Thess. 5:23-24; 2 Thess. 3:32; 2 Tim. 1:12; 4:18). We are to be firm in our faith and not allow our desires or others to distract us from Christ. This reinforces the importance of sound doctrine and teaching (John 6:39; Phil. 1:6).

· Grow means to be steadfast in faith and in Christ. We do this by pursuing holy living through deepening our relationship and experiences with Christ. We are called to learn as much as we can about our Lord and His teaching and then apply it wholeheartedly into our lives. This is in contrast to the arrogance and pretentious knowledge and pseudo-growth of the false teachers and hypocrites who know little and apply none. Growing is an ongoing experience that should never stop until we are called home to heaven. It is not enough to know; we are also called to do. In conjunction, our persistence to know Him and His Word prevents false teachers from getting a hold on us or our church (2 Pet. 1:2-3)!

· Knowledge. The antidote to heresy is knowing the real truth, and we do this by going to God’s Word. We are called to pursue education and practice knowledge so we can learn and know more about God, live for His glory, and help one another.

· To him be glory means that because of the deity and supremacy of Christ as God and Lord, all that we do in our Christian lives is to be about glorifying Him. This ties into Peter’s opening statement in 1:1 (Col. 1:15-20; Rev. 1:5-6).

· Forever means “unto eternity.” Time is endless and glory, through all time past, present, and future belongs to Christ alone (Isa. 60:19-20).

In Acts 13, the Church in Antioch was in a dilemma about who to send to the mission fields¾to parts unknown and unclear. There were many gifted and qualified teachers to choose from, so they inquired of God who to send out. In their considerations, what was not pursued is as important as what was. They chose to send Paul and Barnabas. Their decision was authentically sought, as God was adored through worshiping, fasting, and prayer. This is “mission critical” for us to recognize the real work of the Holy Spirit. The results were from the Spirit's initiative and not from a planning or strategy session. The lesson for us today is that when leaders and churches worship God and not trends, God moves(1 Tim. 4:1-8, 14)! We are still called to plan, but God is to be first and foremost in our sights, and that starts with our humility (Col. 1:18; 1 Peter 5).

Humility was not a virtue in the pagan world of Peter’s day, just like it is not a virtue today. Humble people today get mocked and trampled by the media and society. They're called wimps by the world. This is the day of the macho, rugged individual who does not need anyone, and who steps on anyone who gets in the way. Humility was no virtue. Humility was for the weak and cowardly. Humility is what Christ wore as an apron of a servant to show how He came to serve (John 13:2-17). Our apron will keep our ministry, one another, and us clean, so put on the one-size-fits-all garment of humble service. Put on the apron of the slave. We should all be slaves in Christ if we are to be mature in Christ. We are called to tie humility on ourselves with a knot or a bow as a covering, so that it is tight and will not fall off¾an attitude that we are not too good to serve others!

So, clothe yourselves with an attitude that you are lowly, an attitude that you are not too good to serve, that you are not too great to stoop down to help another. And, by the way, this was the only humility the pagan world tolerated the involuntary humility of slavery. Therefore, Peter is saying you need to put on the garment of a slave and take on a voluntary humility, a subordinate mentality "first toward one another." With this essential attitude, we will be glorifying Him to keep our faith growing and in Him, thus preparing our church for now and our selves for His return.

God has given us a great promise to keep us in the faith: He is here and He is returning. Thus, we need to live our lives worthy in Him and not forget who and what He is and has done. If we have no accountability because we believe there is not anyone to whom we are accountable, we will engage in doing what we want; and that is sin. Many people in Peter’s time (as well as ours) did not believe there would be a judgment and therefore there were no personal responsibilities or obligations. This thinking produces relativism and our postmodern mindsets (nothing new here), and leads to immoral behaviors and a society in distress headed for ruin. Such thinking says we can do as we please; however, that will only bring us damnation at worst and missed opportunities at best. Why would we want to play these games?

Disgrace and shame take place when we only fear and honor one another; scruples and character come from when we fear and honor God (Prov. 3:5).

The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study):

7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God?

1. What are you hopeful for or looking forward to? What does it mean to live worthy in Christ?

2. How does it make you feel knowing that God is involved and that He indeed does intervene and care for you? How can this help you trust in Christ more? What would your life look like with this working more effectively?

4. How do you tempt God’s patience? What does it mean to your faith that God is patient with you more than you can fathom? That He saves you even though you tempt His patience all of the time?

5. Peter asked, what kind of people you ought to be; how would you respond to God saying this (by the way, He does)?

6. Growing is an ongoing experience that should never stop. Why is this true? Why would a Christian think otherwise?

7. How can you balance being curious with being hopeful so you do not diverge into obsession, impatience, or sensationalism regarding Christ’s Second Coming?

8. What does it mean to you to make the most of your life here and now? What would your life look like if you did?

9. What can you do now so your Christian life will be more about glorifying Him? How can this combat liberalism and false teachers?

10. When something happens which you do not understand, what can you do to grow from it? How about seeking the reason in prayer, asking God what you are to learn from it? How would this help you grow further and firmer in the faith?

11. What does it mean to be established in your faith? What can you do to keep your mind in Christ?

12. How can you make the most of what Christ has given? When will you do this? Now, how would you respond to make every effort? What are you going to do about becoming better in your faith in response to these questions from our Lord?