1 Peter Bible Study Notes- Chapter 5

Chapter 5

 

-Peter concludes the short letter of exhortation and declaration of the true grace of God (1 Peter 5:12) by speaking to directly to the elders of the church. As a fellow elder, witness of Christ’s sufferings, and future partaker in His glory, Peter instructs to “shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion (force, pressure, coercion, obligation), but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain (a hoarder, selfish), but eagerly; not domineering (becoming a master) over those in your charge, but being examples (role models) to the flock (1 Peter 5:2-3).” In doing this, when the Chief Shepherd, who is Jesus Christ, appears, the leaders will receive the unfading crown of glory for righteous oversight in the House and Family of God (1 Peter 5:4). *Application* Oversight in the church must be handled correctly with humility and righteousness. Not many should become teachers because they will incur a stricter judgment in their leading of others (James 3:1). To handle the church of the Living God, these principles must be followed with devotion and introspection. This will ensure fruitful ministry for you and those you lead. Grow into these virtues and become the leader God wants you to be.

-Now Peter addresses younger members of the Body of Christ. They are to be subject to their elders with humility, dignity, and respect for “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5).” The promise is given that if we humble ourselves under the mighty Hand of God that He will exalt us at the proper time (1 Peter 5:6). We can cast all of our anxieties (worries, fears, cares, apprehension) onto Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). In life, we need to walk circumspectly (Ephesians 5:15) as sober-minded and watchful because our enemy, the devil, is prowling around like a roaring (angry) lion, seeking someone to devour. We are to resist him being firm in our faith and knowing that our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world are experiencing the same kinds of suffering throughout the world. After we have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called us to His eternal glory in Christ, will “restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish” us in His dominion (1 Peter 5:8-11). *Application* Our humility in the process of sanctification is paramount. Endurance is also very key as we see in this passage. When God comes through, and He always will if you remain faithful, you will see the following happen as a promise by the Lord Himself. You will be restored, which means you have new hope in the proper order of things. You will be confirmed, which means you will be deep-rooted and complete in authority. You will be strengthened, which means you are no longer weak and helpless. With Christ at your side and you are more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37) and have power in the spiritual realm (Ephesians 3:20). You will finally be established, which means you have the enduring qualities with a strong foundation. God intends for us to be strong in Him by the power of His might (Ephesians 6:10). He is our rescue, so keep looking to Him in times of distress and suffering. This too shall pass!

 

Verse to Memorize: 1 Peter 5:6-8, 10

1 Peter Bible Study Notes- Chapter 4

Chapter 4

 

-Peter tells us to arm ourselves with the same way of thinking as Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16) with regards to His attitude toward suffering in the flesh according to the Lord’s will. This suffering allows us to cease from sin and enables us to live our lives no longer in the human passions of sensuality, sexual immorality, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry (1 Peter 4:1-3). The people of the world are surprised when you do not join them in this debauchery and they make fun of you for it; however, they will give an account to the Almighty Judge for their actions (1 Peter 4:4-5). This is why the gospel is preached, even to those who are dead, so that they may live in the spirit in the same manner God does, even though the flesh will inevitably be judged (1 Peter 4:6). This verse can be interpreted a couple of different ways. One view has been to say that Christ has preached in the underworld, probably during His time of death before the resurrection. The other view, and the one I prefer, is simply that we are dead in our trespasses and sin until we hear the gospel and receive the new-spiritual birth that only Christ can give. This compliments the rest of Scripture more accurately in my opinion. We are all going to be judged in the physical because of sin, which produces physical death. We are dead spiritually as well until we receive the Spirit of God into our lives through Jesus Christ’s work on the cross (1 Corinthians 15:22). When we receive His new life, we awake spiritually speaking as a new creation destined for glory (2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 6:15). *Application* The new life in Christ frees us from the enticements of this world. When we receive Christ, He gives us a new heart, a new mind, and a new will. Our desire, in Him, is to follow His ways and do the same things He did by the Holy Spirit that indwells us. This includes the endurance in suffering, which Peter expounds upon here, for the believers who were going through trial and tribulation. These are normal aspects of the Christian life and should be embraced because they draw us closer to God in dependence and help us cease from sin. Amen!

-Since the end of all things is at hand, we are instructed to be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of praying fervently unto the Lord (1 Peter 4:7). Above all, earnest love is to be demonstrated, which covers a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). Christians should show hospitality without grumbling (1 Peter 4:9). As each of us has received a spiritual gift according to God’s varied grace, we should employ them for the building up of the body of Christ, which is the church. This gives Jesus His proper glory and dominion (1 Peter 4:10-11). *Application* This is good Christian instruction with some time honored virtues and themes. When we display these qualities, we will be growing in Him and the world will notice the difference Christ makes in us (2 Peter 1:4-11).

-Peter returns quickly to the theme of suffering as believers in Christ Jesus. He says, through the Holy Spirit, not to be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you for the purpose of testing (1 Peter 4:12). We are to rejoice and be glad in these times of testing because it allows for Christ’s glory to be revealed over and over again (1 Peter 4:13). Insults and persecutions for the Name of Christ bless us because the Spirit of God rests upon those enduring that condition (1 Peter 4:14). Suffering as a wrongdoer is another scenario and is not recommended (1 Peter 4:15), but there is no shame is suffering as a Christian for the right reasons and we should give God glory (1 Peter 4:16). Judgment begins at the household of God and refines us for His Kingdom so that we will not be judged along with the world of unbelievers. Because of this we can entrust our souls to a faithful Creator while continuing to do good with perseverance (1 Peter 4:17-19). *Application* There is a reason for all the tough times and things you go through as a believer who is totally yielded to God. When we go through trials, it is a time of introspection and evaluation. Sometimes we need to repent of sins and allow the Lord’s discipline and refining work in us to purify. This is good and profitable for all. At other times we can rejoice that despite our virtuous life, God has allowed us to partake of the sufferings of the Savior (Philippians 3:10). This conforms us to His image more and more and makes us a better reflection of Him to this lost world. Never is it easy, but it is rewarding (1 Peter 5:10). Rejoice in suffering because God is at work in it to bring about a better you for His glory!

 

Verse to Memorize: 1 Peter 4:9-10, 12, 19

1 Peter Bible Study Notes- Chapter 3

Chapter 3

 

-Peter begins this chapter with some instructions for wives and husbands. Wives are to be subject to their husbands in obedience, respectful, and display pure conduct with inside beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit verses external adornments. This is precious in God’s sight. Women are to do good and not be fearful of anything that is frightening (1 Peter 3:1-6). Husbands are to live with their wives in an understanding manner, showing them honor because they are a weaker vessel and co-heirs with their husbands of the grace of life. Prayers can be hindered if the husband and wife relationship is not what it should be in these regards (1 Peter 3:7). *Application* Our conduct in marital relationships is important as we see here in the Scripture. Abiding by these principles will set us up for the God honoring and blessed family relationship that the Holy One smiles upon. Do your best to be filled with His Spirit and love your spouse with an unadulterated and pure heart.

-All should have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind (1 Peter 3:8). We are not to repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but instead bless others as to the calling that we were given in Christ so that we may obtain a blessing. Psalm 34:12-16 is quoted for those desiring to see good days having love of life. We are to turn from evil and do good with our mouths in total truth. When we do this, the Lord’s eyes are upon us for blessing and His ears are open to our prayers. His face is against those who do evil though (1 Peter 3:10-12). Be zealous for good and suffer for righteousness’ sake and you will be blessed (1 Peter 3:13-14). There may be times of suffering and tribulation, but do not fear or be troubled; on the other hand, “in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience (1 Peter 3:15-16). When we are slandered and reviled for goodness sake with the right heart attitude, we shame those who persecute. It is better to suffer for doing good, if it is the Lord’s will, than to do evil (1 Peter 3:17). Christ also suffered for humanity’s sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order that He might bring us to God being put to death in the flesh but being made alive in the Spirit freeing the captives (1 Peter 3:18-19). Our baptism in Him washes us to a renewed good conscience because of His resurrection power (1 Peter 3:20-22). *Application* Our hearts, minds, and lives must be stayed on Christ and His righteousness. God is our source and gives us the strength we will need to encounter everything in this life. Honor Him no matter what and He will see you through every situation.

 

Verse to Memorize: 1 Peter 3:15

1 Peter Bible Study Notes- Chapter 2

Chapter 2

 

-This chapter explains what should happen in the believer’s life once the good news is preached to us and has been received in faith. When we are saved, we should put away all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander (study each of these vices individually for more insight, 1 Peter 2:1). Instead, like newborn babes, long for the pure spiritual milk (The Word of God, the receiving of His Holy Spirit to illuminate and grow you) and taste it, which will lead to your sanctification in this great salvation (1 Peter 2:2-3).

-We are “living stones” being built up in a spiritual house (Not like the static Temple where God manifested His presence, but now mobile and filled on the go, Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15, 1 Peter 4-5). This spiritual house is a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and God’s own possession for the purpose of proclaiming His excellencies into marvelous light out of darkness (1 Peter 2:9). This is all based on Jesus Christ, our Cornerstone who will not put us to shame and allows us to receive mercy (1 Peter 2:6-10). So this Rock, which is the Messiah, was rejected by the religious becoming a Stone of stumbling and a Rock of offense (1 Peter 2:8), but He has indwelt us by His Spirit as the New Covenant Temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19, 2 Corinthians 6:16). *Application* We have God IN us and should be His reflection to this lost and dying world that is separated from His grace and mercy. It is because of this great and wonderful salvation that Christ bestows on us that we can be agents and ambassadors of the most High with His Law in our hearts rather than stone tablets. Be Living Stones!!!

-Because we are living stones with Christ inside, we have the ability to resist the passions of the flesh, which are all around in this fallen world. We are sojourners and exiles here keeping honorable conduct because of who we are as believers, which gives God His ultimate glory (a changed life). Our good deeds are a byproduct of the living hope that is within us (1 Peter 2:11-12). *Application* Our forbearing spirit will be observed by all. Let it be one of love and total devotion to Christ, who lives in you. Display His goodness to a world that needs positive change from darkness to light.

-Human institutions are dealt with as opportunities for us as believers to demonstrate our testimonies as living stones or servants of God. We are to honor everyone, love the brotherhood, fear God, and honor the chief ruler of the land with all respect. We are to endure when suffering unjustly as a means of showing grace to the lost. This is part of our calling and we are encouraged to embrace it just as Jesus did when He sojourned the earth. “When He was reviled, He did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but continued entrusting Himself to Him who judges justly. He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds you have been healed (1 Peter 2:13-24).” *Application* The world will be drawn to the Savior by our acts of love and forgiveness in the face of persecution. Give grace and you will receive it back.

-While we were straying away, lost like sheep, God being the Good Shepherd that He is and Overseer of our souls cared for us. Therefore, because of His great love and sacrifice we are to return to Him to gain reunification and redemption (1 Peter 2:25). *Application* Aren’t you glad God came after us and cared enough to come down to our level to rescue the depraved and despondent? His grace is simply amazing and astounding. No words could ever express the greatness of His unfailing love!!!!

 

Verse to Memorize: 1 Peter 2:3

1 Peter Bible Study Notes- Chapter 1

Chapter 1

 

-Peter is writing to those dispersed in the various Mediterranean regions as he addresses them with multiplied grace and peace during their time of struggle and persecution (1Peter 1:1-2). He discusses the foreknowledge of God from the beginning to assure them that the Sovereign has His plan for a living hope to: 1) sanctify, 2) produce obedience, and 3) cleanse with His blood (1 Peter 1:2-3). This hope is produced by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and He alone ensures an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading (1 Peter 1:3-5). His power guards us through faith for an awesome salvation in the last time, which gives everyone who trusts in Him reason for rejoicing even though for a temporary time, in the now, there will be necessary grief caused by various trials (1 Peter 1:5-6). These tests reveal the genuineness (or proof) of one’s faith. Faith is defined as being more precious than gold that perishes, although it is tested by fire, it will result in the believer salvation, honor, and glory in praise at the revelation of Jesus Christ when He comes (1 Peter 1:7-9). *Application* This section echoes James’ initial plea in the book before in the Cannon of Scripture. We will inevitably face trials and tribulations, and we are to count all of these times of testing with complete joy and endurance (James 1:2-4). Without Christ we are nothing and most to be pitied in this life, but with Him we are everything for His eternal Kingdom (1 Corinthians 15:19-20)!

-Salvation continues to be a dominant theme now as the chapter progresses. The prophets made careful inquiry into this matter being diligent to search out every intricate detail of Christ’s passion (suffering) and the subsequent glories. It was their service to these ancient believers and now to us in modern times (1 Peter 1:10-12). *Application* We miss much if we do not go through the Old Testament with a fine tooth comb of study and observation. The message of Christ is revealed from the earliest of times and is exciting to ponder. The Lord had His plans for mankind’s salvation all along!

-A preparation for ACTION is encouraged along with being sober-minded as we set our hope fully on God’s grace revealed in Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:13). As obedient children we are not to be conformed to the passions of our former ignorance because He who called us is holy; therefore, we are to be holy in imitating Him (1 Peter 1:14-16). Because we have been purchased by Christ’s blood in His impartial perfection known from the foundation of the world, we are instructed to conduct ourselves with fear (reverence, awe) throughout the time of our exile on this earth (1 Peter 1:17-20). Our faith and hope is in God (1 Peter 1:21). This initiates love in our obedience to the truth from a pure heart as we are “born again” of imperishable seed through the living and abiding Word of God (1 Peter 1:3, 22-23). The Word of the Lord that remains forever is the good news that is preached to us (1 Peter 1:25)! *Application* We can take comfort in these words and apply them to our fullness of joy in the great anticipation of our redemption in Christ Jesus. While there may be intense times of suffering and trial in this life, our eyes are continually focused on the future God has for us in His grace, mercy, and love. The Lord is our joy set before us (Hebrews 12:2)!

 

Verses to Memorize: 1 Peter 1:6-7

 

1 Peter Bible Study Notes- Overview

Overview of 1 Peter for New Testament Reading

 

 

            Alienated, torn apart, devastated, and overwhelmed— these feelings that can wash over us when something bad happens in our lives. Suffering takes many forms—physical abuse, debilitating disease, social ostracism, intense persecution for doing the right thing. The pain and anguish are the enemy’s attempts to turn us back from the Lord, to give up, to give in and surrender to this world’s ways.

            Many followers of Christ in the first century no doubt had these feelings of anguish and suffering as they were abused and persecuted for believing in and obeying Jesus Christ, the risen Savior. At the hands of Jewish brothers they were tormented and ostracized to the point of fleeing for their very existence on the earth. They were scattered like nomads without homes or property. As they went forth with the eternal hope but no earthly possessions they found that the Gentile world was just as cruel and unbelieving, hence persecution followed them wherever they went, but also the joy of Christ and eternal salvation. They would not bow the knee to Caesar.

            Peter knew all too well this torment as he wrote his letter of encouragement to these suffering Christians around the years of 62-64 AD. He probably wrote from Rome as the great persecution under Emperor Nero began, which would soon take Peter’s earthly life from him. Tradition holds that he was crucified upside down in Rome for His Savior. He had previously been beaten and jailed, threatened often with attacks from those opposed to Christ and His message. But, nothing on this earth could shake the faith of this great man of God who was one of Jesus’ closest disciples during His earthly ministry.

            So Peter offers comfort, hope, and abiding joy through Christ as he urged continued loyalty to the Lord even in desperate times.

 

Major Themes:

 

Salvation- This gracious gift of God is emphasized over and over in the letter. God chose us out of His great love and Jesus is clearly marked as the One who died to pay the penalty of our sin, was buried and resurrected (made alive) for our benefit. The Holy Spirit cleanses us from sin through the blood of Christ’s work when we believe. Eternal life is the wonderful gift for those who trust in the Savior. Our safety and security are in God. Our hope is fixed completely on Him (1 Peter 1:13). This should motivate us to greater commitment and Christian fever.

 

Persecution- We should expect ridicule, rejection, and suffering when we are in Christ. Persecution makes us stronger because it refines our faith. We can face persecution victoriously, as Christ did, if we rely on Him in distress. Don’t let persecution terrify you and hold you back. Eternal life in Christ is given to us, which instills confidence, patience, and hope to stand firm as good soldiers of the cross.

 

God’s Family- We have a special privilege as God’s chosen people adopted into His eternal family. This community has Christ as its founder and foundation. Everyone in this family is related—brothers and sisters, loved equally by God. We must accept the challenge to live differently from the society around us in this brotherhood of love.

 

Family Life- Peter encouraged the wives of unbelievers to submit to their husbands’ authority as a means of winning them to Christ. He urged husbands to honor their wives and lead as Christ leads the church. He urged all family members to treat others with sympathy, love, compassion, and humility.

 

Judgment- God will judge everyone with perfect justice. We will all face God one day. He will punish evildoers and those who persecute God’s people. Those who love Him will be rewarded with life forever in His presence. Because all are accountable to God, we can leave judgment of others to Him. We must not hate or resent those who persecute us. We should realize that we will be held responsible for how we live each day.

 

 

Structure:

 

Peter begins by thanking God for salvation (1:2-6). He explains to his readers that trials will refine their faith (1:7-9). They should believe is spite of their circumstances; for many in past ages believed in God’s plan of salvation, even the prophets of old who wrote about it but didn’t understand it completely. But now salvation has been revealed in Christ Jesus (1:10-13).

In response to such a great salvation, Peter commands them to live holy lives (1:14-16), to reverently fear and trust God (1:17-21), to be honest and loving (2:1-3), and to become like Christ (2:1-3).

Jesus Christ is the “living cornerstone” upon whom the church is to be built (2:4, 6), but is also the stone that was rejected, causing those who are disobedient to stumble and fall (2:7-8). But the church, built upon this stone, is to be God’s holy priesthood (2:9-10).

Next, Peter explains how believers should live during difficult times (2:11-4:11). Christians should live above reproach (2:12-17), imitating Christ in all their social roles—masters and servants, husbands and wives, church members and neighbors (2:18-3:17). Christ should be our model for obedience to God in the midst of great suffering (3:18-4:11).

Peter then outlines the right attitude to have about persecution: Expect it (4:12), be thankful for the privilege to suffer for Christ (4:13-18), and trust God for deliverance (4:19).

Next, Peter gives some special instructions: Elders should care for God’s flock (5:1-4), young men should be submissive to those who are older (5:5-6), and everyone should trust God and resist Satan (5:7-11). Peter concludes by introducing Silas and by sending personal greetings, possibly from the church in Rome, and from Mark (5:12-14).

 

 

Key Verse:

 

1 Peter 1:7 that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

 

*Notes from this overview were aided by:

 

New American Standard Bible: Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Mich.: 1995, pgs. 2196-2197.