bevdan | St Luke's Frankston

Living Victoriously in Difficult Times
1 Peter 5:1-12

The Apostle Peter knew what it was to remain
faithful in difficult times. But, having denied
knowing Jesus three times shortly before the
crucifixion, he also knew the grief of not remaining
faithful in such times. So he was well qualified to
give the advice and encouragement that he did in
this letter, which he addressed to suffering
believers everywhere.

Whatever our suffering, Jesus has been there and
experienced such suffering before us; his ultimate
suffering on the cross was so that we might have
the eternal reward of salvation (1 Peter 1:3-6, and
1 Peter 5:10-11).

When we suffer, we can remember that Christ is
both: our hope in the midst of suffering, and our
example of how to endure suffering faithfully.

Sermon Reflection Questions

Read 1 Peter 5:1-12

This chapter begins by addressing “elders” (eg leaders, those of mature faith) (verse 1), and then “young men” (verse 5), before then addressing “all of you” (verse 5). To what extent are the instructions in verses 1-5 relevant for everyone?

In today’s message, verses 6-12 have been summarised by three “guide posts” – Be Humble (v5-6); Be Vigilant (v8-9); Be Hopeful (v10-12). How do these “B’s” encourage and/or challenge you in your life of faith? What encouragement do you receive from verse 7?

“When we suffer, we can remember that Christ is both a) our hope in the midst of suffering, and b) our example of how to endure suffering faithfully.” Which of these has more meaning for you at present?

How does keeping a gratitude diary resemble the guide posts mentioned in this message?

Have you used SOAP as a method of Bible reading and reflection? Give it a try! Take note of your responses as follows:

S = Scripture – Read a passage, even if only a few verses

O = Observation – What caught your attention in what you read? A word? A phrase?

A = Application – How does this speak to your life now? How can it inform or change the way you are living out your faith?

P = Prayer – Write a short prayer in response to your reflections above.

How could you encourage two people in their faith this week?

Spend some time worshipping our victorious Lord – in prayer, watching one or more of the youtube videos, singing your own song, or writing your own hymn of praise.