Bible Study | 1 Peter 4:12-19
COVENANT HOPE CHURCH
| 27 APRIL 2026
OBSERVATION
What does it say?
- What metaphor does Peter use in 1 Peter 4:12 to describe suffering? and what does he tell them not to feel about it?
- Why should believers not be surprised by suffering? And what should be the attitude when enduring suffering? (1 Peter 4:13)
- What is the reason for the blessing mentioned in 1 Peter 4:14? What does this blessing consist of?
- Observe the contrast in 1 Peter 4:15-16. List the reason for suffering mentioned in V:15? (suffering in sin vs suffering as a Christian)
- What are the instructions given to those who suffer as a Christian? (1 Peter 4:16)
- What should be the action of a Christian who is going through suffering? Why should a Christian not be ashamed of suffering? (1 Peter 4:16)
- Where does Peter say judgment must begin (v. 17)? (1 Peter 4:17)
- Which Old testament passage does Peter quote from in 1 Peter 4:18?
- Observe the title given to God in this passage?
- In V:19, what two specific things are those who suffer according to God’s will told to do? (1 Peter 4:19)
INTERPRETATION
What does it mean?
- What does it mean to "share Christ’s sufferings" (v. 13)? Why is “to share Christ’s sufferings” something to rejoice in? (1 Peter 4:13)
- Consider why Peter says that joy will increase when Christ’s glory is revealed? (1 Peter 4:13)
- What does it mean to be insulted for the name of Christ? How should this be an encouragement to us? (1 Peter 4:14-16)
- What does it mean for the Spirit of Glory & of God to rest upon those who are insulted in the name of Christ? (1 Peter 4:14)
- Why do you think Peter groups meddlers in the same list as murderers and thieves (v.15)? (1 Peter 4:15, Ref: 1 Th. 4:11-12)
- What is the judgment that begins at the house of God (v. 17)? Is this the same as the end of those who do not obey the gospel? (1 Peter 4:17)
- How does the knowledge of God’s judgement affect how a Christian perceives suffering? (1 Peter 4:17-18)
- What does it mean to be scarcely saved? (1 Peter 4:18)
- What does the title Faithful Creator (v. 19) imply about God’s ability to handle our lives during suffering? (1 Peter 4:19)
- How does 1 Peter 4:19 summarize the message of 1 Peter?
APPLICATION
What will I do?
- How does this passage challenge or confirm our understanding of suffering as a Christian?
- Is there some attitude we need to change about trials and testing as a follower of Christ?
- What are some of the practical steps we can take based on this passage when we face trials?
- Pray for God’s grace when we go through suffering and that we would glorify God in it?

