Bible Study | 1 Peter 4:12-19

OBSERVATION

What does it say?

    1. What metaphor does Peter use in 1 Peter 4:12 to describe suffering? and what does he tell them not to feel about it?
    2. Why should believers not be surprised by suffering? And what should be the attitude when enduring suffering? (1 Peter 4:13)
    3. What is the reason for the blessing mentioned in 1 Peter 4:14? What does this blessing consist of?
    4. 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)
    5. What are the instructions given to those who suffer as a Christian? (1 Peter 4:16)
    6. 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)
    7. Where does Peter say judgment must begin (v. 17)? (1 Peter 4:17)
    8. Which Old testament passage does Peter quote from in 1 Peter 4:18?
    9. Observe the title given to God in this passage?
    10. 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?

    1. 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)
    2. Consider why Peter says that joy will increase when Christ’s glory is revealed? (1 Peter 4:13)
    3. 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)
    4. 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)
    5. 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)
    6. 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)
    7. How does the knowledge of God’s judgement affect how a Christian perceives suffering? (1 Peter 4:17-18)
    8. What does it mean to be scarcely saved? (1 Peter 4:18)
    9. What does the title Faithful Creator (v. 19) imply about God’s ability to handle our lives during suffering? (1 Peter 4:19)
    10. How does 1 Peter 4:19 summarize the message of 1 Peter?

APPLICATION

What will I do?

    1. How does this passage challenge or confirm our understanding of suffering as a Christian?
    2. Is there some attitude we need to change about trials and testing as a follower of Christ?
    3. What are some of the practical steps we can take based on this passage when we face trials? 
    4. Pray for God’s grace when we go through suffering and that we would glorify God in it?