Session 5
1 Peter 3:1-12
Memory Verse: 1 Peter 3:8-9
Submission all but defines Christian relationships,
particularly when it comes to relationships where one person holds power over another.
Relationships within the church and with unbelievers also shape the way Christ followers go about their lives.
With so many touchpoints to consider,
the issue becomes how to reflect the image of Christ in every context.
Peter’s answer was simple: act like Jesus.
An exasperated church member once exclaimed that church would be great if it wasn’t for the people!
Perhaps a husband or wife has felt that marriage would be great if it wasn’t for his or her spouse.
Both exclamations are irrational.
Both church and marriage involve relationships.
Believers must live out their faith in the context of relationships.
This requires that we learn how to resolve conflict and to deepen our relationships
so that we can live in the way God intended-for our good and for His glory. (PSG, p. 46)
Believers live out their faith in the context of relationships.
In a round-robin exercise, invite each adult to state one relationship they are in by identifying their role.
(Examples: father, mother, son, daughter, employee, supervisor, neighbor, coach, friend, and so forth)
Go around the group as many times as possible to illustrate the diversity and significance of relationships.
in chapter 2, Peter exhorted believers to live well among other believers and people in their community.
in chapter 3, he continued his instruction by focusing on marriages and other relationships.