Session 9

Be Prepared

1 Peter 4:12-19

Memory Verse: 1 Peter 4:16

Believers can expect to face opposition for following Christ.

Much in this world surprises us when it should not.
Often, if we are simply paying attention or doing a little bit of sleuthing,
we can set reasonable expectations about what might happen in our near future.
We can see trends forming.
We can predict human behavior.
Not perfectly, but reasonably.

FIRST THOUGHTS

Children sometimes engage in name-calling.
Often, it’s not meant to be personal, they want to have things their way.
It’s a form of manipulation.
But children are not the only ones who play those games.
Believers can expect to face opposition for following Christ.
It may come in the form of verbal abuse-name-calling or ridicule and scorn.
We should realize that this is not an indication that our views are wrong but is a form of manipulation. (PSG, p. 82)

• How do you usually respond when someone opposes your ideas?
• Does your response change based on the severity and type of opposition?

ENGAGE

Context:

Call attention to 4:12-5:11 being the final major section of Peter’s first letter to the persecuted Asian Christians.

Transition:

Throughout his letter, Peter addressed the suffering the Christians faced resulting from opposition to their faith in Jesus Christ.
On each occasion Peter suggested ways they should respond.
First Peter 4:12-19 explains how persecution can be faced with joy and purpose for the sake of the gospel.