It’s week 5 of this By the Book course. Last week, you finished the books of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John and you read the first chapter of 1st Peter. The Scripture you read throughout these books of the Bible focused on how followers of Christ are called to live, which looks very different from the rest of the world. Discuss what you learned as you read these books of the Bible with your group and answer the questions below:
1. What particularly impacted you during your Bible study reading this week?
2. Read 1st John 2:3-6. Why is obedience critical for any follower of Christ according to this passage of Scripture?
3. What does the book of 2nd John teach about love?
4. What does it look like in our world today to follow John’s message of hospitality in 3rd John?
5. How are Christ followers called to live, according to 1st Peter 1 and why?
We saw in the Scripture that we read today as well as the Scripture we have read throughout this whole course that our call is to love the people around us. Who in your life do you find it difficult to love? Without naming names, share who that person is in your life (a friend, a relative, a coworker, etc.) with your group. Then, share one way that you can show them the love of Christ this week.
Read 1st Peter chapters 2-5 and 2nd Peter chapters 1-3,* one chapter for every day, using your Study Bible. Read the Bible study notes that correspond with the passage of Scripture you are reading. As you read, use your journal we provided for you to complete the SOAP method for each chapter of 1st Peter and 2nd Peter that you read.
*Before you dive into studying the book of 2nd Peter, take time to read the introduction to 2nd Peter in your Study Bible. As you read, answer the questions below.
1. Who is the author and audience of 2nd Peter?
2. What is the purpose of 2nd Peter?
3. What are some of the key themes of 2nd Peter?
End your time together in prayer. As you pray, thank God for the gift of His word and for the privilege we have of studying it. Ask Him to help each one of you continue to love others well, especially those whom you struggle to love. After all, He has shown such extravagant love to you.
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