Sermon Based Curriculum
Sermon Date: April 17, 2011
Sermon Title: Why We Fight
Sermon Text: 1 Peter 5
Small Group Text: 1 Peter 5:1-11
Introduction
Discussion
Individuals in the Greco-Roman culture of Peter's day were defined by socio-economic status, age and gender. People were acutely aware of their rank and position in the social order. Superiors lorded it over inferiors. By contrast, Peter introduced a new ethic: one of service and humility after the example of Jesus Christ (John 13:3-16). Think about a time when you’ve had a position of power or authority and reached down to elevate the opinions or needs of those under you. What was the circumstance? And what were the results? Think of a time when someone in a position of authority elevated your opinion or needs to a level of importance. What was the circumstance? And what were the results? Read 1 Peter 5:1-11 1. Peter, a pillar of leadership in the early church, humbly put himself in the same category of lesser leaders when he referred to himself as a “fellow-elder” (1 Peter 5:1). What can we learn from Peter’s attitude of submission in his choice of words in verse 1? 2. In 1 Peter 5:2-3, what is one, single word that can encapsulate the traits of a good church leader? 3. Under whom should all Christians exercise humble submission (1 Peter 5:6-7)? What would be the advantage(s) of this act of humility? 4. Why do you suppose God "opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble?" 5. “Casting all your anxieties on God” doesn't allow you to be lazy. While you are not to be worried or anxious, what does Peter want you to do instead (1 Peter 5:8-9)? 6. As you stand firm and resist the devil, certain facts about God’s promises toward you can be encouraging. What promises does "the God of all grace" make to the humble, faithful Christians (1 Peter 5:10)?
Application
1. Why do you think “humble submission” is so difficult for you and people in general. 2. If casting our cares upon God helps us become more humble, what “care” or anxiety do you need to “cast” upon (give over to) God today? •
How might you begin to unload this care or anxiety onto Him?
•
This is probably not a “one-time” act. Rather, it would be a daily
surrender to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. How will you practice this level of trust on a daily basis? 3. In what way(s) can you be a better example of a caring leader to those for whom you are responsible? 4. Think of one or two practical ways in which you could "clothe" yourself with humility toward another person this week—someone toward whom you have difficulty feeling humble.
Sermon-Based Curriculum