-
Standing Strong in the Face of Persecution (1 Peter 4:7-19)
Standing strong in the face of persecution not only demonstrates the reality of our faith but also reflects the power of Christ’s victory over sin and death. By remaining steadfast and trusting in God’s sovereignty, as believers we can be a shining light in a dark world, showing the transformative power of the gospel. Continue reading
-
Living in Light of Eternity (1 Peter 3:13-4:6)
1 Peter 3:13-4:6 Big Idea Enduring suffering for doing good honors Christ, reminding us of His example and the eternal glory awaiting believers. Living in light of eternity helps us persevere with hope and faith, knowing that our present sufferings are temporary compared to the joy to come. Opening Thoughts In 2017 I was diagnosed Continue reading
-
Living Successfully Through Submission (1 Peter 2:13-3:12)
The text discusses biblical principles of submission in various contexts, including government, workplace, marriage, and relationships. It emphasizes following Christ’s example and demonstrating sacrificial love. Continue reading
-
Living Stones in a World of Rejection (1 Peter 2:1-12)
1 Peter 2:1-12 Opening Thoughts The original recipients of Peter’s letter came from a secular/pagan culture. Their former lives had been filled with some of the grossest immorality and pagan worship. That all changed when they responded positively to the gospel and believed in Christ. Their newfound faith alienated them from their neighbors. They found Continue reading
-
Living as Strangers in Light of Christ’s Sacrifice (1 Peter 1:1-25)
Opening Thoughts Our culture is becoming more and more secular. Quickly disappearing are the Judeo-Christian beliefs that were at the heart of the founding of our country. As the culture becomes more secular it is looking more like the culture to which Peter is writing. True believers today are facing many of the same trials Continue reading
-
Living Hope for Difficult Days (1 Peter 1:1-12)
Amidst suffering, Christians can find lasting hope in the salvation and inheritance secured for them by Christ, leading to endurance, faith, and the revelation of God’s glory. Continue reading
-
Walking to Battle (Ephesians 6:10-24)
Ephesians 6:10-24 First Thoughts The Bible is full of people who met challenges with courage and confidence. Elijah faced the prophets of Baal. David stood his ground in front of Goliath. Esther risked death to reveal Haman’s plot. Peter defied the order to stop preaching the gospel. Each of these people put their confidence in Continue reading
-
Walking as Family (Ephesians 5:22-6:4)
Ephesians 5:22-6:4 First Thoughts Like Jewish society, Greco-Roman political leaders understood the household to be the basic building block of the state. Their philosophers wrote heavily about the relationships of authority and subordination in the home. They believed that order in the home created an ordered society. The Roman Empire was a paternal society, with Continue reading
-
Walk Wisely ( Ephesians 5:15-21)
Ephesians 5:15-21 Opening Thoughts Who or what do you consult when planning a trip? If you were traveling in an unknown remote area and could select only one form of navigational help, which would you choose? Would you prefer a map, a GPS device, or an experienced guide who had frequently traveled that area and Continue reading
-
Walking in Love (Ephesians 5:1-14)
Ephesians 5:1-14 FIRST THOUGHTS Who has been a great example for you? Why? Gait is a word that only athletes or medical specialists use very often. It refers to the way a person walks—the movement of a person’s limbs while in motion. When there is an abnormality in a person’s gait, it can potentially cause Continue reading
CrossSites Bible Study 