SERMON AUDIO UNAVAILABLE

Group Discussion Starters – 1 Peter 5:1-11
Have two or three people share reading to the group 1 Peter 5:1-11.

We talked earlier in the study on the different areas or “spheres” of life in which we find ourselves living as Christians. Peter has touched on many of them specifically instructing us as Christians on how we should behave in our family, church, work, and government. God has provided us with clear pictures of Jesus in each of these areas. Our relationship with Him is portrayed as a marriage, Jesus as bridegroom. The church as a flock, Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Jesus as the Master (Boss) who’s burden is easy. And Jesus as King above all kings. One other sphere of our life is education, where Jesus takes His title as “Teacher.”

Take a moment to discuss what Jesus means to you in all these different ways.

Verse 6 gives the command “humble yourselves”, verse 7 gives the action that goes with the command. What is the connection between our humility and giving our cares to God?

Peter speaks of our adversary. Is he passive? Does Peter consider him dangerous to “sheep”. What does Peter say we should do in regard to our adversary? (verses 8-9) Have a few people look up Ephesians 6:18, Matthew 26:41, and James 4:7 for further insight.

As we approach Easter, let’s finish off with a final reflection on Jesus as our Good Shepherd. Read Luke 15:1-7 then John 10:7-18.

Jesus not only leads and guides His sheep, but He actively seeks them out. Share a story from your own life, when you have been the wandering sheep, at risk to the roaring lion and Jesus sought you out.

Jesus says that he is not only the Shepherd of the sheep, but the Door to the sheep pen. No one becomes a part of His flock except through Him. Discuss what that means and settle in your heart that you are truly a part of His flock.