Due to the Christmas and New Year holidays I will be taking a break from providing LifeWay's Explore the Bible additional teaching ideas. I pray that Christ will be central to all your activities during this time and that God will bless you with quality family time and opportunities to share the good news of Jesus Christ.

I will be back providing helps for the Sunday, January 8 study.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

John

 
Do you remember when a handshake was as good as a written contract? I remember seeing my dad shaking hands with people to seal an agreement. He knew that his handshake stood for something, and he would strive to live by that agreement no matter what. We see this example in LifeWay's Explore the Bible Study: Commitment Kept.

The study covers Joshua's and the Israelites' commitment to keeping a covenant they had made with the Gibeonites. The narrative includes one of the most amazing miracles in the Old Testament. The following video link gives some information that you will find helpful in leading the discussion regarding this miracle.

 Do you believe that God gives His people victory when they trust Him and obey His commands? If you believe this, then obedience comes easy. If you don't, then it is difficult to experience the work of God in your life. LifeWay's Explore the Bible Study: Conquest, looks at the importance of obedience this week as we continue our study of the book of Joshua.

Here are some suggestions and discussion questions you might want to use to help you communicate the truths found in Joshua 6:1-25 regarding obedience. Enjoy!

LOOK UP: Getting focused on the text.
Illustration: Has anyone seen the movie, Hacksaw Ridge? It is based on the true story of Desmond Doss. As a young Christian boy he had almost killed his abusive dad with a handgun and, as a result, had made a commitment to the Lord not to ever carry a gun again.

When WWII began he desired to help his country by becoming a medic in the Army. He entered the army with the understand that he would not have to carry a gun. After facing difficult challenges to his commitment during basic training he was finally able to pursue being a medic. Later he went on to save countless lives during Pacific battles.

Toward the end of the war, the US was pinned between the sea and one of the tallest hills on the island of Okinawa which was occupied by the Japanese military. The US knew the hill had to be taken, but it was costing an unfathomable number of casualties. In midst of one attempt to take the hill, a wounded Desmond rescued 75 wounded soldiers and lowered them by rope down the steep cliffs. Not once did he compromise his personal commitment to God to not take up a gun. Desmond was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic efforts.

Ask: While we may not agree with Desmond’s commitment, he viewed it as a commitment to God that had to be kept; yet he still wanted to do his part in defending our country. Had you been Desmond, would you have been tempted to compromise?

Introduce: There was another group that had to choose to follow the commitment they had made to follow the Lord’s commands. They were looking back at the Jordan while staring at a large fortified city, Jericho.

Transition: Today we will focus on what took place with the Israelites upon entering the Promised Land. It put the Jordan River behind them and the challenge of fulfilling God’s promises in front of them. They probably stared at the massive walls of Jericho and had to remind themselves of God’s promises to them and to Joshua from chapter 1 - “You will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Direct: As the following verses are read, observe how the Israelites responded to Joshua’s commands.

LOOK IN: Unpacking the text.

Joshua 6:6-14

• Does the passage indicate that there were any questions or complaints? (No)
• What does this indicate about the maturity of the Israelites' faith compared to previous times they had been asked to obey God?
• Do you feel as if your faith in Christ has matured to the point that you are willing to obey Him without complaining or fear? 
• Does obedience always require patience? Explain.
• If God instructed our church to do something that was totally radical compared to the norm, do you suppose we would respond as the Israelites did? (Why or why not?)
• The ark of the Lord contained the Ten Commandments and the law for the people. What was the significance of taking the ark of the Lord into battle?
• Read: Ephesians 6:11-17.  What parallels regarding the ark of the Lord can we draw from this passage as it relates to believers? 

Transition: The people were obedient by waiting and not complaining or questioning. They had done what God commanded for six days. Now God would call for them to march one more day, this time in even more unconventional ways.

Direct: Listen as Joshua 6:15-19 is read and identify all the instructions Joshua gives the people.

Joshua 6:15-19

Identify: What were the instructions given to the people?

• March around the city seven times. - The number seven, used no fewer than fourteen times in this chapter, is the number of divine perfection or completeness. We have seven priests, seven trumpets, seven days, and seven trips around the wall on the seventh day. The number seems to relate to the judgment; seven priests bearing seven trumpets for seven days indicates that the judgment on Jericho would be complete. - Holman Old Testament Commentary – Joshua
• The priests were to blow the trumpets. - These were no ordinary trumpets but rather jubilee trumpets, according to the Hebrew text used in connection with Israel's feasts to proclaim the presence of God (See Numbers 10:10). The trumpets also heralded the new age of God's kingdom. Even today, the central feature of the Jewish Rosh Hashanah (New Year) services is the sound of the ram's horn trumpet. 
• The people were to shout. - What do you suppose they shouted? 
• Spare Rahab and her family. - Why did God spare Rahab? | Read: Joshua 2:1; Joshua 2:9-14; Hebrews 11:31; James 2:25 – Rahab had protected the two spies sent to Jericho because of what she had heard about the Israelites and their God. This was attributed to her as faith. | Read: Matthew 1:5-6 – She is in the lineage of Jesus’ genealogy.
• Don’t keep anything other than the items set aside for the Lord’s treasury. - Why did God not allow the soldiers to have their “spoils of the war”? What was He trying to teach the Israelites? How was He trying to protect the Israelites? (God was showing that the victory was not for the soldiers to have the spoils of the war; rather, the victory was His. It was a testimony to the fact that the soldiers were not only fighting for God but also fought with Him on their side. He was protecting them from the influences of the pagan society of Jericho by not allowing them to have any interaction with anyone or anything from that society.)

Discuss: We all know that God could have just spoken the word and Jericho could have been vaporized, even years earlier.

• Why did He take this approach with the Israelites? Was it to test the Israelites' willingness to obey?
• What would have happened if all of Jericho had responded as Rahab did? What if the people of Jericho had run out on day seven and said, "Please don't destroy us; have mercy on us; we repent of our sins and we believe in your God!"? Would God have relented? 

Explain: While we know this was not the case we must assume that, because of God’s grace and mercy, He would have relented. We know He did for Rahab. She had heard everything the others in Jericho had heard; yet she embraced Israel and God. We also know that God relented in the case of Nineveh, and He would have for Sodom and Gomorrah. Therefore, we can assume God’s grace would have been extended to Jericho.

Discuss: When people say that God was cruel and mean for destroying Jericho, how could they explain the grace He offered to the city prior to destruction?

Read: 1 Peter 3:9 - Ask: How could this help explain to someone who only see’s God’s judgement as cruel and offensive?

Explain: He did for Rahab, and he did for Nineveh, and he would have for Sodom and Gomorrah. We have every reason to believe that he would have done the same for Jericho. We read in 2 Peter 3:9, "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." – Holman Old Testament Commentary – Joshua

Consider: The seven days of marching, the sounds of the trumpets, and the shouts of the people could have been a call to repentance as well as a warning of impending judgement. Sadly, the people of Jericho never responded.

• Consider how many times has God marched around you waiting for you to repent and seek his forgiveness and mercy? He is patient but we must all remember that the seventh day eventually comes.

Transition:  We must turn our attention now back to the obedience of the Israelites. Because of their obedience, they are now going to see a demonstration of God’s hand at work.

Joshua 6:20-25

Discuss: Had you been one of the Israelites on that day, what kind of feelings would you have been experiencing? How would your faith have been strengthened?

Explain: Verse 20 states that the Israelites charged straight in and took the city. There was no delay in their obedience because everything had been done as God had said. There was no reason for them to delay.

Ask: How does obedience demonstrate what we really believe? Can we have genuine belief or faith without obedience? Explain. (PSG, p. 29)
 
LOOK OUT: Responding to the text.

• Emphasize: The chapter ends on a glorious note: So the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout the land. It was not because he fought the battle of Jericho as the old spiritual indicates but because God fought it. It was not because he designed a great battle plan but because he followed God's strategy. Joshua and the Israelites learned some great lessons that day. God wanted their faith, and if they trusted him God would fight their battles.
• State: Even though we may not be called to capture cities literally, there are battles we face spiritually every day. How we face those battles—either with delay, a lack of trust, or by faith—will determine whether or not we see these battles as God’s victories. 
• Share: Would someone share a time when you continued to obey God, even in the face of a spiritual battle. How did you experience God’s grace and victory?
• Discuss: Record or recall a spiritual battle you are currently facing? What part of the Israelites' steps to obedience do you need to incorporate into your life? How do you need to adjust your life so that you can continue to obey God even when it doesn’t make sense?
• Challenge: Take time today to thank God for His faithfulness in what seemed impossible situations. Be an encourager to someone who you know is facing a spiritual battle. 

Many of us recently watched as a place that holds so many memories was ravaged by wildfires. The Gatlinburg/ Pigeon Forge area is a special place for so many people. It was a place for retreats, vacations, and opportunities to explore God's creation. So what happens when something so dear is lost? How do we respond? What will those who lost so much do next? For Joshua and the Israelites it was simple, "Be Strong and Courageous" because "I (God) will never leave you or forsake you." They had just lost their beloved leader, Moses. This simple word of encouragement meant Joshua and the people of God had a decision to make regarding what God wanted them to do next - to obey or disobey, to give up or move forward, to trust or turn away from God. This is the topic we will dive into in this week's Explore the Bible Study: Commissioned, from LifeWay.

I hope the following teaching ideas will help supplement what you have already prepared to teach this coming week. I pray God will use the study to help your group determine how willing they are to obey God, even when their world has been rocked by change.

INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF JOSHUA
Gene Getz provides a good introduction that will help you understand the context of what Joshua was facing in chapter 1.


TEACHING IDEAS

LOOK UP: Getting focused on the text.

Illustration Option:

Another Black Friday shopping day has come and gone, and I wonder which one of you stood in line the longest. While I didn't brave the onslaught of tired, anxiety-ridden adults daring anyone to cut in line as they waited for a store to open, I know many of you might have done so. So I ask the question: was the anticipation and hype worth the wait? I surely hope so. This week's Explore the Bible study: With Anticipation from LifeWay focuses on one event that is highly anticipated and well worth the wait! It is the return of Christ.

As believers, our wait is not for a prize that will be forgotten, discarded, returned for a refund, or set aside for next year's prize. It is the prize of seeing Christ face-to-face; it is the prize of seeing our faith and hope become a reality; it is knowing that the time spent serving Him, enduring hardships, learning how to live our faith, was well worth the wait!

This week you have the opportunity to lead your group to remain confident in all situations, knowing that Jesus Christ will return! Here are some ideas that might help you lead a discussion of 1 Peter 3.

LOOK UP: Getting focused on the text.
Ask (Once most adults have arrived): 

• Did anyone do any Black Friday shopping this weekend? How long were the lines where you shopped?
• What is the longest you have waited in line for something?
• Why did you wait?
• How did you feel once the wait was over?

Introduce: Last week Peter gave us some descriptions of false teachers so that we could avoid being led astray by them. We also learned from Jude how we should respond to them and those whom they lead astray. It was the response of mercy mixed with additional actions based on whether someone had drifted in their faith, was lost, or was antagonistic toward the ways of God.

Transition: We conclude our study today with Peter encouraging the readers of his second letter not to  give up, get discouraged, or be led astray as they wait for the return of Christ. The nearness of Christ’s return gripped Peter's thoughts as he pushed his readers to look past the errors of the false teachers and to focus on the hope they have because of the promised return of Christ. This same hope should motivate us to continue to live godly lives and to share our faith with others.

LOOK IN: Unpacking the text.
Direct: As 2 Peter 3:1-7 is read, listen for ways Peter expressed passion for helping his readers. Then listen for how he describes the attitude of those who don’t believe Jesus will return.

2 Peter 3:1-7

Identify: How did Peter describe the attitudes of those who didn’t believe in Christ’s return? Based upon verses 3-4, do you think these scoffers had any desire to believe? What was the rationale they gave for not believing in Christ’s return? How do people today express their doubt about the second coming of Christ? How do these compare to Peter's description?

State: Peter reminded his readers of one past event and one future event that the scoffers ignore – The destruction of the earth and judgement of man, first by a flood and finally, destruction and judgement through fire. Verse 5 states that scoffers “willfully ignore” the flood therefore the coming destruction of the earth.

Discuss: How is the flood “willfully” ignored or explained away today? How does the denial of the flood affect people’s view of the return of Christ and God’s final judgement of this earth and man? How does the belief in the biblical story of the flood affect our view of Christ’s return? How does doubt regarding the flood cast doubt on everything God says about the end times?

Consider: What if scoffers caused you to doubt the validity of the flood? How would that affect your faith?

Video Option:

• State: Ken Ham from Answers in Genesis helps us understand how vital a belief in the flood is to our view of Christ’s return and the final judgement of this world.
• Play Video: https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/ 

Transition: Peter indicates in verse 7 that there is a delay in God’s judgement. He is holding back what is in store for this world and “ungodly men.” As 2 Peter 3:8-9 is read, listen for the reason for the delay.

2 Peter 3:8-9

Discuss: How would you describe the reasons for God’s delay? How would you describe God’s grace and mercy based upon this passage? How would you describe His view of time? How does this passage refute the argument that our God is a cruel God? Why is knowing this important to believers, especially when we hear people continually scoffing, not only the flood, but the return of Christ as well?

Transition: Peter wanted his readers to remember that God's timing is perfect. A perceived delay from our perspective is only God’s way of demonstrating His love for man. But, Peter doesn’t leave us wondering what to do. He gives us some instructions on how we should respond in the next verses.

2 Peter 3:10-13

Identify: How did Peter describe what would happen to the earth? What does saying it will come like a “thief in the night” indicate about when this will happen?

Someone Read: Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39; 1 Thessalonians 5:2.

Discuss: How would you summarize Peter’s instructions for believers while we wait for this to be fulfilled?

Consider: Does Peter’s description of what will take place cause you to fear, or does it give you hope? What does your response indicate about your faith or understanding of God?

Transition: Peter closes his letter with two “Therefores” that are very important for us to remember as we face the scoffers, doubters, and cynics of our world. They may try to cause us to be discouraged; they may tempt us to doubt; they may describe us as ignorant, stupid, or foolish; they may even publicly ridicule us. But we cannot and should not be discouraged.

LOOK OUT: Responding to the text.
Direct: Listen to Peter's final words of encouragement, and identify at least one action he gives that can help you remain strong, faithful, and hopeful as you live your Christian life!

2 Peter 3:14-18

Share: What action did you most identify with? Why?

Response: 

• Peter states in verse 15 that we should “regard the patience of our Lord as an opportunity for salvation.” Are you the person Peter is talking to in this passage? Are you at peace with God? Do you know Christ? If not, why not respond now? God has patiently and graciously delayed His judgment just for you.
• As believers, we need to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord by studying and learning God’s Word; we need to guard our faith; and we need to continually share with others about the long-suffering love of Jesus Christ.

Challenge: Despite the confusion that exists today, be assured that the Lord is still in control. He has promised in the past that he will return; he will keep that promise. So don't despair, and don't give up living lives that honor the Lord. Many people will continue to attempt to detour you from the path that you are on. Resist them, but never stop loving them and others. That will be the case as you continue to grow in your appreciation of the grace of your Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.  – Holman New Testament Commentary – 1 & 2 Peter; 1, 2, 3 John and Jude.

On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being most important, how important is it for you to measure all teaching by the Person of Jesus Christ and His Word? If you hesitated to place it at a 10 or if you chose a number less than 10, what does this reveal about how you might be swayed by false teaching? Does this matter to you? The Explore the Bible study: On Guard focuses on answering this question.

This week's study TARGET focuses on helping your group evaluate their view of false teaching and the importance of measuring the accuracy of theirs and other's beliefs against the standard of God's Word.

Consider using some of the following ideas to supplement your study:

LOOK UP: Getting focused on the text.

Option One:

• In Advance (Before the Session): Choose a heavy object and weigh it on a set of scales at home. Bring the object with you to the group session and display it as the group arrives.
• Ask (As the group arrives): Call attention to the heavy object. 
• Ask: How much do you think this object weighs?
• Discuss: What if I told it weighed a certain amount that seemed impossible to believe? How would you respond? Would anyone want some type of confirmation that what I was saying was accurate?

Option Two:

• In Advance: Bring some type of food item that contains a nutrition label.
• Guide: Whoever guesses the weight (or calories) wins the prize today. (Give the person who guesses the closest the food item)
• Discuss: Would you trust my accuracy on the weight if I did not have some way of confirming my conclusion? Why or why not?

Ask: Has anyone heard of the website Snopes.com? What is the purpose of this website? (It’s an internet reference site that helps verify facts, rumors, urban legends, and other information posted on the internet.)

Discuss: Do you think people are as concerned about getting their facts right today as they have been in the past? How does the massive amount of misinformation being given to people today affect their view of Scriptures? How does it affect their view of Christians who espouse biblical views?

Introduce: Our session today comes from two different books of the Bible, 2 Peter and Jude, but they contain similar content. Both Peter and Jude faced false teaching that was spreading in their day, and they wanted to help their readers, and us, understand how important it is to measure everything we hear and the people we follow against the truth of Scripture.

Transition: Let’s begin by listening for ways both Peter and Jude described the actions of false teachers.

LOOK IN: Unpacking the text.

2 Peter 2:1-3

• What were the actions and attitudes of false teachers Peter and Jude describe? (Capture on Markerboard)
• Why is it so important that we understand the actions and attitudes of these false teachers?
• Everyone read Jude 16-19 and identify words and phrases Jude used to describe false teachers and their teachings? (Continue to add to the list on the markerboard)
• Is it easier to spot false prophets by their actions or their words? Explain. (PSG, p. 126) 
• What reality did Jude give regarding false teachers? What does he say about their spiritual condition?
• Which of these should we use to measure the teachings of a church leader? - Their looks | Their age | Their degrees | Their charisma | Their leadership skills | Their temperament | Their biblical accuracy | Their ability to communicate | The pleasantness of what they teach | Their decisiveness.
• How easy is it for Christians today to sacrifice biblical accuracy if they are following a religious leader or even a denomination (or cult) that offers any of the other areas mentioned? Have you seen someone compromise their faith because they “liked” what someone was saying
• On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being most important, how important is it for you to measure all teaching by the Person of Jesus Christ and His Word? If you hesitated to place it at a 10 or if you chose a number less than 10, what does this reveal about how you might be swayed by false teaching? Does this matter to you?

Transition: Jude also provides suggestions regarding how we can combat false teaching. Listen and identify some of the preventative measures believers can take and how they should respond to those who are led away by false teachers.

Jude 20-23
Identify: What were the preventative measures? – Build yourselves up in your faith (keep growing) | Pray under the leadership of the Holy Spirit | Keep yourselves in the love of God | Hold on to your hope of eternal life.

Discuss: How can these help us become more discerning regarding false teachers? Which of these are most visible in your life? Which needs to become more visible or active.

Discuss: How did Jude say we are to respond to those who are being led astray by false teachers?

What is the best way to find your way through the darkest of nights? I have found that if I find that light that I can trust not to move, whether it be in a dark room or in the great outdoors, I can navigate pretty well. In this week's Explore the Bible study: With Trust, the Apostle Peter said we should treat the Word of God in the same way as we navigate this world we live in. You will do well to pay attention to it, as to a lamp shining in a dismal place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. (1 Peter 1:19)

There are a couple of LOOK UP options you could use to introduce this study to your group.

Option One: 

• Display (In Advance): “The B-I-B-L-E”
• Video Option (Play once most have arrived): The B-I-B-L-E. https://youtu.be/l8w5AeZtOqs
• Discuss: How many of you are familiar with this children's song? What is the main theme of the song? (I can stand alone on the word of God.) Do most Christians believe they can "stand alone on the word of God"?

Would someone describe you as a useful or a useless Christian? This might sound harsh, but this is what the apostle Peter challenges us to consider in this week's Explore the Bible study: Being Useful. Our study this week takes us to 2 Peter 1:1-11 as Peter challenges his readers to grow in their faith.

I have incorporated two optional illustrations into the study that can be used during the LOOK UP, LOOK IN, and LOOK OUT portions. One illustration concerns the growth and nurture a child needs in order to grow into a healthy adult. The second illustration concerns the care needed in order to keep a potted plant alive and healthy.

I am also treating 2 Peter 1:1-2 as a part of the introductory materials as I establish the message and purpose of 2 Peter.


LOOK UP: Getting focused on the text
OPTION ONE: Child Growing

• Display (In advance): What does a child need in order to grow?
• Direct: Option 1 (Instruct as the group enters): List one thing on the markerboard that a child needs in order to grow. Option 2 (Once group arrives): Work in two’s or three’s and prepare a list of what a child needs in order to grow.

OPTION TWO: Potted Plant

• Display: Bring a potted plant to class, and display as the group gathers.
• Ask (Once most adults have arrived): How many of you are able to keep a potted plant alive?What is needed in order for a potted plant to live and grow? Isn’t it enough just to place a plant in a pot and let it grow on its own?

Explain: We know that, in order for anything that is alive to thrive and grow, it must be nourished and given the proper care and environment. This is equally true for those of us who have experienced new life in Christ. If we have been born again, we will –we must – grow in Christ. It is unnatural for us to not grow.

Transition: We begin a study today of 2 Peter. Peter is most likely near the end of his life as he writes believers, encouraging them to grow in their faithfulness to Christ. He also offers wisdom regarding how to deal with false teachers and reminds them to hold on to the promised hope of Christ’s return. He begins with a powerful opening that is full of truth regarding believers' relationship to Christ.

Read: 2 Peter 2:1-2
How would you describe Peter's tone with his audience? What is significant about Peter's description of himself as a slave and apostle?

• SLAVE: He belongs to Jesus by right of purchase – see 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. Peter, as a slave, was under the authority of and submitted to the lordship of Christ. It was viewed as a position of honor. 
• APOSTLE: Peter has an authoritative commission and speaks God’s words. 
• SUMMARY: He wrote as a commissioned slave of Jesus Christ and his appointed apostle. He wrote authoritatively to a church threatened by false teachers.

Ask: 

• How did he describe their faith? Why was this important? (The ground at the cross is level ground. We all come to Christ through faith. We came to faith just like Peter did! We receive the same faith and grace Peter did!)
• How was Jesus described by Peter? (God – Jesus – Our Lord) What does this communicate about Jesus? (That He is God)
• What was his desire for them? (That grace and peace be multiplied)
• How can grace and peace be multiplied? (Through the knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord)

Explain: Peter was espousing the fact that believers should be growing in the knowledge of the salvation they have already received through the free gift of salvation. Knowledge refers both to the knowledge of God they had at conversion and to its increase in their lives.

Transition: Peter's introduction is important because it sets the tone of everything he will be sharing regarding Christian growth. Peter then begins to explain how we have been given everything we need in order to grow in Christ.

LOOK IN: Unpacking the text

2 Peter 1:3-4

• What do these verses communicate regarding how we obtain all we need? Is it something we find within ourselves? (No, it is given to us – His divine power has given us everything (v3); He called us by His own glory and goodness (v.3); He has given us (v4).
• What were the promises Christ gives? (I.e: Conquer sin; provide salvation; provide eternal life; return again)
• Instead of being corrupted by the influence of an ungodly environment and evil desires, you are given God’s power to share in His divine nature. Christ has come to dwell with you (John 14:23) which gives you everything you need in order to grow in His virtues. Peter called this a great and precious promise.
• How would you use this truth to encourage a fellow believer who is struggling with old desires? How does it apply to your faith journey at this time?
• Do you believe everything you need to overcome temptation, frustration, discouragement, or doubts is available to you through your relationship with Christ?

Transition
OPTION ONE: Child growing

• We began our discussion by talking about what a child needs in order to grow. 
• How many of you would encourage children to take some type of multi-vitamin? Why would you do this?
• Just as we know the importance of supplementing a child’s growth with some type of vitamins, Peter emphasizes how important it is that we supplement our faith with vital nutrients that will help us grow in and live out our faith in Christ.

OPTION TWO: Potted Plant

• We began our discussion by talking about what was needed to keep a potted plant alive.
• Have you ever seen or used potted plant fertilizer spikes? (Note: Consider showing a potted plant fertilizer spike).  What is the purpose of the spike? 
• These spikes are important because they supplement the nutrients a plant receives from the soil and water. They cause a plant to remain strong and enhance the beauty of the plant. Peter knew that believers must supplement their faith as well so that they could remain strong and live a life that reflected the faith they claimed to have.

2 Peter 1:5-7

• Is Peter only offering advice, or is he giving a strong command to these believers? (He is strongly commanding . . . make every effort to supplement your faith)
• Peter begins with the foundation of faith based on the work of Jesus Christ that secures a believer’s eternal redemption. On that foundation, Peter strongly commands believers to build intentionally and methodically by practicing the virtues of goodness, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love.
• Review the eight virtues in verses 5-7. Circle the virtue in which you have experienced good growth during the past year. Underline the virtue for which you need to experience the most growth during the year ahead. What steps will you take to “make every effort” to grow in this area of your life? 

Transition: Write the word “Useless” on the markerboard.

2 Peter 1:8-11

• Imagine coming to the end of your life, and your faith in Christ is examined. Upon examination it is labeled as “useless” or “unfruitful”.
• How would you respond to knowing that your faith was described in this way by someone else? 
• How should this statement from Peter change the way you view how you live your faith from day-to-day?
• What does Peter say is wrong with the person who doesn’t grow in their faith? (blind and shortsighted)
• Can you give examples of how people claim to believe but seem to be blind to the ways of God?
• Can you give examples of how people claim to believe but act in ways that are shortsighted?
• Do verses 10-11 indicate that someone could lose their salvation, or do they indicate that someone who refuses to develop their faith might not truly know Christ?

Emphasize: Though Christians fail and sometimes give in to temptation, the sum of our lives should reveal spiritual progress. Peter urged his readers to examine themselves for signs that they are in a relationship with Christ or to “confirm their calling and election.” Spiritual growth happens over time and is an outward sign of an inward change.

LOOK OUT: Responding to the text.

OPTION ONE: Child growing

• We began our study today talking about the importance of helping a child grow up to be a healthy adult.
• What evidence points to your spiritual growth since placing your faith in Christ? Which virtues are you making an effort to put into practice? Are you truly growing into a healthy, mature Christian?

OPTION TWO: Potted Plant

• We began our study today talking about how we help a potted plant remain healthy and growing.
• What evidence points to your spiritual growth since placing your faith in Christ? Which virtues are you making an effort to put into practice? Are you truly growing into a healthy, mature Christian? Is this how people would describe you?

Challenge: Don’t let the words "useless" or "unfruitful" be how your faith in Christ is described by others. If you need to talk with someone about your relationship with Christ, let me know. If you are struggling as a believer to add to your faith those virtues Peter listed, then talk with someone who might become your encourager and prayer partner.

During the last presidential election a Christian business leader, Jeremie Kubicek, promoted an emphasis that pushed for humility as the number one quality that leaders, in fact everyone, should possess. The image above was used in his "campaign." His point was to use the election campaign emphasis as a means to communicate his message regarding the importance of humility. As we turn our focus this week toward the final chapter of 1 Peter in the LifeWay Explore the Bible study: Alert Living, this is the emphasis the Apostle Peter also focuses upon.

As I began to study 1 Peter 5:1-11, I felt the title and TARGET for the study should be tweaked. As you study, prayerfully consider the following TARGET for your group:


As a part of my teaching plan, I am going to use the image above as a part of my LOOK UP step in order to draw my group into Peter's conversation regarding the importance of humility. Check out the additional ideas I suggest below or download the entire teaching plan.

LOOK UP: Getting focused on the text.

• Display in Advance (Markerboard, Tear sheet, or PowerPoint slide): HUMBLE FOR PRESIDENT
• Discuss (Once most of the group has arrived): If we were to elect “Humble” for president today, what qualities might he or she possess?
• Discuss: In an article that Christian business leader Jeremie Kubicek published, he contrasts the differences between humility and pride. With which of these would you agree? With which would you disagree?

• Ask: What other qualities would you say demonstrate humility? Do you believe our culture is facing a humility crisis? What about the church?
• Contextualize: As Peter comes to the conclusion of 1 Peter, his primary focus is on living a humble life. He wanted his audience, including us, to understand that humility is an essential part of our Christian faith—not just for Christian leaders but for all believers. 
• Transition: He begins 1 Peter 5 with a word he uses often – Therefore. This therefore points back to what Peter has just emphasized in 1 Peter 4 regarding suffering. Many times suffering and trials reveal the pride and arrogance that is in our hearts. We then respond to our circumstances by deflecting blame, mistreating others, and building up our own pride.  Peter says there is another way – the way of humility.

LOOK IN: Unpacking the text.
1 Peter 5:1-4
Instruct: Listen for Peter’s positive directions and warnings for this group of leaders.

Identify (List on markerboard): What were the positive directions Peter gave? What were the warnings he gave?

• POSITIVE: Shepherd God’s flock among you. ASK: How would you describe the act of shepherding?
• WARNING: Don’t oversee them out of compulsion. ASK: What does he mean? (the action or state of forcing or being forced to do something; constraint.)
• POSITIVE: Shepherd according to God’s will. ASK: How is shepherding according to God’s will different from overseeing them out of compulsion?
• WARNING: Don’t shepherd them for financial gain. ASK: What happens when someone begins to view people as a means to financial gain?
• WARNING: Don’t lord your position over them. ASK: How would you describe the act of “lording” over someone?
• POSITIVE: Be examples to the flock. ASK: How can elders be examples/role models? 

Discuss: If the elder is to do this in order to set an example, does this mean other believers in the church are exempt from acting in this way? What is the purpose for setting an example to the flock?

Contrast: What is the reward the church leader should be looking for? (unfading crown of glory). How long does an unfading crown of glory last? When a church leader begins to look for earthly gain, what happens? What does he gain? How long will that gain last?

State: While this passage focuses on the role of church leaders, it does not negate the responsibility of all believers to act this way toward one another. They are to set an example toward one another and to the world that is watching.

Consider: How hard is it to know that you are to live in such a way that you are to set an example to others of how to live the Christian life?

Transition: Peter now turns his attention to everyone else in the church including the younger men.

1 Peter 5:5-7
Identify (List on markerboard): What were the instructions he gave in these passages?

• Be subject to the elders (v.5) Ask: Why should we be subject to the elders of the church? (Remember, the elders were to set an example.) How hard is this for a young person or young adult? How hard is it for you? What makes it so difficult? What benefits do we gain by following Peter's instructions?
• Clothe yourself with humility (v.5) Ask: How do we clothe ourselves with humility? What does his imagery communicate?
• Humble yourself under the hand of God (v.6) Ask: How do we humble ourselves under the hand of God? How difficult is this to do? How does this help us be clothed with humility and be subject to church leaders? How does God give grace to the humble? What should this communicate regarding living a life of humility versus a life built on pride?
• Cast all your care on Him (v.7) Ask: How can casting all our cares on Christ help us remain humble toward God and practice humility? How can knowing that God cares help us overcome despair if we feel that we are not getting the recognition we feel we deserve? What happens when a professing believer just gives up and gives in when facing difficulties or temptations? (When we don’t turn and trust in God during distressing times we tend to become self-centered. We forget about God’s grace which leads us to dishonoring the name of Christ in the way we live and treat others.)

Consider: Which of these actions is most difficult for you to implement? Consider what you need to do in order to strengthen that area of your faith.

Transition: Peter knows that, while we are striving to live our Christian faith in a difficult world, we could become vulnerable prey for the Devil, so he gives a stark warning regarding what we should be doing while striving to live as he has previously instructed.

1 Peter 5:8-9
Illustration Option (Explore the Bible Leader Extra): Four-year-old Kelsi Butt survived an attacked by a mountain lion in August while she and her family were camping at Green Canyon Hot Springs Resort in Idaho. When she was attacked, Kelsi’s mom heard the screams, and went to rescue her daughter by yelling and chasing the lion. He dropped Kelsi and ran away. Kelsi sustained some bite punctures and bruises, but was otherwise fine. The parents had actually spotted the cat earlier and were watchful as a result. Experts say their close watch and quick thinking saved the child’s life. The parents were ALERT to the presence of a mountain lion and took the threat seriously. They knew of the danger, watched closely, and they acted quickly.

Identify (List on markerboard): What were the actions presented by Peter that a person should take in defense of an attack by Satan.  (Be serious! Be Alert! Recognize that everyone is vulnerable; Resist him; Remember that you aren’t the only one being attacked.)

Discuss: Is your tendency to ignore the threat the Devil poses, or to fear him too much? How does this warning help us live by the guidelines he has given in the previous verses? What do we need to do when we see the Devil attacking or preparing to attack others around us?

1 Peter 5:10-11
Emphasize: Peter points out four things God will do for his readers as they strive to live a faithful, humble Christian life, even in the midst of suffering – He will restore, establish, strengthen, and support them!  All four words emphasize the same idea—God would see them through their suffering and make them strong enough to remain faithful to Him.

Ask: How can knowing this help you remain humble? How can it help you remain alert and serious about your faith?

LOOK OUT: Responding to the text.

• Read: Genesis 3:4-5
• State: Pride led to sin which has separated us from God. The sin of pride continues to perpetuate itself today. That is why Peter emphasized that this cannot be part of the life of a believer. Pride weakens our resistance toward Satan, prevents us from tackling with confidence the outside forces that press in on us (i.e. suffering), and it causes us to dishonor others around us. We cease to be an example to others of how a Christian should live in a fallen world.
• Apply (Refer back to the display, HUMBLE FOR PRESIDENT): If you were describing “Humble” to someone based upon our study today, what qualities would you say “Humble” would need to have in order to be president? If these were qualities we feel a president should have, don’t you think we should be exhibiting those same qualities as believers?

For the past several months, Franklin Graham has been touring the 50 United Sates on a tour called Decision American 2016. In his speech he reveals that about 7,100 Christians around the world were killed for their faith this past year. Churches are being burned, looted, and bulldozed, and pastors are frequently killed. In dozens of countries, Christians are denied educations and jobs, and are shunned and mocked. Graham also points to examples of people being ridiculed in the US for their Christian beliefs. (See more at LifeWay Explore the Bible Leader Extra) As we come to the close of 1 Peter 4, the LifeWay Explore the Bible Study: Handling Ridicule will focus on the perspective we must keep when facing ridicule and other forms of persecution.

More of Franklin Graham's speech is included as a part of the LOOK OUT portion of this week's study.

As you prepare to teach this week you might want to consider listening to the following in order to consider another Christian leader's explanation of suffering that the church will face. Consider emailing the link to your group following the session.


Here are some teaching helps you might want to include as you lead your group:

LOOK UP: Getting focused on the text.

• Display (As Adults Arrive): “Dear Friends”
• Instruct: Imagine you have good friends who are being ridiculed because of their faith. What kind of encouragement would you give them that could help them endure the ridicule they are facing?
• Discuss:If we faced ridicule for standing for our faith would we be tempted to question whether we made the correct decision or possibly misread God’s will? Do believers sometimes question if God has abandoned them when they face difficulties for living their faith?
• Debate: Would you agree or disagree with this statement? - “Living faithfully for God and doing His will means that we won’t face difficulties or ridicule.”
• Transition: Peter begins by addressing his readers as dear friends. Then he moves to give them his advice on how to keep a proper perspective on ridicule and other forms of persecution.

LOOK IN: Unpacking the text.

1 Peter 1:12-14
Direct: Peter describes the experiences we may face and how we should respond to these situations.

• What are the situations he describes? (List on markerboard or tear sheet under the heading, “situations”)
• What are the responses or perspectives we should have? (List on markerboard or tear sheet under the heading, “response.”)

(Situation – fiery ordeal; Response – Shouldn’t be surprised | Situation – sufferings; Response – rejoice | Situation – ridicule; Response – remember you are blessed; it is a sign that Holy Spirit lives in you and that you are one of God’s children.)

Discuss (ETB Young Adult Teaching Plan):

• How does a person’s suffering help him or her share in Christ’s suffering?
• Why should the temporary nature of suffering encourage those who are enduring it?
• How does the presence of the Holy Spirit help those enduring insults and ridicule?

Volunteers Read: Matthew 5:11-12; James 1:2-4; Romans 5:2b-5; Psalm 66:10; Zechariah 13:9; and Malachi 3:1-4

Ask: Why do you suppose the theme of suffering is so prevalent in Scripture? How do you react to the concept that suffering for living our faith is normal for Christians? How would you then summarize the purpose of suffering in the context of this passage?

Consider: Do you believe you would respond the way Peter encourages us to if you were to truly face persecution for your faith?

Summarize: The consistent biblical teaching is that suffering is the pathway to glory. For our Lord, there was no crown without the cross. Those who follow His example should expect to find it the same. (ETB Leader Commentary)

Identify (Create a comparison chart on a tear sheet or markerboard):

• Describe behaviors or situations that might lead to Christians being ridiculed because they call themselves Christians and live their Christian faith. (List on one side of the chart as they are identified; Consider situations they have heard about in the news, especially within the United States.)
• Describe behaviors that would lead to someone being ridiculed justly.

1 Peter 4:15-16
Identify: Are there additional negative behaviors identified that need to be added to the list? (include: murder, theft, doing evil, and meddling - being nosy into the affairs of another person and making mischief.)

Discuss:

• What is the difference between suffering for wrongdoing and suffering for living differently as a Christian?
• What is the difference between normal human suffering (i.e. physical issues, sickness, etc.) and being a believer who suffers for taking a stand for what they believe?
• Should a believer who suffers because they are “standing for their faith” but doing it in an ungodly way, wear his suffering as a “badge of honor”? (No; Remember Peter's instructions in earlier passages on how we should live as believers – See 1 Peter 3:16-17)
• Is it wrong for a “believer” who willingly and blatantly lives an ungodly life to identify the resulting consequences or hardships as the type of suffering Peter is describing in these passages? (Yes; their suffering is due to God’s judgement and their choices, not because they are righteously living out their faith.)

Ask: What does Peter say our response should be in verse 16? (We should not be ashamed in being identified as Christians.)

Consider: If you were ridiculed or criticized for your faith, would you be embarrassed or feel ashamed?

Emphasize: In those early days, the term “Christian” was used by unbelievers as a term of derision. It became a description that early believers wore proudly. So, when you hear someone today say something like, “If it weren’t for those Christians; If only those Christians; when he starts talking like a Christian I can’t stand it,” hold your head up proudly and be honored that you have been identified as a Christ follower!

Transition: Peter concludes by reminding his readers that we can trust the One who saved us to see us through to the end!

1 Peter 4:17-19
State: I am sure you have heard the phrase, “You think I’m in bad shape; you should see the other guy!”

Discuss: Imagine the misery of judgement that the ungodly and the sinner will face when they stand before the Creator of this universe.

• How should this change your perspective toward those who don’t know Christ, even those who might persecute or ridicule you?
• Can you list some individuals whom you should begin praying for and looking for opportunities to share your faith with because they most likely fit into this category of people?

State: Verse 19 closes the emphasis on suffering as Peter reminds his readers and us that:

1. Believers who suffer for living a faithful Christian life do so, not because of chance or fate or bad luck. It is part of God’s will for them to do so. Ask: What questions do you have in regard to suffering according to God’s will? If we could understand this, how would it change our view suffering?
2. God is not only faithful – which speaks to His character; He is also Creator – which speaks to His authority over all things. Discuss: The term entrust means “to give something to someone for safekeeping and care.” Jesus used a form of this word as He suffered on the cross – Luke 23:46. If we don’t trust God’s character or understand His authority over all things, can we truly trust Him when we face suffering?

Emphasize: Do you truly entrust your life and your faith to Him, or do you question in the back of your mind whether you should trust Him completely? If you don’t trust His character and His authority, then you will not endure suffering for His sake. Most likely, you won’t even be willing to face suffering because of Christ.

State: As our Creator, He is faithful and trustworthy. We can count on Him to keep His promises and to give us the power of His Spirit to follow His will for our lives, even when that includes suffering.

LOOK OUT: Responding to the text.

Application OPTION ONE (Use the following or develop your own): 
Consider the following scenarios. How would you offer encouragement to these individuals based upon what Peter has said in these passages?

• Sam loses his job because he refuses to lie on a report to the board.
• Josh is fired from his job because he doesn’t want to work on Sunday mornings.
• Eric, a school teacher, has been reprimanded for having his Bible sitting on his desk.
• Coach Boyd is fired because he prayed with his football team prior to each football game.
• A wedding planner is sued because she made a decision to not perform a wedding for a gay couple because of her Christian faith.
• A husband ridicules his wife for her faith and desire to take her children to church.
• Suzanne has become angry at God because her work environment is so toxic to her faith. She wonders why God doesn’t move her to another job.
• Your friend lives in a country where Christians are being tortured and killed.

Application OPTION TWO (Based on Explore the Bible Leader Extra Helps): For the past several months, Franklin Graham has been touring the 50 United Sates on a tour called Decision American 2016. In his speeches, he warns that, in the past year, 7,100 Christians around the world were killed for their faith. Churches are being burned, looted, and bulldozed, and pastors are frequently killed. In dozens of countries, Christians are denied educations and jobs, and are shunned and mocked. Graham points to examples of people being ridiculed in the US for their Christian beliefs. In Illinois, a Christian owner of a Bed and Breakfast has been fined $81,000 for refusing to host a same-sex wedding. Bakers in Oregon have been forced to shut their business and pay state fines after refusing to bake a wedding cake for a same-sex wedding. A 71-year-old Christian florist is battling the state after declining to provide service for a gay wedding in New Mexico and Colorado. Graham’s goal is to instill in Christians the urgency of prayer and making wise decisions about which leaders to support in the upcoming elections. He reminds listeners that the Bible tells us to expect persecution for our faith, but we must do everything in our power to further the gospel and to facilitate freedom for Christians to continue to be salt and light in this dark world.

• How do you feel about Franklin Graham’s assessment of the impending Christian persecution in America?
• What verses in today’s passage speak to the concerns being expressed by Franklin Graham?
• How can we implement the actions Peter called on his readers to follow?

Commit: What do you need to do in order to change your thinking about and/or your relationship to God so that you are willing to live as one whose faith can handle anything or anyone that challenges you because you are actively living out your Christian faith?