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Leader Guide for Lesson 8

  1. Describe specific ways that you can follow the commands in 1 Peter 3:8.

    2. Initiate meaningful, concerned contact with other Christians and follow up on it. Take the initiative in getting things straight if you have had conflict with someone.

  2. How difficult is it to resist repaying evil for evil and insult for insult (3:9)?

    3. Very! The tendency is to want to strike back and to even the score--at least! We don’t want anyone to get ahead of us or to go unpunished for what they have done (but we can know that God will take care of it).

  3. When have you suffered for doing what is right (3:13-14)? Was it worth it?

    4. Have people share any experiences they have had.

  4. Verse 15 says "in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord." The verb "set apart" is a form of the word "holy." Peter is saying, "make holy in your hearts Christ as Lord." How does making Christ your holy Lord in your heart help you handle what life throws at you?

    5. We are to be devoted to holiness and not do things the world's way.

  5. What is your answer for the hope that you have in Christ (3:15)?

    6. Encourage people to express their faith. A time may come when they will have to.

  6. How might a Christian not answer a questioner with gentleness and respect (3:15)?

    7. A Christian might reply unkindly if he feels threatened. He may think that the questioner doesn't deserve a kind answer.

  7. Why is it important for a Christian to keep a clear conscience (3:16)?

    8. We have to do what we believe to be right, otherwise the conscience will become hardened. This is trusting God to handle things and avoiding taking matters into our own hands.

  8. What are some examples of people who have had to suffer for doing good (3:17)?

    9. Prophets, apostles, missionaries, Christians who are ridiculed on the job or in school for refusing to go along with what is wrong, etc. Encourage people to name specific individuals if they can.

  9. Christians will never be universally admired and understood in this world. Why is this true?

The world is threatened by Christians and operates on a different standard.

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