As those redeemed by God, we are freed to lives of obedience to him. As those who have been so well-loved by him, we joyfully love in return pursuing lives of holiness here and now. This is the result of being born again by the word of God. Even though “the grass withers and the flower falls”, the gospel never will. The gospel that Christians believe in has no expiration date!
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
Verse 13 begins with “therefore,” indicating that everything that precedes this verse is the basis for what Peter will say next. Summarize the basis for Peter’s command in this verse and consider how it impacts our call to holiness in verse 15.
How do 1:18–22 and 2:3 show us that holiness involves not just getting far from sin but also must include getting close to God?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
How does this approach to holiness (rooted in a close, loving relationship with God, through Jesus) change your approach to being holy?
If you profess faith in Christ, are you marked by unhypocritical love for your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ?
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
How can you think and hope differently, so that your conduct would become more holy?
And how can you motivate yourself toward obedience by meditating on your redemption when you are tempted?
ADDITIONAL RESOURCE - Video Overview of 1 Peter by The Bible Project