As Peter brings his letter to a close, he strings a number of commands together, connecting them to gospel-promises. After all, Peter's purpose in writing is to declare to us the true grace of God. Therefore, “Humble yourselves” because God will exalt you. “Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." “Be sober-minded” and “watchful,” because you have an enemy and you are on the Lord's side. “Resist” the Devil and stand “firm,” because you are not alone. All of these commands are followed with an expectant hope that Christ will soon restore, confirm, strengthen and establish us at his return!
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
Peter refers to his whole letter as “the true grace of God.” How would you treat the Bible if you really viewed Scripture in this way? According to verse 12, how are we to respond to the true grace of God?
Considering the inheritance of 1 Peter 1:3–9 and the promises in 5:10, what does being “[exalted] at the proper time” mean?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
What is the relationship between anxiety and humility in verses 6–7? Why do you think proud people tend to be more anxious than humble people?
How do verses 10–11 inspire confidence in our battle against sin, temptation, and the Devil? Read James 4:7 and notice the power we have in Christ to overcome the Devil
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
Verse 8 reminds us that we have a great foe in our Christian life. The word for “devil”1 means adversary, and he is depicted as a ravenous lion. Do you take this adversary seriously? List the various ways in which we can oppose the Devil, and reflect on how you can better practice these strategies.
Reflect on Peter’s opening prayer, “grace and peace be multiplied to you.” How has God done this for you throughout this letter? What role has Jesus played in accomplishing this? Pause to praise him, together with the Father and the Spirit, for how God has ministered to you.
Some Questions adapted from 1 Peter for You by Juan Sanchez and Knowing The Bible: 1-2 Peter & Jude.
