Field Guide - 1 Peter 5.26.24

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Scripture
1 Peter 1:22-2:1 

Sunday Refresher
Hostility is contagious. In our lives, whether at work, school, or home, hostility has a way of seeping in and affecting us more deeply than we might expect. It's like bringing home the stress of a bad day—it infects our safe spaces and can negatively impact our relationships.
Hostility usually provokes either retaliation or resentment. Peter, however, offers a third way.

When our hearts are transformed through the power of the Gospel and our souls are purified, we are then able to have a sincere and earnest love. This transformation, sparked by our rebirth through the imperishable word of God, calls us to put away malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander, and instead embody the new life Christ has given us. We must actively shed these old behaviors as if they were filthy garments.
 
This is how Christians are called to live—not as those who stoke flames of conflict, but as those who carry water to extinguish them, promoting a contagion of love.


Personal Reflections

• What did God say to you through this passage and teaching?
• Did God reveal anything new to you?
• How is this relevant in your journey to make disciples who Love God and Love people?

Questions

• What does it mean to "purify your souls by your obedience to the truth" in the context of facing hostility?
• How does Peter suggest we handle the contagious nature of hostility within our communities?
• What are the practical steps Peter outlines for believers to transform from old behaviors to new ones in 1 Peter 1:22-25?
• How does the metaphor of removing dirty work clothes relate to spiritual renewal and behavior change in believers?
• How can sincere and earnest love among Christians act as a counterforce to the hostility and division often seen in society?

Additional Scripture

• Romans 12:9
• Isaiah 40:9
• Matthew 24:35

Prayer