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Call to worship: Isaiah 53

Text: 1 Peter 2:18-25

Sermon Outline:

1. The Christian servant's calling in Christ, 2:18-21a.
2. The Christian servant's example in Christ, 2:21b-23.
3. The Christian servant's reminder in Christ, 2:24-25.

Prepare

Questions:

1. Read 1 Peter 2:18-25. Spend time digesting it yourself, then as a family, in preparation for doing so with our church family.
2. In 2:18-21a, it's fair to ask how we're to understand the notion of servants and masters and Christianity. Is it the same as the slavery practiced in America? The quick answer is no. But does that mean it was any less difficult to be a servant in Greco-Roman culture? On occasion but, most often, no. Still, what does Peter urge them to do? Does this mean they were to suffer injustice (it was quite the improvement of Christianity to treat the mistreatment of servants as injustice!), or to agree to unrighteousness absolutely? If, however, their abuse was legitimized instead of illegitimized, how were they to respond? Who and what were they to set their minds upon? How would their situation and station in life make Peter's call applicable to all Christians everywhere?
3. In 2:21b-23, Peter sets forward our example in Christ crucified of how we're to respond to unjust suffering. How is Jesus distinct from us? How is His example exemplary for us? What did He not do? What did He do? How did this enable Him to endure suffering graciously?
4. In 2:24-25, Peter gives us a reminder. By nature, we are no different than those who might abuse us for Jesus' sake. We are all sinners deserving wrath and only through Christ's grace forgiven and redeemed. How does this help us be gracious to our oppressors?
5. In 2:24-25, as part of Peter's reminder, he points us to Who Jesus is for us, yes, our Savior, but also our Shepherd and Overseer. How is this a comforting word for 'beaten servants'? How is it comforting to any Christian who's had to endure suffering for the sake of faithfulness?