LIVING HOPE

“Passing The Baton”

Pastor Duane Cross | 11.25.2012

“How do we live with hope in a hopeless world?”

“So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful creator and continue to do good.” (1 Peter 4:19)

“To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” 1 Peter 5:1-4(NIV)

PRINCIPLE #1: Follow the right leaders

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” (Hebrews 13:7)

PRINCIPLE #2: Practicing humility

PRINCIPLE #3: Release anxiety

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

PRINCIPLE #4: Be aware

PRINCIPLE #5: Stand fast

STAND FAST TO WHAT?

“The true grace of God.”

GOING DEEPER QUESTIONS

For the Week of November 25

1 Peter 5 | Pastor Duane Cross

These questions are designed to help you go deeper with the sermon during your week-to take a closer look at the Scripture and find fresh ways to live out the main points of the sermon. Going Deeper questions also are used for discussion in all of our Grow Groups at Hope.

Getting Started                                                                                                                           What insight or principle from this weekend’s message did you find helpful, interesting or challenging? Explain.

What does leadership look like in the world of politics and business?

What causes you to be anxious? How do you deal with it?

How do you live with hope in a hopeless world?

A Closer Look                                                                                                                              Glance at a few of these passages: Psalm 23; Ezekiel 34; Luke 15:3-7; John 10:1-16; John 21:15-19. Where is Peter getting his “shepherding” imagery? How does this shepherd imagery describe God? Jesus? Church elders?

What are the responsibilities of elders/pastors? How can you help them lead?

How can you “practice” humility?

Peter tells us that the source of persecution is the devil that “prowls around like a roaring lion”. (v.8) Why do many Christians tend to soft-petal on the idea of real spiritual warfare? How does 1 John 3:8 and Ephesians 5:12 talk about spiritual warfare?

How do you resist with the enemy (vss. 8-9)? What are your resources in doing battle (see Matthew 4:1-11)?

Digging Deeper

In times of tribulation and persecution, how can you stand in the “true grace of God” (vss. 9 & 12)?

In what area of your life do you need the “peace” of God?

What is the overall message that has spoken to you from Peter’s letter? How has it

impacted you?

Share one verse or phrase from the book that will help you to stand firm.