Introduction

Lesson 8: ‘The End of All Things Is At Hand’ Part 2

‘To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, 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. In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favour to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it. She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark. Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.’ 1 Peter 5:1-14

Discussion questions

Did the last lesson’s reminder that ‘the end of all things is at hand’ bear any fruit this past week? Why might it sometimes be difficult to live in constant anticipation of Christ’s coming?

Leadership 1 Peter 5:1-4

1. What effect will an appreciation for the fact that ‘the end of all things is at hand’ have on how elders do their work?

2. Discuss the characteristics and work of elders as they relate to the following words:

a. Elder

b. Shepherd

c. Overseer

3. To whom will elders give an account?

Fellowship 1 Peter 5:5

1. How are Christians to serve under the oversight of elders?

2. Why might the ‘younger people’ have been especially singled out in this regard?

Responsibilities and Rewards 1 Peter 5:6-14

1. What responsibilities and attendant rewards are mentioned in 1 Peter 5:6-10?

2. Compare and contrast 1 Peter 5:8 with John 4:23?

 ‘Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.’ John 4:23

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