PART 1
In this chapter, Peter focuses on how two specific groups of people should live their Christian lives, in times of suffering. He centers on the elders and the young – the elders, who are part of the leadership of their body of believers, and the young, who are the future of the church.
To the elders he encourages them to “shepherd the flock;” not because they have to, but because they should want to. He instructs them “not to lead as a dictator,” but to “lead by example.”
And to the young he says, “do as your elders and leaders ask.” Another way of putting it is, “submit to your elders and leaders.”
He then goes on to warn the young people to be on their guard and stay disciplined because the devil is prowling around waiting for the perfect time to attack them.
But Peter also points out to them how important it is for them to remain firm in their faith, even in the face of suffering.
1 Pet 5:10-11 10 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. 11 To him be the power for ever and ever.
Amen.
PART 2
There are three areas in a Christian’s life where the devil will attack us in an attempt to try and discourage and weaken us. They are:
- He wants us to stop reading the Holy Bible – the inspired, written word of God.
- He wants us to not associate or fellowship with other Christian believers.
- He wants us to avoid praying, communicating and building a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ.
AND, he will stop at nothing to try and accomplish his works. Don’t let this happen to you.
Amen