Resurrected Life Here & Now ~ Embrace the Call to Action

Today’s message continues our focus on 1st Peter and the gift we have been given through Jesus’ resurrection of new birth to a living hope. Moving to 1 Peter 4:7-11, we see Peter’s ultimate encouragement to a suffering church that “the end of all things is at hand.” Rather than creating fear or encouraging speculation about dates and timelines, Peter points believers toward hope, reminding them that history is moving toward the fulfillment of God’s promises in Christ. Because Christians live in the “time between times” between Christ’s first and second coming, we are called to live with purpose and faithfulness.

Peter gives four practical instructions for living well in these last days. First, believers are to be self-controlled and sober-minded so they can be devoted to prayer. Second, they are to love one another earnestly, demonstrating the kind of Christlike love that reflects the Gospel. Third, they are to show hospitality without complaining, using their blessings to bless one another. Finally, they are to use their God-given gifts to serve one another faithfully.

Through prayer, love, hospitality, and service, believers glorify Jesus Christ while awaiting His return with confidence and hope.

((Audio Only))

STUDY GUIDE

1 – When you hear the phrase, “The end is near,” does it naturally create feelings of hope, concern, excitement, or something else? Why?

2 – According to the message, how should believers respond to the reality that “the end of all things is at hand”?

3 – The sermon emphasized that Peter is not predicting a specific date but describing the period between Christ’s first and second coming. How does this understanding affect the way we live today?

4 – Why do you think Peter connects being “self-controlled and sober-minded” with prayer? What practical steps can help us become more focused in prayer?

5 – Peter says, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly” (v. 8). What does earnest, sincere love look like in a church family?

6 – How does loving one another serve as a witness to the world according to Jesus’ words in John 13:35?

7 – What are some practical ways we can show hospitality today without grumbling or complaining?

8 – Peter teaches that every believer has received a gift from God to serve others. What gifts, abilities, or opportunities has God given you to bless others?

9 – Which of Peter’s four instructions—prayer, love, hospitality, or service—do you feel most challenged to grow in right now? Why?

10 – How can your life this week bring greater glory to Jesus through intentional prayer, love, hospitality, and service?

Scripture References

1 Peter 1:3
1 Peter 4:12
1 Peter 4:7-11
1 Peter 1:20
Mark 1:14-15
1 Peter 4:5-6
Revelation 22:20
2 Peter 2:8-9
1 Peter 1:13
John 13:35
1 Peter 4:3

Mentioned but not Read
1 Corinthians 13
Matthew 22:36-40