May 17, 2020 Discussion Questions

Marriage for Sojourners
Discussion Questions
  1. The instructions in this passage about marriage go against the messages we usually hear from the world. We have to choose if we will come under God’s Word and allow God to be our authority. What are some other examples of Christian teaching that go against the messages we often hear from the world?  Are there certain teachings in the Bible that are difficult for you to accept?
  2. In v.1 he says for wives to be subject to their husbands. He also said for servants to be subject to their masters (1 Peter 2:18). How would you respond to someone who said that this teaching about marriage is dated just like the teaching about masters and servants is dated?  What are some key differences between how the Bible presents slavery and how the Bible presents marriage?  Are there times when a wife should not be subject to her husband and not follow his leadership?  Explain. 
  3. If you are married, what are some ways you could more faithfully follow the teaching in this passage? If you are not married, what are some ways this passage should inform your thinking about a potential spouse? What are some key qualities you should look for in a spouse?
  4. In 1 Peter 3:3-4 we learn we should focus more on internal beauty than external beauty. Why do we often put more emphasis on the external? Why do you think God puts more emphasis on the internal?  What are some practical steps we can take to make sure we are emphasizing the internal more than the external?
  5. In 1 Peter 3:7 we learn that husbands should be understanding and honoring. What does it look like for a husband to be understanding and honoring? The standard and example that is given for husbands is the way Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25).  What are specific ways Christ loved the church that can motivate the way husbands love their wives?
  6. This letter is written to sojourners who are struggling with difficult situations. For example, he mentions the Christian wife whose husband is not a believer. He encourages us by pointing us to Christ who was the ultimate sojourner (1 Peter 2:21-25).  He came to love us and make us His bride.  Why is it essential we experience His love before we can truly experience other types of love?  Why should knowing Christ and His love make us better husbands and wives?