In April, we finished our study of 1-3 John - which focused on love and truth and are part of what is known as the 7 catholic (or universal) epistles.  These epistles were not written to specific churches, such as Corinthians, Galatians, or Philippians, but instead were written to a more universal audience and are known by the names of their authors.  There are four more books of the Bible in the catholic epistles.  They are our focus for study in May and June.  Additional background information will be sent out several weeks in advance.

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Bible Study Thursday, June 12 via Zoom:  1 and 2 Peter

These books were written at a time of isolation and persecution.  At this point in his life, Peter is no longer impetuous – he has become the ROCK, whose strength, discipline, steadfastness, and obedience to Christ, Truth was essential in loving and supporting the Master’s followers and church.

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1 Peter has five chapters.

1 Peter 1:  Written to the people dispersed.  It considers and rejoices in what God has done; asks us to check our thinking (gird up our mind); be obedient; and call on God.  Finally, this chapter establishes that we are not corrupt, but born again incorruptible. Let your life match the Word of the Gospel.

1 Peter 2: Beloved, our new life is aligned with God’s promises after the example of Christ Jesus.  It reminds us what to put off or away (malice, envy, slander) and how to experience the kindness of Christ.  We have obligations as Christians and we always have our Shepherd and Guardian. 

1 Peter 3: This chapter continues the discussion about our obligations to be and do good.  It begins with marriage (you might want to reread the chapter on Marriage in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy); the importance of unity and compassion; baptism and what Christ did for us.

1 Peter 4:  Deals with our security and our opportunity to address any ordeals that come up.

1 Peter 5:  Says leaders should look to God.  Encouragement amidst persecution; promise of God’s protection, and ends with a final blessing of peace to all who are in Christ.

 

2 Peter has three chapters.  Similar to Jude, this was written to address challenges in the church.

2 Peter 1: Contains a greeting and reminders to keep yourself on the path of faith; God’s work is done – what is your part?

2 Peter 2:  Advises to watch out for false teachers.  Be alert!  They promise, but don’t follow through.

2 Peter 3: Describes the day of the Lord and God’s mercy; the idea of second coming (or everpresence of the Christ from CS standpoint) that we shouldn’t lose sight of.

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