Pastor Scott describes the heavenly job that all exiles must pursue. The text for this message of the “Exiled in America” series is 1 Peter 1:13 – 2:10.
Growth Group Questions:
1. Pastor Scott defined holiness as “complete separation from sin coupled with complete devotion to God’s honor.” How would you define holiness?
2. 1 Peter 1:17 – 21 tells us that the precious blood of Jesus Christ should motivate us to be holy. How does Jesus’ sacrifice motivate you towards holiness? What are some factors that encourage you away from holiness?
3. Describe a specific time in your life when your love for another person demonstrated your love for God.
4. Read 1 John 3:11 – 18. Why do you think the Bible makes such a strong connection between loving other people and the sincerity of one’s love for God? Do you agree with this correlation? Why or why not?
5. Give real life examples of the following behaviors that are destructive to community. Be as specific as possible.
- Malice
- Deceit/Guile
- Hypocrisy
- Envy
- Slander
6. 1 Peter 2 is an important chapter developing the belief of the “priesthood of all believers.” The priesthood of all believers means that the entire church has direct access to God through Christ alone. Every true believer may approach God boldly at any time (see also Hebrews 4:14 – 16). What is comforting about this belief?
7. What is one thing you can do to have your pursuit of holiness result in proclaiming God’s excellencies to others?