Bible Study on 1 Peter: Week 1

Kregel Publications recently offered me the opportunity to do a 9-week blog tour revolving around a Bible study on the book of 1 Peter. I thought it would be a good way to start off my devotions for the year, so I jumped at the chance.

Over the next nine weeks, join me every Friday for a short review of this study that is directed to women. We are going through the study book, 1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards.

About the Book:

The letter of 1 Peter was heard by women who knew times like these. This newest addition to the Sue Edwards Inductive Bible Study series digs into 1 Peter and takes a look at the stories of real women—past and present—to teach today’s woman how to stand faithful to God regardless of her trials, however severe.   

Click here for more information on this study.

About the Author:  Sue Edwards (MA, Dallas Theological Seminary; D.Min., Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary) teaches full-time in the Christian Education Department at Dallas Theological Seminary. She has more than twenty-five years of experience teaching, pastoring, and directing women's ministries. In addition, Sue speaks at retreats, conferences, and seminars across the country. She is the coauthor of Women's Retreats and New Doors in Ministry to Women, and the author of the new Sue Edwards Inductive Bible Study series.

Week 1:

I really enjoyed my introduction into this study and to the book of 1 Peter. I've not done an in-depth study of this book, and I am looking forward to it. Plus, committing to blogging about this study every week will keep me accountable!

Each week I will answer a few questions that have been offered by the publisher during the blog tour.

·  This study (and all Sue Edwards studies) offer three levels so you can choose which level of study fits your lifestyle. As you start this study, how do you plan to use the three levels? Which level are you committing to for the next nine weeks?

     Here are the levels this question is referring to:

• The “core” questions (designated by 1, 2, 3, etc.) require a total of about an hour and a half of weekly study time, yet provide a basic understanding of the text. For busy women, this level offers in-depth Bible study with a minimum time commitment.
• The “digging deeper” questions require outside resources such as an atlas, Bible dictionary, and concordance. This level will challenge you to learn more about the history, culture, and geography related to the Bible. You will also be looking up parallel passages for additional insight.
• The “summit” questions are for those who want to probe the text even more deeply. These questions grapple with complex theological issues and differing views. You’re encouraged to investigate deeper by using an interlinear Greek-English text and Vine’s Expository Dictionary on your own. Also, you may create outlines, charts, and essays in seminary-style open-ended assignments. Some with teaching gifts and an interest in advanced academics will enjoy exploring the “summit.”

For this study, I am committing to completing the "core" questions as well as some of the "digging deeper" questions. I'm not quite ready for the "summit!"

·  1 Peter 1: 3-5 reveals the amazing riches God provides for His children. Which blessing and benefit most touched you as you read these verses? How do those blessings prepare you for whatever trials you may face?

• Living hope through Christ - What an awesome blessing to know that my hope is in Christ. And not only is my hope in Jesus who died for my sins, but my hope is in Jesus who rose from the dead and is alive! He is living and active, and he will give me strength.
• Shielded by God's power - It is both humbling and hopeful to know that God protects me. Knowing that He is powerful and that He has given me His protection makes me realize that whatever may come, it will be for His glory.

So, that's Week 1 in 1 Peter! Feel free to join me each week for this study, and please leave comments to let me know what you think!
--Shoopette