lbs 1 Peter Introduction

lbs 1 Peter Introduction

In our study we will take this approach to Scripture. We will begin by placing our text in its historical and cultural context. We will “read the envelope.” Then we will read through the entire text multiple times, so that we can better determine what it wants to say to us. This repetition will help us move through three critical stages of understanding:

1. Comprehension  When we read for comprehension we ask ourselves, “What does it say?” A person who comprehends the account of the six days of creation can tell you specifically what happened on each day. This is the first step towards being able to interpret and apply the story of creation to our lives. 

1. Interpretation  Interpretation asks, “What does it mean?” A person who interprets the creation story can tell you why God created in a particular order or way. She is able to imply things from the text beyond what it says. 

3. Application  After doing the work to understand what the text says and what the text means, we are finally ready to ask,  

    “how should it change me?” Here is where we draw on our God-centered perspective to ask three supporting questions:

• What does this passage teach me about God?
• How does this aspect of God’s character change my view of self? 
• What should I do in response?

A person who applies the creation story (we'll use this as an example) can tell us that because God creates in an orderly fashion, we too should live well-ordered lives. Knowledge of God gleaned through comprehension of the text and interpretation of its meaning can now be applied to my life in a way that challenges and changes me. 

Matt. 22:37 Says, “Love the Lord you God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” 

The heart cannot love what the mind does not know. To know God is to know His Word. 

First, read 1 Peter every week from start to finish so by the time this study is over, you will have read it at least 8 times. (depending on how long it takes to finish this study)

Second, spend some time on your own and come back next week with information about some basic background about Peter. 

1. Who wrote 1 Peter?

2. When was it written?

3. To whom was it written?

4. In what style was it written?

What are the central themes of the letter? 

What to expect at the end of each study: 

• You will answer a few discussion questions
• You will summarize what we learned
• What is your big take-away from the study
• What does this part of the study tell you about God