In 1 Peter 2:12, Peter admonished us to “live such good lives among the nations that, though they may accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the days he visits us.” Then, Peter talked about what those “good lives” look like in our nation (2:13–17), in the workplace (2:18–21), and in our marriages (3:1–7)

1. 1 Peter 3:8–9 is a summary of what Peter said in 1 Peter 2:12–3:7. Look at each of the 5 instructions in these 2 verses. How does each one lead to the “good lives” the Bible calls for?
2. In 1 Peter 3:10–12, Peter quotes the ancient text, Psalm 34:12–16. He is saying, “What I am teaching you is not new.” What does Psalm 34 teach that supports the way of life Peter has been calling for since 1 Peter 2:12?
3. In 1 Peter 3:13–14, Peter seems to be responding to the question “Why are we suffering even though we are seeking to do good?” What is his answer?
4. In 1 Peter 3:15–16, Peter indicates a great opportunity we have when we have hope in the midst of tough times. What does he say? *How should we go about giving the reason for our hope in vv. 15b–16?
5. As he always does, Peter points to the life of Jesus as our example in 1 Peter 3:17–18a. What do we learn from these verses?
6. What is the main lesson you would like to apply to your life from this passage?
   

   When Times Get Tough, 2010 Study Series • Copyright © 2010, Lake Avenue Church