The Exile's Humility

Share about a time you have had seniority. What was it like to be the most experienced or oldest person in that situation? What was it like when others looked to you for leadership?

Read Luke 22:31-34 and 22:54-62 aloud. Then Read John 21:15-19 aloud.

How do you think this experience shaped Peter? Does this story make you think of an experience in your own life? When have you experienced failure and restoration, either in Christ or in another aspect of your life?

Read 1 Peter 5:1-4 aloud.

Look back at verse 1 and identify the three things Peter says about himself. Where have we seen these ideas earlier in the letter? What do these three descriptions tell you about how Peter views himself? What does he expect for his future?

Why do you think Peter uses the metaphor of the shepherd as he instructs the elders on how to lead the church? Peter lists three sets of contrasts between how elders should and should not shepherd the flock. Take a moment to discuss what each might look like in a modern context.

What is Peter referring to in verse 4? What kind of crown do you think he is picturing? 

What does verse 5 instruct those of us who are not elders in the church to do? How is humility a key theme of this passage?

Close your time together praying for the elders of Fellowship as well as other leaders in our church.