“Blessed are the peacemakers…” – Jesus
Observations
- Your actions must come from a new heart
- Be an active agent of peace
- Remove the nails by forgiveness & leave justice to God
READ: 1 Peter 3:8-12
Peter continues in the same pattern set by Jesus from verse 2:23 “when they hurled insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats.” What is the reason that Peter gives for obeying Jesus’ example in verse 3:9? What conclusions do you draw from vs 12 and the consequences of good vs evil actions?
READ: 1 Thessalonians 5:15
The word Paul uses for ‘pay back’ means “to deliver what is owed.” Why do you think it is so hard to keep from ‘paying back’ wrong for wrong?
READ: Romans 5:6-11
How has God dealt with you sinfulness? Can you see how God’s actions have become the standard for us?
READ: Psalm 103:8-12
Explain verse 10? What do you think your sins deserve? How close is your character to God’s found in verse 8?
READ: Romans 12:17-19
Once again we see the command “do not repay evil with evil”. Then verse 18 commands you to “live at peace with everyone.” How can you flip it, and repay “good” for “good”? How do you think “good” actions will produce peace? How does verse 19 teach us that God will deal with all wrongs? Why is it so important that we understand God will ultimately judge? How does that allow you to turn the other cheek? Bonus READ: Proverbs 11:21