Defending the Hope

DEFENDING THE HOPE

(1 PETER 3:13-22)

Every Christian should be prepared to defend their hope of heaven, which is pictured and promised in baptism.

  • Defend the Hope (not the Faith) (vv. 13-18)

  • The Hope Pictured in Noah’s Ark (vv. 19-20)

  • Defending Your Hope to Your Neighbors (and Children) (vv. 21-22)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Read 1 Peter 3:15. In the past has this verse brought excitement or fear? Why? Has that changed? How?

Tuesday—Read 1 Peter 1:3-4. What is the difference between defending “the faith” and defending “the hope within you”? What is your hope?

Wednesday—How is Noah’s ark a picture of Jesus? How can it help you in explaining your confidence to a friend or neighbor?

Thursday—Think of the Christians you know. What are the most common ways that your friends have come to faith in Jesus Christ? How should that guide you (and comfort you) when sharing your faith?

Friday—How is baptism a picture of the gospel? How can parents use it to explain their hope to their children?

Brett McNeill

Brett McNeill has been our pastor since we began in 2004. He and Jen have been married since 1998 and have four wonderful daughters. Brett is a graduate of Westminster Seminary in California (Masters in Divinity, 2003). His desire is to clearly proclaim Jesus Christ from all of Scripture in a way that is clear, convicting and encouraging.