Hey there! I want to share with you a bible study book that I just finished. I enjoyed each day of the lesson and gained so much insight that I probably wouldn’t have by reading through 1 Peter alone. 1 Peter: A Living Hope in Christ by Jen Wilkin is a great study tool for those looking to go deeper in their study of God’s word. Written as a letter, the book of 1 Peter is strategically divided into a 9-week bible study. Jen Wilkin explains how believers have a living hope in Christ through the themes of suffering and glory echoed throughout Peter’s letter to the dispersed churches.
OVERVIEW
From cover to cover this study provides practical and thought provoking content that will help you understand the message, the Apostle Peter is conveying. Just a few lessons into the study, you will discover who the Apostle Peter is, why he is writing to these churches, and how we as modern believers can apply the relevant truths of this letter to our lives. Wilkin breaks up the book of 1 Peter into 9 lessons, each covering a short portion of scripture. The focus passage for the week is examined closely then viewed in the context of the entire letter. She starts out her book by explaining the importance of studying the Bible and outlines a helpful process for understanding scripture. In her introduction, she also explains how studying the Bible is an eternal investment!
MY REVIEW
Reading the Bible can be overwhelming especially if you don’t know where to start or what you are looking for. That unknown place where I don’t know what I’m looking for but I know I’m looking for God. There my friend is the place where God will meet us. I found this study most useful in the way the book challenged my understanding by asking questions targeted to my way of thinking. Over time I noticed my focus shifting from what I think this passage says to what is God revealing to me in this passage. I went from my opinion to God’s truth.
The funny thing about our thoughts is that they drive our words, actions, habits, and ultimately determine our character. If I want to be a woman of godly character then my thoughts have to align with what His word says. Specifically in 1 Peter I gained a renewed mindset on my identity as a believer, biblical submission, and humility. Wilkin explores the ideas of a believer’s security in Christ, how biblical submission is a good thing, and the blessing of humility.
Suffering as a Christian is a central theme in 1 Peter. Reading through it has really shaped my view of why God allows suffering and His purpose for it. I also learned how my response to the suffering I experience can give glory to God. Overall I was deeply convicted to live a life in obedience to God. I was confronted with some tough questions I had to ask myself. I mean it’s easier to follow Christ when life is going well but will I choose to obey Him even in the midst of suffering? Will I choose to honor Christ in my heart above all things?
FINAL THOUGHTS
With humility as my garment, obedience on my feet, God’s word as my guide, Christ as my example and by the power of the Holy Spirit; God’s grace rests upon me. 1 Peter is a short book packed with encouragement and hope for the believer longing for the return of our Savior!
Our inheritance through Christ is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. In 1 Peter, a man of faith and flaws and eyewitness to the life of Christ challenges us to look beyond our current circumstances to a future inheritance….
This study book is geared toward individual study coupled with small group discussion and video teaching. However, I completed the book individually and benefited greatly. This fall my small group will dive into the material together. I look forward to witnessing the benefits of studying it in a group setting. The weekly structure encouraged me to read daily, which is a springboard for spiritual growth. Also, the variety of the types of questions Wilkin asked kept my attention and provided practical application for my life. This relatable book study is for women at any spiritual level who desire to search the scriptures in depth.
RESOURCES
Here’s where you can purchase a copy of the Bible study. She also has other similar studies if you want to check those out on her website. You can find her at jenwilkin.net.
In case you missed it, be sure to check out my last post in marriage.
Shameka
