Talks

As we finish our series on 1 and 2 Peter, the Apostle leaves us with the reminder that Jesus Christ is coming back. Jesus return was promised by Him and is recorded in Matthew 24 & 25. Peter tells his readers that ‘scoffers’ deny that Jesus is returning and today many churches have forgotten Jesus promise to return and to judge or separate those who have done what He has commanded with those who have not (Matthew 25v31f). Are we awaiting His return looking forward to the new heavens and new earth or are we rather at home in the old? Questions for Lifegroup: 1. Why is the thought of the Lord as Judge so counter-cultural? 2. How should we live, in light of Jesus’ second coming?

We are gleefully told that we live in a ‘post-truth’ society. In simple words, we are told and encouraged to live as though there is no such thing as absolute truth and that you can make up your own truth, believe anything you want (unless you believe there is an absolute truth) and no one has the authority to tell you otherwise. Jesus says that He is, ‘...the way, the truth and the life...’. Peter warns us that false teachers and their heresies, made up stories and lies will be amongst us. We know that everywhere the Bible and Word of God, is scorned, twisted and used to justify almost anything. Peter makes clear the judgement and condemnation that awaits false teachers and their willing followers. God has already taken care of them. Our concern should be making sure that we stick to the truth and don’t fall into the traps Satan and his false teachers have laid for us. Questions for Lifegroup: 1. How can we recognise false teachers and false teaching? 2. Why do we need to be constantly on our guard against their lies and made up stories? 3. What can we do as individuals and a church do to protect ourselves from the dangerous effects of false teaching?