The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon on April 26, “A People Refined to Rejoice” (1 Peter 1:6–9). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection. 

Outline

Introduction: Paradigm of Sorrowful and Rejoicing

1. Purposefulness of Our Trials (1 Peter 1:6)
2. Proving of Our Faith Through Trials (1 Peter1:7a)
3. Preciousness of Our Faith From Trials (1 Peter 1:7b–9)

Application: Set Free from Pain Management

Discussion Questions

• What does it mean to live in the paradigm of “sorrowful and rejoicing”? How does that free me to do both more fully?
• Why are trials necessary? How long should we expect them to last?
• What is God showing us about our faith in the midst of trials?
• How do trials refine our faith like gold is refined in the fire? Why is our faith so precious?
• Why will we receive“praise, glory, and honor” when Jesus appears?
• How does our refined faith produce refined rejoicing?