Where did you see Christ working in you this week?  When was your faith challenged or strengthened?  What gospel proved encouraging to you? 

  

Why did you become a Christian?  Why have you remained one? 

  

Read 1 Peter 3:13-17.  What stands out to you about this passage?  What does it mean to “give a defense to anyone who ask you for a reason for your hope?  What is the difference between giving a defense and arguing to be right?   

  

What question do you fear being asked about your hope? 

  

Why is suffering necessary for hopefulness?  What is the example of suffering with hopefulness?  How does Christ’s power, as described in this passage remind us that our suffering is being used by God to accomplish his purposes? 

  

Who in your life is suffering now?  What is a story from your own life, about hope in the midst of pain, could you share with them?  Pray for the opportunity to testify about the resurrection through telling your story.  Pray that God would use your words, and your posture to speak spiritual reality to them.  By faith, afterwards leave it with the Spirit.