The Triumph of Christ

In this passage, Peter tells us the outcome of the great battle of world history. Christ triumphs! Believers who know the outcome of history can take heart in the face of our suffering so that we do not back down or resort to our old ways of life. Instead, we can continue to follow the example of Jesus who also suffered for doing good. 

Sermon Outline:

I. Take heart, Christ has died and triumphs over sin.

II. Take heart, Christ has risen and triumphs over death.

III. Take heart, Christ is reigning and triumphs over hell.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. How does understanding that Christ has already paid for all your sins change the way you think about suffering or difficulty in your Christian life? Where might you be tempted to believe God is punishing you rather than fathering you?

2. Share about a time when following Jesus has cost you something (a relationship, an opportunity, respect, comfort, etc.). How can knowing the outcome of the story help us face that kind of suffering?

3. If you’ve been baptized as an infant or later after you believed, how does your baptism serve as a reminder and encouragement that you share in Christ’s death and resurrection? If you have never been baptized, what is holding you back? 

4. What would it look like practically for you to invest more fully in Christ’s kingdom this week?