Humble Leaders & Followers - 1 Peter 5:1-9
Humble Leaders & Followers
(1 Peter 5:1-9)
INTRODUCTION: The Rise and Fall Podcast & The Screwtape Letters
Humility Needed in the Church Leaders
Grace and humility are needed both to lead and to follow.
• Elders: Church leaders should shepherd, oversee, and model with pure motives
and in light of an eternal perspective (5:1-4).
• Youngsters: Humbly submit to mature leaders and receive grace (5:5).
Humility Need in Spiritual Warfare
Trust God, Stand Firm, and Resist the Devil.
• Humility: Maintain proper perspective on yourself, waiting on honor from God (5:6).
• Prayer: Take your concerns to the God who cares (5:7).
• Attentiveness: Our spiritual battle is dangerous; be alert and ready (5:8).
• Tenacity & Perspective: Stand firm and lock arms to hold the line. (5:9)
Godly, humble leadership and
prayerfully prepared people
keep a church healthy.
A Senior Demon to his Trainee
The safest road to Hell is the gradual one—the gentle slope,
soft underfoot, without sudden turnings.
You will say that these are very small sins; and doubtless, like all young
tempters, you are anxious to be able to report spectacular wickedness…
But do remember, the only thing that matters is the extent to which you
separate the man from the Enemy (by this he means “Christ”).
“On keeping people from thinking deeply, it is funny how mortals
always picture us as putting things into their minds: in reality,
our best work is done by keeping things out.”
C.S Lewis (The Screwtape Letters)
Home Church Questions
1. Lead by Example:
Who is watching your example? What do they see in your life that would point them to Christ or strengthen their faith? What needs to change to make you more effective as an example to others?
2. Follow the Leader:
It takes humility to follow leadership. How are you doing with this? Are you working hard to be supportive even if it is hard?
3. Humility, Prayer, and Spiritual Warfare:
Why do you think these three things are grouped together? What might be the sequence for this in your life? This is the second reference to humility. Why is it so important in the Christian Life?
4. Ready for a Lion
What are some of the “schemes of the devil,” and in particular, which ones are particularly enticing traps for you? (Fear? Doubt? Rage? Comparison? Envy?) The list is endless, but the devil knows which ones work on you.
5. You are not alone!
Why is it helpful to know, “…the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished (completed the endurance) by your brethren who are in the world”? Share some stories you know of how Christians throughout the world inspire you to endure.
UPG FOCUS: The Kumzari of Oman They live in an isolated corner of Oman, accessible only by boat or plane. Their language, lifestyle, and tight mountain villages set them apart. Entirely Muslim and influenced by folk beliefs, they have no Scripture, no workers, and virtually no access to the gospel. Pray for God to break through with the light of Christ. Ask the Spirit to open doors for relationships, and gospel witness.