Returning to the Shepherd

 Returning to the Shepherd
1 Peter 1:1-2

Hearers of the Word:

THEME: Like Peter, we can stray like sheep but are graciously pursued, restored, and recommissioned by Jesus, the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls (1 Peter 2:25).

Question: Who was Peter?

I. Peter's Early Days: Called from the Ordinary

a. Peter's identity: Apostle of Jesus Christ, author of two epistles

b. Peter's character: Bold fisherman turned apostle, highs and lows, pride and ambition, featured in Gospels, Acts, art, and writings

c. Peter’s calling:  invitation became an impulsive passion

d. False claims about Peter: Refutation of primacy, superiority, papal succession, etc., supported by Scriptures (2 Cor. 11:5, Gal. 2:11, 1 Peter 5:1)

II. Peter's Growth in Acts: From Failure to Faithful Leader

Observation:  When one looks at the book of Acts, we see the fruit of lessons Peter was learning.  The man who once denied Jesus now preaches boldly at Pentecost, declaring Him as Lord to thousands (Acts 2:14-41). Three thousand souls are saved that day!  {This was only the beginning}

III. The Heart of the Matter: Sheep Going Astray (1 Peter 2:25)

Point to ponder:  Peter's personal testimony: "For you were like sheep going astray but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls" (1 Peter 2:25).  While the temptation to scatter and retreat after sin is real – the overseer of our souls is calling upon  us to repent and be restored.

Doers of the Word:

1. Consider a time when you felt like an "elect exile" (1 Peter 1:1)—chosen by God but feeling like a stranger in the world.

2. What "highs" and "lows" in Peter's life stand out to you?  How does his impulsive passion both help and hinder his faith journey?

3. Read John 21:15-19. Why do you think Jesus asked Peter "Do you love me?" three times? How does this mirror Peter's denials, and what does it teach us about God's grace after failure?

4. Read 1 Peter 2:25 and Isaiah 53:6. Peter describes believers as straying sheep who return to the Shepherd. In 2026 how can you turn from a  "straying" moment and return to Jesus.

Prayer:

"Heavenly Father, thank You for Peter's example—a reminder that failure isn't final. Strike our hearts with Your grace, draw back any who have strayed, and grow us through this study of Your Word.
- In Jesus' name, Amen."