Suffering brings opportunities to point to Jesus.
1 Peter 3:13-16; 4:1-2 (HCSB)
- Have you chosen to endure difficulty for a future benefit?”
1. Suffering
1 Peter 3:13-14
- “How would you answer Peter’s question in verse 13?”
Peter wasn’t claiming that those who do good will never experience suffering. A righteous God does exist who knows all things and rightly judges all things. Therefore, your suffering will not escape His notice.
In addition to standing strong, Christians are also commanded to be ready with a defense for that faith whenever necessary.
2. Example
1 Peter 3:15-16
- Who in your life has been especially dedicated to standing for beliefs?
- What have you learned from that example?
Instructions to followers of Christ who suffer because of their faith:
- be able to understand, and explain why you believe He is the Lord.
- Faced with the very real possibility of suffering for sharing belief. Peter encouraged giving a testimony for their hope in Jesus.
- do it with gentleness and respect.
- “What does it look like to share the gospel with gentleness, respect, and a clear conscience?”
3. Equipped
1 Peter 4:1-2
- “How do we equip ourselves now to suffer well, as Jesus did?”
- Become a follower of the One who suffered in the flesh for our sins.
- Adjust your attitude to match the One who suffered in the flesh.
- We should expect to suffer, not act put out by every inconvenience.
- Instead of focusing on comfort , focus on living in freedom from sin.
“Suffering brings opportunities to point to Jesus.”
Conclusion
Make an apology for your relationship with Jesus Christ.
Be ready to share what you believe and why you believe it.
Make a public statement. Don’t believe the falsehood that faith is a private matter.
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