1 Peter 3:13-17
Do you believe the statement that God is good all the time?
The WHAT of suffering
What is suffering? It is literally training in righteousness. It is difficult things that God sovereignly allows in our life that grows us and shapes us.
The WHO of suffering
Who will suffer? All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
The WHY of suffering
Why does God allow suffering? Because it deepens our faith and makes us dependent on God for our strength.
The HOW of suffering
How should we react in the midst of suffering? We are to suffer in such a way that makes Jesus attractive.
The Instructions
- Cheer up!
1 Peter 3:14, Matthew 5:10 - Step up!
1 Peter 3:14b, Isaiah 8:12
Give up your fear, give up your fright, give up your worry, and give up your habit of being intimidated. - Lift up!
1 Peter 3:15 - Speak up!
1 Peter 3:15b
We must be gentle. Don’t ever confuse arguing with answering. - Shape up!
1 Peter 3:16
It may be God’s will that we should suffer for doing right. If that happens, then let’s be sure we are suffering for the right reasons.