I wrote this sermon for Methods of Bible Exposition at Bob Jones University on January 30, 2002.
Introduction: Suffering and Persecution
1 Peter – the book of suffering; 16 times
What was the background of these people? They were suffering persecution under the rule of Nero, and they were suffering mockery from the unbelieving world.
Your suffering may not be a result of persecution, and it may not be as severe as these early Christians, but we all have in common that fact that we face difficulties of some sort, whether physical suffering or mockery for your Christian testimony.
Why don’t we face mockery for being Christians? A large part of it is definitely where we live, but a large is also our failure to live bold and courageous lives that testify of God to a needy world. We are complacent not to make a scene, not to draw to much attention to ourselves. Maybe we are fearful of the response that people may give us.
But regardless of what we are facing by way of suffering or persecution, God’s word speaks to the issue, especially this book of 1 Peter. And I would like for us to consider how we are to respond to the difficulties that we face in this life.
You must respond properly to difficulties.
I. We must not return to sin in the difficulties of life (vv. 1–6)
How not to respond—Do not respond by sinning.
A. Because of our union with Christ
1. Christ has suffered therefore we should expect suffering as his followers
a. Throughout the book he continually reminds people of the sufferings of Christ.
b. Phil 3:10
c. Acts 5:41 – rejoice worthy to suffer for his name
d. 1 Peter 4:13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.
2. Christ suffered death freeing us from the power of sin
a. Romans 6
B. Because sin was part of our past
C. Because God will judge the wicked
D. Because God will reward the righteous
II. We must maintain godliness in the difficulties of life (vv. 7–11)
How to respond—Respond by showing love.
A. Because the end is near
B. Because of the importance of love
This is how Christ responded.
1. Be hospitable
Love of strangers
2. Use your spiritual gifts
a. Speaking his word
b. Serving by his grace
Conclusion: How are you responding to the difficulties of life? Are you using them as excuses for your sin? Are you trying to remove your responsibility to demonstrate love to others because of your hardships? Let us head these reminders tonight and remember to look to the one who suffered for us.