DownloadNov. 2, 2009 issue
A suffering people
Lesson for November 15, 2009 — 1 Peter 4:12-19
By Carmen AndresPage:
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God’s plans for our redemption are deeply connected to his covenant community. The new covenant community that forms with Jesus is an important part of those plans. This community centers on Jesus and his new opportunity. And, just like Jesus, it will inevitably clash with the culture around it.
Andres
Sometimes that brings suffering and persecution. How are we to face that? Peter gives us some insight.
Remember the big picture
Peter tackles suffering throughout his letter to believers experiencing persecution from an antagonistic culture. He begins by encouraging them to remember they’ve been “born again” with “a life conceived by God himself” (1:23). Living that life changes how they approach each other and the world — including how they think about and deal with suffering.
He reminds them that Jesus suffered — and if they are living like him, they will too. So, Peter tells them, “Since Jesus went through everything you’re going through and more, learn to think like him” (4:1, Message). Look at it as an opportunity to become more like him: “a weaning from that old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you’ll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannized by what you want” (2).
So, don’t be surprised by trials and persecution, Peter says: “Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner” (12-13).
If you suffer because you’re living like Jesus, Peter tells them, that’s evidence that the Spirit “rests on you” (14, NIV). This is different from suffering because you do something wrong: If you suffer because you live like Jesus, “be proud of the distinguished status reflected in that name!” (16, Message)
In addition, as we allow suffering to refine us, we’re being prepared for final judgment: “If it starts with us, think what it’s going to be like for those who refuse God’s Message!” (17)
So, Peter essentially says, remember the big picture: “Take it in stride” (19). And he reminds them once more to respond to suffering by continuing to trust God and by doing “good” — which, in Peter’s letter, comes down to love.
Facing trials and persecution
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Comments
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I found your site to very helpful of course I had to do a little background work on anabaptist, I am baptist and not heard of the religion anabaptist this goes to show that we all have some learning to do everyday.
thank you for your help in helping me with my Sunday School lesson
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