Living Without Fear
1 Peter 3:13-22
Although Christians in many places throughout the world are persecuted for their faith, that rarely is the case for those of us in America. Here, we are more likely to think of suffering as what we give up as believers – for example, certain friends or the immoral behavior associated with them. Or we may even think of suffering in other ways, such as having health difficulties or losing a loved one. Whatever the form of our suffering, persecution or otherwise, we can prepare for it. We don’t have to live in fear of having any of these troubles or being discouraged when they happen. Instead, we can take steps to face them with confidence.
Peter begins to outline these steps to his dispersed audience of believers in 1 Peter 3:13. He opens with a rhetorical question, affirming that it is unusual for most people, even those who are hostile to the faith, to harm believers who are zealous to do what is good. Even in the worst environments, there aren’t many people who would have a problem with someone who is characterized by generosity, kindness and thoughtfulness for others. But even in the rare situation where a believer suffers for doing good, they are still blessed. Suffering is an opportunity to be blessed because it produces proven character and hope in the believer (Romans 5:3-4). By focusing on these blessings rather than the suffering, believers can have confidence rather than fear. God is the only one to fear (Isaiah 8:12-13), and He is working every situation for good.
In addition to focusing on their blessings, the sufferer should strive to maintain a clear conscience, as expressed in 1 Peter 3:15-17. Christians are called to sanctify (set apart) Christ in their hearts, meaning to give Jesus the primary place of adoration and exaltation. He is the only object of our love, loyalty and obedience, even if that results in suffering. We should always be ready to provide a defense for our faith and have a lifestyle that backs up our testimony. With clear consciences, we can face the world without the burden of the guilt of sin.
Peter concludes the discussion on unjust suffering of believers with the example of Jesus and how His unjust suffering achieved God’s purpose. Jesus illustrated the truth of 1 Peter 3:17 by suffering for the sins of the unrighteous in order to bring us to God (3:18). Although opinions vary on the interpretation of verses 18-22, we can be certain that the dead will not have another chance to receive Christ (Hebrews 9:27). Believers should focus on following Jesus’ example when enduring unjust suffering, having confidence that God will bring good from the difficult situation.
Sands– Lessons in the ETB series for the fall quarter are being written by Alex Sands, pastor of Kingdom Life Christian Center, Greenville.