Articles
Suffering Through First Peter
Suffering Through First Peter
The life of Christians during the first century is remarkably different than ours of 21st century America. They were the 'new kids on the block' as far as religion is concerned. Their religion was exclusive in that it stood opposed to all others [that wasn't any more popular or politically correct then than it is now]. Hence, they suffered FOR being Christians.
The prophets foretold that the Christ would come BUT would suffer (1:11). He did come and he DID suffer. Peter in fact states several times: Christ suffered… (2:21; 3:18; 4:1). He didn't suffer as an evildoer, but rather undeservedly (2:21-24). His suffering was for and on behalf of others [US!] (2:21; 3:18). In his suffering, he did not retaliate or return evil for evil (2:23). God the Father glorified Him (1:11).
Thus, Peter holds out Jesus as our great example – the example of suffering to the glory of God. He mentions that these early Christians were suffering AS Christians and NOT just partaking of the discomforts and hard situations of life. He describes it as a 'fiery trial' (1:7; 4:12). He demands that they NOT suffer as evil doers, but rather that they make sure that all such suffering that came their way was undeserved (4:15).
How can people endure such suffering? First, they would endure by recognizing it for what it is: the world and ungodliness responding to God and righteousness. Second, they would endure by holding firm to the example of Jesus (4:1). They were thus to 'share in Christ's sufferings' (4:13). Third, they would endure by looking beyond the momentary suffering to the eternal glory that God will provide AFTER we have suffered for a while (1:7-9, 13; 5:10). Fourth, they would endure by not thinking that this is in some way 'special for us' (4:12; 5:9). It was common among the brethren in the first century. Fifth, they were to consider its function within our lives as our faith is tested and proven to be genuine (1:7). Sixth, they were to make sure that all such suffering was unjust and undeserved (2:19). They were NOT to suffer as evildoers – for such suffering would be deserved! Rather they were to do good and be willing to suffer for IT (2:20). They were to suffer as Christians, not as evildoers (4:15). They were to suffer for righteousness' sake (3:14). Seventh, they were to ENDURE (2:20). They were not to become discouraged and disheartened by such. They were to take courage and continue to serve the Lord. Those who suffer according to God's will are to entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while continuing to do good (4:19) even as Christ entrusted himself to God (2:23). Hugh DeLong
