1 Peter 4:12-19

Introduction: Are you a CHRISTian? Is there enough EVIDENCE to convict you of being a CHRISTian? Persecution comes along with the territory. That is one proof you are a child of God! Paul said, “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution,” (2 Tim 3:12).

Have you ever been persecuted? How should we respond to persecution?

Impetuous Peter, the sand man turned into the rock man understood about being persecuted. Carnal Peter failed miserably, and yet the Spirit-filled fisherman who became a devoted disciple stood courageously! Ultimately, he tasted death by being crucified on a cross upside down according to tradition. Jesus had forewarned him, and us too! Writing to those who were being persecuted and suffering because of their faith in Jesus Christ, Peter encourages believers to prepare. Here are three (3) steps to prepare for persecution.

1. As CHRISTians, we can EXPECT PERSECUTION! (1 Pet 4:12)

“12Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you”

{The word “strange” is xenízō which means shocked, surprised}

Personal Application: Most of us are shocked and surprised when we experience persecution, even though Peter warns us to be ready.

**Get Ready

2. As CHRISTians, we can be EXERCISED by  PERSECUTION! (1 Pet 4:13, 14)

“13But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.”

{The word “partakers” is koinōnéō, which means partners, fellowship}

{The word “reproached” is oneidízō, which means rail at, chide, heap insults, rebuke – v 14}

{ Peter says, we are “blessed” – happy are you}

Personal Application: When we respond properly, it can be a time of spiritual growth and blessing!

3. As CHRISTians, we can ENDURE PERSECUTION! (1Pet 4:16-19)

“15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters. 16Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. 17For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 18And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? 19Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”

{Peter is saying there is a vast difference in being persecuted for righteousness sake versus being a gossiper or meddler in other peoples business} 

A lot of what goes on today is really not persecution but our own self-inflicted offenses. This judgement Peter is referring to is the JUDGMENT SEAT of CHRIST- for all believers (2 Cor 5:10).

Personal Application: When we are persecuted, we ought to give God glory!

Conclusion: Suffering & persecution is God’s special prescription for His Saints. In this God-ordained process, He grows us, and changes us. Peter reminds us we should EXPECT it, be EXERCISED by it, and ENDURE it.

 And by God’s GRACE, not “if” but “when” we are persecuted we can give Him GLORY!