1 Peter 3:13-17

Be Prepared

1 Peter 3:13–17 NRSV

Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil.

Voice Blurb

And just like that we are back to talking about suffering… In 1 Peter 3 this week we are again confronted by suffering as Peter addresses the early Christians. In between these sentences about suffering however, there lies the full call to evangelism. Make Christ your priority, share Christ as your one true hope, do this in humility. If you don’t want to talk about sharing your faith you may want to sit this one out. I hope to see you Sunday!

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topics

evangelism, suffering, No fear,

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Intro: I first remember this verse from summer camp…Camp Fun in the Son

1 Peter 3:13 NRSV

Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good?

—> Christians aren’t popular, this new religion isn’t popular. The idea of helping people out, being

1 Peter 3:14 NRSV

But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated,

—> Do not fear

—> do not be intimidated

1 Peter 3:15 NRSV

but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you;

—> sanctify Christ as Lord

—> sanctify means to set apart, elevate, honor, make holy

—> Christ as Lord

—> not friend, not savior, but Lord

—> Always be ready to tell anyone who asks why you have hope.

1 Peter 3:16 NRSV

yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.

1 Peter 3:17 NRSV

For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil.

“But in your heart set apart Christ as Lord, and always be prepared to give the reason for the hope that you have, but do this with gentleness and respect. “

The Wesleyan Bible Commentary, Volume 6: Hebrews–Revelation 3. The Suffering for Righteousness’ Sake (3:13–17)

There is a difference between surrendering to Christ as a Savior from one’s sins and enthroning him as the Lord of one’s life. Only the born again person can make Christ Lord, and He must be Lord of all.