1 Peter: The Persecuted Church

1 Peter 3:8-22

Public sentiment turning against Christians…

Transition: We need to know how to respond…

Main Idea: Even if the entire world turns against Christians, we must persist in doing good

1. The Christian default is to do good (1 Peter 3:8-12)

Explanation: We are strangers, sojourners, and exiles. As citizens of God’s kingdom, our default should be to do good—to bless others, to refrain from evil and deceitfulness in our interactions with others, to pursue peace with those around us. We occasionally bring persecution on ourselves through our hostility; we should be known for our goodness…

Illustration: Kid in Kenzie’s class…

Application: Live as redeemed people and do good…

2. Persecution should have no effect on Christians (1 Peter 3:13-22)

Explanation: Most of the time, nobody’s going to bother you if you’re doing good. Sometimes they will. Either way—keep doing good. Our example is Jesus, who suffered unjustly for us and rose victoriously—a victory Noah experienced, and a victory we will also experience through faith in Jesus…

Illustration: “Try that in a southern church”…

Application: Stay consistent in doing good as a redeemed person saved by Jesus…

Conclusion: Join the redeemed through faith in Jesus displayed in baptism; live in a way that brings more people in, no matter what you face.