Elect Exiles - Part 11

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

1 Peter 4:15–17 ESV

But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

1 Peter 4:18 ESV

And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”

1 Peter 4:19 ESV

Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

Introduce section: This is summary of what it means to be an exile according to Peter.

1 Peter 4:12–14 ESV

(1) You will suffer

Don’t be surprised

Another reference to “mental readiness” (being prepared for something to be hard ready’s you for the challenge)

Fiery trial. Might literally be talking about burning at the steak.

Something strange… This should be expected.

Rejoice (compare James 1:2-4)

In what? That we “share” or “participate” with Christ.

Christ’s suffering is beautiful, and to grasp the magnitude of it will draw you to participate in it. (compare Rom 8:16-17)

How will we participate? A richer, fuller understanding.

Be blessed

Blessing comes through the presence of the Spirit of God through your suffering. (compare 1 Peter 3:14)

Which would you rather have:

A life without trial, and also without God?

Or, a life with trial, and also with God?

James 1:2–4 ESV

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Romans 8:16–17 ESV

The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

1 Peter 3:14 ESV

But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,

1 Peter 4:15–17 ESV

1 Peter 4:18 ESV

And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”

(2) Suffer for righteousness

All suffering comes from sin (worldview issue)

Suffer for righteousness

As “Christians” (derisive, derogatory), don’t be ashamed, because you’re bearing the name of Jesus

It is better to endure suffering as a Christian now, and be tested, sanctified, purified, than to be eternally judged

Quotation from Proverbs 11:31.

1 Peter 4:19 ESV

Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

(3) Trust God

This is the summary verse of the summary text

We lack knowledge, God knows everything

Who would you rather trust?

Your suffering is according to God’s will

Entrust. Give yourself to GOD for safe keeping

God is faithful

Don’t trust your knowledge of God, trust God

Romans 8:28 ESV

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

1 Peter highlight reel

1 Peter 1:1 ESV

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,

1 Peter 1:3–7 ESV

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2:11–12 ESV

Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.

1 Peter 3:9 ESV

Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.

1 Peter 3:15 ESV

but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,

1 Peter 4:12 ESV

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

1 Peter 4:19 ESV

Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

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