The world sees Christians as fools, as weak.  They love to mock those who follow Jesus.  Persecution is to be expected, but how do we as Christians deal with it?

Peter in this chapter is addressing the Christians in the Roman Province (modern day Turkey) as they were beginning to be persecuted for their faith.  He seeks to encourage them to hold steadfast to the example that Jesus gave them: hope in the midst of suffering.

1 Corinthians 1:18  “For the message of the cross is foolishness for those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”

John 15:18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.  If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”

1. Benefits of persecution
   1. Produces endurance
   2. Persecution further grows the church.
   3. Gives us life

To really live, one must find something worth dying for.

1. Our Reaction.  How do we endure?
   1. Obey God and leave the consequences to Him
   2. Good Pain/Bad Pain
   3. See Him in the mirror
   4. Never let them see you sweat

Personal Application/Reflection

Questions to ask yourself in your time with the Lord

1. Do I share my faith regardless of what people’s reaction might be?
2. Who might the Lord be leading you to speak with despite your fear of persecution or of being mocked?  Begin to pray for that person, pray that the Lord would open a door for you to speak to him/her about Jesus, boldly.

Table Talk

1. Have you ever been persecuted or mocked for your faith in Jesus?  How did you react?  How did it make you feel?
2. 1 Peter 2:21 says, “to this you were called”.  What is your reaction to this verse?
3. Why do you think the world looks at Christians as fools?
4. Have you ever hesitated to share your faith for fear of what someone might think, say or do?
5. How can Jesus’ example (vs 21-23) help you when you are being mistreated?
6. Reflect on the following quotation: “To everyone wanting a safe, untroubled, comfortable life free from danger, stay away from Jesus.  The danger in our lives will always increase in proportion to the depth of our relationship with Christ.”    –David Platt, Radical

April 10, 2011 * The Way Christian Fellowship * Steve Matson, Teaching Pastor

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