1 Peter 3:13-17 Cameron Jungels 2-13-2013

“Living Righteously even through Suffering” 1 Peter 3:13–17 Review Ø Live as God’s exiles in a hostile world (2:11-4:11).

Testify to the gospel in every sphere of life (2:11-3:12).

o Citizens to rulers.

o Slaves to masters.

o Husbands and wives to each other.

o Christians to everyone in society.

Live as God’s exiles in a hostile world (2:11-4:11).

Testify to the gospel in every sphere of life (2:11-3:12).

Respond in a godly way to suffering (3:13-4:11).

Live righteously even through unjust suffering (3:13-17).

Key Question: Why should we live righteous lives in a world that is hostile to us and our faith?

1. Reason 1: Living righteously may avoid some suffering.

1 Peter 3:13

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?

2. Reason 2: Living righteously in the face of unjust suffering brings God’s blessing. 1 Peter 3:14a

But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.

Matthew 5:10

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 5:11-12

"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

3. Reason 3:Living righteously through suffering demonstrates trust in Christ and honors him.

1 Peter 3:14 a – 15 b

"Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.“ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.

Matthew 10:26-27

“So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs.

Matthew 10:28-29

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care.

Matthew 10:30-31

And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Matthew 10:32-33

“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.

4. Reason 4: Living righteously through suffering bears witness to the truth of the gospel. 1 Peter 3:15 b

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

1 Peter 3:16

keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

1 Peter 3:17

For it is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

Why live righteously in a world hostile to our faith?

Avoids some suffering

Brings God’s blessing

Demonstrates trust in Christ and honors him

Bears witness to the gospel