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1 Peter 3:13-17
Peter has taught us in verses 8-12 to be of one mind; compassionate, tenderhearted, and courteousness to one another. In verse 13 Peter questions, who will harm you if you present yourselves in this way, indicating that and generally speaking, conducting one’s self in this manner does not invite hateful or disruptive behavior from others. However, Peter continues, “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed (verse 14). Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:11-12, “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Peter then gives us support from the Old Testament book of Isaiah 8:12 which states, “And so not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.”
In verses 15-17 Peter gives instructions for our defense of our faith in Christ Jesus and to, “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you…” and that in having a good conscience, those who are seeking to cause you harm or discredit in your faith in Christ Jesus may be put to shame. Peter ends this passage by teaching that it is better to live in God’s will and to suffer for doing good as the reward is blessing (1 Peter 3:14) than to suffer for doing evil which will result in condemnation for eternity (John 3:16-21).
This is a promise of blessing for those who suffer for Christ’s sake.
This is a command to always be ready to give a defense for your faith in Christ Jesus.
When someone asks us why we believe in Jesus as our Savior, or why we believe in God, we should be prepared to give an answer that is tenderhearted, compassionate, and that defends our faith in Christ Jesus and the Almighty God of all creation. This is an opportunity that God has given us to share our faith in Him with others. When someone questions our faith in God, I believe that they are showing a curiosity about Jesus and a desire to learn about our Savior. If we don’t share Jesus with them, who will? Be strong in Jesus through daily prayer, study of His word, and fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ and He will give us the opportunity to share Him with others… and His blessings are sure to follow!
Dear LORD,
Please give us the strength and confidence through our faith in Jesus to share the wonderful news of living a new life in Him with others as You present us with the opportunity to do so. Please give us the confidence in Christ Jesus to know that our reward is blessings from You when others persecute us for standing up for Jesus. In Jesus name I pray, amen.