Christ Through the Ages, 20: 1-2 Peter–In His Steps

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.IntroductionLike all the letters, 1-2 Peter are intended to help us to grow, to continue to live as disciples of Christ to the very end.2 Peter – growth through knowledge1 Peter – growth hrough sufferingThe translations relied on in this lesson are the NIV and that of biblical scholar J. Ramsey Michaels.The theme of suffering in 1 Peter1 Pet 1: Faith refined in fires of suffering – persecution is starting already, or is on the horizon. In the 60s AD there was a general souring of imperial relationships, though nothing like what it will be 40 years later, once Christianity became illegal.1 Pet 2: Unjust suffering, as opposed to suffering we bring on ourselves or deserve.1 Pet 3: Suffering and hard times affect relationships, e.g. marriage and those within the church family.1 Pet 4: We are to arm ourselves with a robust attitude towards suffering, just as Christ did, and then we will be finished with sin. We can share in Christ’s suffering. Opposition may come in the form of being mocked for taking a strong stand.1 Pet 5: Patience in suffering, knowing our brothers and sisters worldwide are also suffering, and being convinced that, eventually, the Lord will lift us up.Unjust sufferingServants – beaten or mistreated by cruel masters (2:18). In the next section, we read of wives, who may be hurting at hands of unbelieving husbands (3:1).Yet all Christians are servants (2:16), so Peter's words to servants (2:18-25) apply to us all.Isaiah 53 lies in the background of 1 Peter 2:21-25. This passage is perfectly suited to the point, as this is the famous chapter on the Suffering Servant, and the best known prophecy of Jesus Christ in all the O.T.2:23 suggests verbal abuse (like 4:4 -- notice the theme in the epistle of Christians being alienated / aliens in the world).Remember the life of our Lord, esp. his last 24 hours, before Annas and Caiaphas, Pilate, Herod, the soldiers, and the contemptuous crowd at the cross. He did not return threats with threats. While we may be tempted to lash out, to trade insult for insult, Jesus exhibited grace.In his stepsOur devotional passage (epitomized in 1 Peter 2:21), applies to all of us. Occasionally, if not often, we find ourselves unfairly treated. And frequently, probably daily, we must adjust to unpleasant circumstances or unpleasant people.We are called to reject the impulse to demand our rights, or insist on our way.Christians are to be gracious, not ugly. NotSpeaking hatefully  when mocked by unbelieversWriting threatening letters or emailsCommunicating in a disrespectful or distant demeanor, or in derogatory words or tones.Driving selfishlyBehaving impatientlyActing like the Judge -- as opposed to leaving our opponents in God's hands.When we can control ourselves in the small things, then we have a chance to follow in his steps when things really get hard. Besides, the day is coming nearer and nearer when Christians are ostracized globally. How will we behave before our enemies?Jesus did not demand his rights. He did not call down curses, retaliate in word or deed, or conduct himself vindictively -- ever.Rather, he demonstrated a fineness of his character and the genuineness of the Holy Spirit. And he calls us to follow in his steps.Next talk: 1-3 John: Christ & Antichrist.