The Attack On Religious Freedom

1 Peter 4:12-19; 1 Peter 2:13-17; Acts 4:1-22; Romans 13    The Attack . . .   Often what people attack greatest is that which they are threatened by the most. ·         What threatened the Jewish religious leaders, and even Roman officials, was the message of the gospel and its effect on those to whom it was preached.  o   The message of the gospel confronts the reality of our sinfulness.  (Acts 2:36-41) o   The message of the gospel contends that we are in need of salvation. o   The message of the gospel confirms that Jesus is the only way to salvation.   If the message cannot be stopped, silence the messenger.(Acts 4:17-18) ·         Political pressure or legal intimidation ·         Discrimination ·         Imprisonment ·         Death   An Understanding . . .   ·         For believers, suffering should never be surprising, but expected. (1 Peter 4:12) ·         For believers, suffering happens because you are identified with Christ. (1 Peter 4:13; John 15:18-27) ·         For believers, suffering is an indication that the reputation of God is in you.  (1 Peter 4:14) ·         For believers, suffering magnifies the cause and name for which we suffer. (1 Peter 4:16)   Our Response . . .   ·         Submit to the governing authorities to the degree that you do not violate God’s commands. (1 Peter 2:13) o   Have I been asked to compromise what I know is God’s will? §  We must obey God rather than men. §  Be willing to pay the price for your convictions. o   Do I not want to submit because of philosophical differences; political differences; ideological differences; pride; anger?   ·         Let the life of Christ in you be your greatest testimony. (1 Peter 2:15) o   Follow the example of Christ   ·         Trust in God who judges justly.  (1 Peter 2:23)