Our Security (1 Peter 3:13-17)
By Chen
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. 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, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. (1 Peter 3:13-17 NIV)
Dealing with Hostility:
1. Passion for goodness – Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good?
Be in love with goodness. Make it your joy, your life & your goal.
What is goodness? James 1:27
2. Pliability in suffering – But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled…
Pliability = Adaptability
A joy, privilege & honor if face suffering in the name of Christ
3. Place for Christ – Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts
4. Preparedness to answer – always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness & reverence
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. (2 Timothy 4:2 NIV)
Know what you believe
Answer with gentleness, meekness, humility & reverence
5. Pure conscience – and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame
How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! (Hebrews 9:14 NIV)
– Confession
– Ask forgiveness
– Restitution (reconciliation)
– No procrastination
– Education
6. Perspective on options – For it is better if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil
Correct perspective on viewing trials