Aug 18, 2014
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)