June 10
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THE SUFFERING THAT GOD REWARDS
15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? 19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God are to entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.
– 1 Peter 4:15-19
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In this letter, Peter differentiates two types of suffering. He groups them into two kinds. One that is brought about by one’s sins or as a consequence of a wrong choice or foolish decision. The other one is to suffer as a Christian when one is being persecuted, ostracized or ridiculed for believing in God and the truth. It is interesting to watch unbelievers suffer because they have no idea what God has done for them so they can live a life of freedom and love. It is noble to watch someone go through hardships because they are defending the truth about Jesus and the gospel. During COVID 19 pandemic, many Christian leaders are being persecuted to continue to serve the Lord and gather to worship Him. What Peter is saying here is that it is honorable to defend God’s truth even to a point of death. That was what martyrs in the bible did, just like Stephen who was stoned to death because he wouldn’t compromise his faith.
In verse 17, Peter reminds us how Christians ought to be responsible more than those who don’t know God. Those who knows God, knows his commands and are expected to follow them. While those who have never heard about the gospel are not hold accountable for something they do not know. There is a higher expectation from those who claim they believe in God than those who never knew him. In verse 18, Peter states a truth that any believer must take seriously. If believers are already struggling with the challenges and trials that come with faith, how much more those who do not know Christ or have turn their backs on him?
In verse 19, all believers are reminded of the reward awaiting those who suffer according to the will of God and for the sake of the Good News. Peter, once again, brings the focus on our Creator, who lavishly loves us and is generous to reward his faithful people.
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REFLECTION
• Why are unbelievers unable to grasp the concept of suffering for Christ?