Suffer

Our passage today is often quoted in the context of apologetics—theology used in the defense or proof of Christianity. Certainly, we should always be prepared to explain the main points of Christianity. At the same time, context ultimately determines meaning. The context here addresses a coming persecution when the recipients of this letter may have to suffer for their faith. Peter exhorts them to stand firm for Christ and be ready to profess him as Lord even in the face of imminent suffering.

Peter wrote his first letter to the believers scattered throughout what today is Northern Turkey. The letter was penned in late AD 64 or early 65. During that time, believers in Rome were experiencing intense persecution. It is probable that Peter was in Rome, watching the persecution firsthand. Normally the physical mistreatment of believers started in the larger cities, then spread through the countryside. Peter warned his readers that “now for a little while,” they may have to suffer. But like fire refines gold, so trial refines faith.

Ask God to give you the desire and discipline to read his Word every day.

The Apostles followed hard after Jesus during their lives and in their deaths. They committed “themselves to their faithful Creator.” They were not only great teachers; they are great examples of suffering according to God’s will.

The entire Old Testament shouts, “Jesus is coming!” And the New Testament celebrates and proclaims the fact that He has come.