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Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Suffer for Good

Bryan Schneider · December 14, 2024

1 Peter 3:13-17

sharonrpc.org/sermons/suffer-for-good

Summary

  • Christians may suffer real loss for doing what is right, but no persecutor can take away the joy, peace, hope, or love secured for them in Jesus Christ.
  • Rather than fearing threats, believers imitate Christ, remember their heavenly blessing, and set apart the Lord as holy in their hearts.
  • A Christian should be ready to explain the hope found in Christ, speaking with meekness and reverence rather than pride, anger, or argumentative aggression.
  • A credible defense of the faith is joined to a good conscience and conduct that reflects God's commandments, confesses sin honestly, and rests in Christ's righteousness.
  • It is better to suffer according to God's will for doing good than to suffer for evil, because faithful conduct can shame false accusations and glorify God.
  • Jesus walked this path before his people, and the Holy Spirit enables them to cling to him and endure without returning evil for evil.

Reflection and discussion

  • Is Christ so precious to me that I am prepared to bear loss rather than deny him or do evil?
  • Which threat or possible consequence most tempts me to fear people rather than revere God?
  • Could I explain clearly why my hope rests in Jesus Christ alone?
  • Does the manner of my defense display meekness and reverence, or pride and a desire to win?
  • Am I honest about my own sins and failures, confessing them rather than pretending to have a good conscience?
  • Does my ordinary conduct support or undermine the gospel hope I profess?
  • Where must I choose doing good even though obedience may bring suffering?

Key terms

Suffering for righteousness
Bearing loss, slander, threats, or persecution because one follows Christ and does what God calls good.
Apologia
A reasoned defense or answer given when someone asks why a Christian has hope.
Meekness
Strength governed by humility and gentleness rather than pride, rage, or the need to overpower another person.
Good conscience
An inward testimony shaped by union with Christ, honest confession of sin, and conduct pursued for God's glory.
Sanctify the Lord
To revere God as holy and precious in the heart so that loyalty to him governs fear, speech, and action.
Perseverance
Continuing in faith and good conduct through suffering because God preserves his people in Christ.

Notes and prayer