SUFFERING

There are certain waves of feelings like "crushed', 'overwhelmed', 'devastated','torn', that wash over those who suffer, obliterating hope and threatening to destroy them. Suffering comes in many forms - physical abuse, debilitating disease, social ostracism, persecution, etc. The pain and anguish tempt a person to turn back, to surrender, to give in.

Early followers of Christ were suffering and being abused and persecuted for believing and obeying Jesus. Beginning in Jerusalem, the persecution spread to the rest of the world. It climaxed when Rome determined to rid the empire of the "Christ-ones", those who would not bow to Caesar.

Peter knew persecution first-hand. He was probably in Rome when the great persecution under emperor Nero began. Beaten and jailed, he had been threatened often. He has seen fellow Christians die and the church scattered. So, Peter wrote to the scattered church giving comfort and hope.

Peter used several images that were very special to him because Jesus had used them when He had revealed certain truths to Peter.

Peter's name (which means "ROCK") had been given to him by Jesus.

Peter's conception of the church - a spiritual house composed of living stones built upon Christ as the foundation - had come from Christ. Jesus had encouraged Peter to care for the church as a shepherd tending the flock. Thus, it is not surprising to see Peter using living stones and shepherds and sheep to describe the church.

Peter begins by thanking God for salvation. He explains to his readers that trials will refine their faith. In spite of their circumstances they should believe; for many in past ages believed in God's plan of salvation, even the prophets of old who wrote about it but didn't understand it. But now salvation has been revealed in Christ.

In response to such a great salvation, Peter commands them to live holy lives, to reverently fear and trust God, to be honest and loving, and to become like Christ.

He carries on by referring Jesus as the ' chosen and precious cornerstone' upon whom the church must be built.

Next, Peter explains how believers should live during difficult times. Christ should be the role model in all social roles. He should be our model for obedience to God in the midst of great suffering.

Peter then outlines the right attitude to have about persecution: Expect it, be thankful for the privilege of suffering for Christ and trust God for deliverance.

Next, Peter gives some special instructions: Elders should care for God's flock, younger men should be submissive to those who are older, and everyone should trust God and resist Satan.

As you read 1 Peter, remember that trials will come to refine your faith. When they come, remain faithful to God and in that way, fulfill the purpose of this letter by getting encouragement to the different sufferings!