Our last two Messengers have dealt with the persecution of the Church.

First, we were reminded that there is ONE Body of Christ – and each believer, from every nation, is a member of the same Body.

Second, as a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), we are commanded to intercede for the entire Body of Christ.

Finally, the persecuted should be an example for us, so that we would have the courage to cling to Christ no matter the cost. Today, we will see how Peter prepared the Church to endure the trials of this world.

1 Peter 4:1 says, “Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin.”

To stand firm, we need to arm ourselves with the same attitude as Christ. 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” It is so easy to abandon faith and give in to fear. If we cower under minimal, or even perceived, threats, how will we ever stand under severe pressure? To stand firm tomorrow, we need to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit, today, to proclaim, in both word and deed, the Gospel of Jesus without fear.

Peter continues in verse 2, “As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.”

To stand firm, we need to be clear where our allegiance lies. Instead of being prepared to forsake living for this world, we must do so today. The willingness to die for Jesus starts with a commitment to live for Him. As Paul said in Philippians 1:20,21, “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Peter continues in verses 7 & 8, “The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

To stand firm, we need to pray earnestly. When things are good, prayer is easily neglected. Complacency is a very dangerous enemy. The key to fervent prayer is to “love each other deeply.” The more deeply we love the Church, the more earnestly we will pray for all her members.

Peter concludes in verse 19, “So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”

To stand firm, we need to commit ourselves, today, to serve the Lord. We need to commit to pray for each other fervently, to love each other deeply, and to live each day for the Lord courageously.

Blessings,
Pastor Barry