What does the Apostle Peter teach his audience about suffering for Christ?

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience - Romans 5:3

In this article we will be looking at the book of first Peter and how he addresses our suffering for Christ. We can approach this topic sincerely and reverently, knowing that the likelihood is that (according to tradition) Peter lay down his own life in a barbaric way by being crucified upside down. And that he, along with the other Apostles, endured hardship and persecution for the sake of their faith in the Lord. Some maintain that the situation of persecution described in first Peter was either during the reign of Nero (54 to 68AD) or Domitian (81 to 96AD). Either way, the text helps us relate to the hardships that were experienced for the witness of the Gospel. Suffering in Western Culture We can make a mistake in our thinking when we become passive and spoilt in a culture that is not currently inflicting hands-on persecution in our time. Despite this, we do know that in some parts of the world (such as Nigeria) there is an incredibly high price to pay for converting or publicly professing Christianity. So much so that Christian’s can lose their very lives, just like the situation was in the first century.

We should never become apathetic about our faith. We should never cease counting the cost of following Christ.

In fact, we do see persecution in lesser ways in the West. Loss of a job. Mocking by friends and peers. Accusations for standing on Biblical principles of marriage and relationships. This is often the way it begins. As society moves further and further away from a Christian worldview, those who stand firmly on its teaching start to stand out. So, the discussion in first Peter is relevant to us, even now. It's a topic that needs to be studied for wisdom in how to face these trials. The Message to Believers Peter writes his letter to born-again believers. He begins with great words of encouragement, drawing attention to the fact that our inheritance is eternal in Christ. Peter says, “To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4 KJV) And that, by faith, we are “shielded” or "kept" by God's power (v.5) This marks the first point of call by which persecuted Christians are to rest. There's a hope beyond the difficulties and trials that helps us endure hardship. And that is; to set our eyes upon the inheritance that will never fade. This idea was echoed in the song by the famous hymn writer Helen H. Lemmel when she wrote: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus

Look full in his wonderful face

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim

In the light of his glory and grace” - Helen H. Lemmel I am confident of this principle, as I personally went through a great difficulty a number of years ago. There was a mix up at the border of a country I travelled to during my days filming Christian videos across the world and the officials were suspicious of me. As a result of this, they put me in a jail cell for two days. I cannot describe how fearful and worried I was when this suddenly unfolded. I had anxiety about being locked up. But suddenly, when I lifted my eyes to heaven and prayed for God's help, a great peace came over my soul. And I knew that whatever happened, whether good or bad, Christ was sufficient to give me the strength and hope I needed. I experienced a supernatural courage that was proportionate to the trial, and I was confident God would be faithful.

Pilgrims in a foreign land Peter goes on to exhort the church to be ready “for action” (1 Peter 1:13) and to produce fruit, like self control. He reminds his readers of the cost of their salvation in Christ. The importance of their calling as Christians. “In the language of the first century it meant that the ready should literally gather up his long flowing garments and be ready for physical action” (NIV Study Bible, p. 1849). He also reminds believers that they are strangers here, which is an important note. We are not to forget that we are pilgrims in this world. We shouldn’t have attachments to the effect of anything that becomes an idol. We are just passing through. We should hold on to material things with a loose grip. "Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul" (1 Peter 2:11 KJV) We are again reminded, both in 1 Peter and the book of James that this life is fleeting. “All men are like grass” (1 Peter 1:24 KJV). This is a perspective that is integral to apply when facing persecution in this world. “For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” (James 4:14 KJV).

Persecution of early Christians under Rome

Despite our human propensity to fear, we are not alone when we face opposition or trouble. Jesus told us that there would be trials in this world, but also that He has overcome it. Charles Spurgeon, who was a famous preacher known for his powerful sermons, struggled with depression and numerous oppositions from the downgrade controversy. But, what was it that kept him going in difficult periods of his life? Spurgeon said, “Affliction is the best bit of furniture in my house. It is the best book in a minister’s library.” (“The Anguish and Agonies of Charles Spurgeon,” 25). Spurgeon knew, like many committed Christian’s, that affliction has its role in our sanctification as believers. Nothing is wasted, and God will be faithful through any form of persecution. Everything is used for good in our walk with Christ. Striking at the heart of pride Peter goes on to encourage us as Christian’s to respect authorities, even though they may be involved in causing us trouble. And just like Jesus was our example, we should follow the way He showed us in our behaviour. “Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing” (1 Peter 3:9 KJV). This admonition can strike some of us at the heart of pride. It doesn't feel natural to be led like a sheep to the slaughter and submit to this. But we know, sometimes God's sovereign plan may include it. I try to keep in mind that we know God is Just and will one day bring everything to account. And also the honour there is in following in Christ’s footsteps and being counted worthy to suffer for Him. Peter calls this a “blessing”. To suffer for what is right. He continues, “For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.” (1 Peter 3:17 KJV) Conclusion In conclusion, I've been moved by the exploration of this text. There is an apathy that can become a risk where I live in the West. Do I cherish my Bible like the persecuted church in China? Do I evangelise as much as possible? Utilising the opportunities I can to speak in public? Am I prepared for when times may become harder to be a Christian? Have I counted the cost of following Christ, like Peter did, along with the early church?