1 Peter: Being Formed Into the Image of ChristSample

Suffering as a Result of Our Allegiance to Christ

Earlier in this reading plan, we considered the idea that "on our pilgrimage home, it shouldn't surprise us that we will experience tension, conflict, and suffering as we live in the in-between." As we travel the long and treacherous road home, it can be natural to want to pursue comfort and security, insulating ourselves from any possible suffering — even suffering we might experience because of our allegiance and devotion to Christ and His kingdom. It can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that the Christian life is solely about arriving safely at our eternal destination. To fall into this trap is to forget that along the journey, God's will for our lives is that we might be fully transformed into His likeness so that we might partner with Him in advancing His kingdom here on earth.

As we journey through life, God has strategically placed many unique people in our path. People who have been created in the image of God, whom He loves dearly. Some are far from God, wandering in the dark alone. Others believe in God but aren't sure about Jesus. And some believe in Jesus but have not yet been transformed into His image. To each of these groups, God calls us to intentionally let our lives be a living testimony of His goodness. To this end, 1 Peter 3:15 NIV reminds us to "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."

Even when our testimony is delivered with gentleness and respect, there will be people who will reject us for our allegiance to Christ. Despite any suffering we may experience for the cross of Christ, we can trust the promise that after we "have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called [us] to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish [us]." (1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭10‬ ‭NRSV‬‬)

Additionally, we can trust that our suffering is not in vain. Some will reject our testimony, but others will surrender their lives fully to Christ, beginning their own beautiful pilgrimage home. For this reason, Peter writes, "Conduct yourselves honorably among the Gentiles, so that, though they malign you as evildoers, they may see your honorable deeds and glorify God when he comes to judge." (1 Peter‬ ‭2‬:‭12‬ ‭NRSV‬‬)

Lord Jesus, forgive us for all too often choosing comfort and security over intentionally letting our lives be a living testimony for You. Despite the temporary suffering we may face, please help us to surrender our lives for the sake of so many who don't yet know You. May our lives be a reflection of You so that Your name might be glorified throughout all the earth.