1 Pe. 4:12-14
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory [1] and of God rests upon you.
- Why do some tout "good-time gospel", i.e. if you become a Christian, everything will be great here on earth?
- Why would anyone even expect "good-time gospel" after reading v. 12?
- How does Peter state that we should expect suffering?
- What connection does Peter make between suffering and rejoicing?
- How might it help to consider your suffering as sharing with Christ?
- What is the outcome of rejoicing in suffering?
- When have you been insulted for the name of Christ?
- When have you been ridiculed for behaving in a Christian manner?
- What ridicule are you trying to avoid?
- Whose ridicule are you trying to avoid?
- Is your life different enough from the world that anyone would notice?
- How might realizing that the Spirit of glory and God rests on you help you deal with the risk of ridicule and persecution?
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