“If anyone suffers as a Christian”
1 Peter 4:16 “Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name” Peter gives three clear commands and reveals a divine purpose behind such suffering. 1️⃣ “If anyone suffers as a Christian” Peter is very specific: This is not suffering because of sin, foolishness, or wrongdoing (see 1 Peter 4:15). It is suffering because you belong to Christ. Biblical Examples • Jesus Christ – Rejected, beaten, crucified for who He was (see Isaiah 53:3) • Stephen – Killed for preaching Jesus (Acts 7:54–60) • Apostle Paul – Imprisoned, beaten, mocked (2 Corinthians 11:23–27) • Apostle Peter – Later crucified for Christ (John 21:18–19) 📌 Truth: If you follow Christ faithfully, opposition is inevitable “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” — 2 Timothy 3:12 ⸻ 2️⃣ “Let him not be ashamed” The world uses shame to silence believers. God commands boldness without embarrassment. Biblical Examples • The Apostles – Rejoiced after being beaten “They left the council rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.” — Acts 5:41 • Daniel – Public prayer despite death threat (Daniel 6) • Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego – Refused to bow, even facing fire (Daniel 3) 📌 Truth: Shame is a weapon of the enemy; confidence honors God “Whoever acknowledges Me before men, I will acknowledge before My Father.” — Matthew 10:32 ⸻ 3️⃣ “But let him glorify God in that name” Suffering does not dishonor God — how you endure it can glorify Him. Biblical Examples • Job – Worshiped God in loss (Job 1:20–22) • Paul & Silas – Sang praises in prison (Acts 16:25) • Jesus on the Cross – Obedience glorified the Father — John 17:1 📌 Truth: God is glorified when faith stands firm under pressure. ⸻ 🎯 Is There a Purpose in This Suffering? Yes — Scripture gives multiple divine purposes: ⸻ 🔥 1. Refinement & Purification “Though now for a little while… you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith… may result in praise.”