What does it mean to "suffer according to God's will" in 1 Peter 4:19? Framing the Verse 1 Peter 4:19: “So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should entrust their souls to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” Key Phrase in Focus “Suffer according to God’s will” points to hardship that God knowingly allows for the believer’s growth and His glory—not random pain or deserved punishment. What Suffering According to God’s Will Is Not • Punishment for sin you refuse to confess (Hebrews 12:6–7 reminds us God disciplines, but that’s different) • Consequences of wrongdoing (1 Peter 4:15: “Let none of you suffer as a murderer or thief…”) • Mere inconveniences or self–inflicted trials What It Is • Persecution for righteousness—“It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.” (1 Peter 3:17) • Sharing Christ’s path—“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example.” (1 Peter 2:21) • A refining fire that purifies faith—“The tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold… may result in praise.” (1 Peter 1:7) Why God Ordains Such Suffering • Molds Christ-like character (Romans 5:3-4) • Displays the gospel to onlookers (Philippians 1:13) • Rewards eternally—“Our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory.” (2 Corinthians 4:17) • Affirms true sonship—“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12) How to Respond 1. Entrust your soul—hand the outcome to “their faithful Creator.” 2. Keep doing good—no retreat into bitterness or compromise. 3. Rejoice in identification with Christ—“Rejoice insofar as you share in the sufferings of Christ.” (1 Peter 4:13) 4. Rely on grace—“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) Encouraging Examples • Apostles: “They left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been counted worthy to suffer disgrace for the Name.” (Acts 5:41) • Early church in Smyrna: “Be faithful even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10) • Paul: “I rejoice in my sufferings for you… filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions.” (Colossians 1:24) Practical Takeaways • Expect opposition when living faithfully. • Remember suffering is purposeful, not pointless. • Anchor trust in God’s character, not circumstances. • Continue outward-focused goodness—service, kindness, gospel witness. • Keep the eternal perspective: glory outweighs pain (Romans 8:18). Those who suffer according to God’s will can rest secure: the faithful Creator holds their souls, and every act of steadfast goodness echoes into eternity. |
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