What other scriptures emphasize enduring suffering for righteousness' sake? Rooted in 1 Peter 2:19 “For it is commendable if someone endures sorrow while suffering unjustly because of conscience toward God.” Jesus Sets the Pattern • 1 Peter 2:21-23 — He “left you an example,” never retaliating though reviled. • John 15:18-20 — “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated Me first.” New Testament Echoes of Righteous Suffering • Matthew 5:10-12 — “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness… great is your reward in heaven.” • 1 Peter 3:14 — “Even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.” • 1 Peter 4:12-16 — “Do not be surprised at the fiery trial… if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed.” • 2 Timothy 3:12 — “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • Philippians 1:29 — “It has been granted to you… not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.” • Romans 8:17 — “If indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him.” • James 1:2-4 — “Consider it pure joy… the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” • 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 — “Persecuted, but not forsaken… the life of Jesus may also be revealed.” • 2 Corinthians 12:10 — “When I am weak, then I am strong.” • Hebrews 10:32-34 — Early believers “joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property.” • Hebrews 11:35-38 — Saints “were destitute, oppressed, and mistreated,” yet commended. • Acts 5:40-41 — The apostles “rejoiced that they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.” • Revelation 2:10 — “Be faithful even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Old Testament Foreshadows • Psalm 34:19 — “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all.” • Isaiah 53:3-7 — The Suffering Servant “was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth.” • Daniel 3:16-18 — Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego risk the furnace rather than compromise. • Jeremiah 20:2-9 — The prophet is beaten and put in stocks for speaking God’s word. • Job 13:15 — “Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him.” Why These Passages Matter • They show suffering for righteousness is normal, not exceptional. • They anchor our endurance in Christ’s own example and promise of reward. • They remind us that present pain is temporary, while glory is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). • They encourage joyful steadfastness, knowing God counts such endurance “commendable” (1 Peter 2:19). |
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