Which other scriptures emphasize the blessing of suffering for righteousness? Setting the Scene in 1 Peter 3:13–14 “Who can harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.” Echoes of Jesus in the Gospels • Matthew 5:10-12 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.… Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” • Luke 6:22-23 – “Blessed are you when people hate you, exclude you, insult you, and reject your name as evil because of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven…” Snapshots from the Early Church • Acts 5:41 – “The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name.” Paul’s Voice from Prison and Beyond • Romans 8:17-18 – “If indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him.… the sufferings of this present time are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.” • 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 – “Our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison.” • Philippians 1:29 – “It has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.” • 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • 2 Thessalonians 1:4-5 – “Your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring… so that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.” Peter Reinforces His Own Theme • 1 Peter 4:12-14 – “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial… But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ… If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed.” Other New-Testament Voices • Hebrews 10:34-35 – “You… joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, knowing that you yourselves had a better and permanent possession.” • James 1:2-4 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials… so that you may be mature and complete.” • Revelation 2:10 – “Be faithful even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Why These Passages Matter • Suffering for righteousness is not an accident; it is a promised pathway to deeper fellowship with Christ. • Every passage links present pain with future reward—kingdom, crown, glory, maturity. • Joy in trials is possible because Scripture assures that God sees, rewards, and uses suffering to shape Christ-likeness. |
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