What other scriptures emphasize suffering for righteousness' sake? The Anchor: 1 Peter 3:17 “For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.” Echoes in Jesus’ Own Teaching • Matthew 5:10-12 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake…” • John 15:18-20 – “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first… If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well.” • Matthew 10:22 – “You will be hated by everyone because of My name, but the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.” The Example of the Early Church • Acts 5:41 – “The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been counted worthy to suffer disgrace for the Name.” • 1 Peter 2:19-21 – “For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example…” • 1 Peter 4:12-16 – “If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed…” Paul’s Letters: Suffering Is a Gift • Philippians 1:29 – “For 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 godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • Romans 8:17-18 – “If indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him.” Hebrews and Revelation: Keeping Eternity in View • Hebrews 11:24-26 – Moses “chose to suffer oppression with God’s people rather than to experience the fleeting enjoyment of sin.” • Hebrews 13:13 – “Let us go to Him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace He bore.” • Revelation 2:10 – “Be faithful even unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Key Themes to Carry Forward • Suffering for righteousness is normal, not an anomaly. • Jesus promised both opposition and reward. • Shared suffering unites us with Christ and His people. • Eternal glory outweighs present pain, encouraging faithfulness today. |
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