Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church-Friedheim
Celebrating our 167th Year

A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith
Acts 2:42

Easter 7
May 8, 2005
1 Peter 4:12-17; 5:6-11
Endure Suffering

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INTRODUCTION: A doctor sometimes has to tell the patient that they have a condition for which there is no immediate cure and that only time will eventually be their healer. This is not usually welcome news, since few enjoy living with suffering. Yet, living with suffering is a spiritual reality for every Christian. True? True!

In some measure all believers have hardships. Understanding their nature, purpose and outcome is part of faith, even as Peter reminds us in our text for this day. This morning Peter addresses the issue of enduring suffering when it comes our way.

I.     Consider the nature of suffering.

A.    Suffering, which results from personal wickedness is explainable.

1.   It is a consequence of sin.

2.   It should not be seen among Christian believers. “If you suffer it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.” (v. 15)

B.   Hardship that comes because of commitment to Christ is unavoidable.

1.   It should not surprise us. “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.” (v. 12)

2.   It should energize us to know that we share in what our Savior endured. “But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you ay be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.” (v. 13) 

Transition: It is one thing to know where suffering comes from, yet it is another thing to know why this is happening.

II.     Determine its purpose.

A.      Trials can remind us that our Lord also suffered. His sufferings were the most severe. He suffered as no one ever as suffered or will suffer.

B.      Struggles can show us that upholding the name of Christ, no matter how difficult, gives evidence of God’s presence with us.

C.      Judgment can convince us that our Lord cares deeply about our commitment to Him and look for leadership from His “household”. “For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of god; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (v. 17)

Transition: although suffering can take many forms, some of which are understandable but others of which cannot be explained completely, Christians know that all hardship can have purpose and value, especially if the results of it can be identified and taken to heart.

III.    Contemplate suffering’s outcome.

A.      Our helplessness will humble us. “Humble yourselves therefore under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time.” (5:6)

B.      Our predicament will awaken us. “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (5:8)

C.      Our future will enliven us.  “And the God of grace who calls you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” (5:10)

1.      The suffering will last only but a season.

2.      We will come out stronger in the end.

3.      The ultimate goal is glory!

CONCLUSION: Christians know it is not valuable to debate the existence of hardship. What has value, however, is a realization that suffering can lead by grace to a humble walk through even the most difficult life under the care of a mighty and loving Lord. Satan will “roar”. Vigilance under grace is needed. But the gift of eternal glory in Christ endures as our unsurpassed and certain goal.

 + Soli Deo Gloria +