3:14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2001). (1 Pe 3:14). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
The church is under persecution across the globe. Friends in India face legal battles and threats of death, as they continue to spread the Gospel. ISIS continues to broaden its grasp in the Middle East and beheads professing Jesus. In an interview with “Fox and Friends” on March 8, 2015, Rev. Franklin Graham said, “I believe we’re going to see persecution in this country. We’ve already seen many laws that have been passed that restrict our freedom as Christians.” These facts ring true even further as I recall words of encourgement expressed to me personally on a trip to India in 2013. Many of those pastors who have themselves been persecuted expressed a commitment ot pray for America, as they can see that persecution is coming our way.
1 Peter has had several mentions of the sufferings experienced by the church (1:6-7; 2:12, 19-21; 4:12-19; 5:9-10). In 1 Peter 3:14 we are drawn back to very similar words used by Jesus in Matthew 5:10-12. God promised blessing. There is no need to fear, but to rejoice. Our trust and hope should be in Christ alone.
While my flesh is anxious, as the father of two girls; my heart is overwhelmed with gladness as this likely reality at the likelihood of persecution in America. All around us we see signs of Jesus’ eminent return, and around the globe His church is growing, in the midst of persecution.
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