20240810

don’t miss mistreatment

1 Peter 3:13-16 (JDV)

1 Peter 3:13 Who then should mistreat you if you are devoted to what is good?
1 Peter 3:14 But even if you might suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear or be intimidated,
1 Peter 3:15 but in your hearts keep sacred Christ the Lord, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.
1 Peter 3:16 Yet do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that when you are accused, those who verbally attack your good conduct in Christ will be put to shame.

don’t miss mistreatment

Peter had written that Christians should return a blessing even when done wrong or insulted (3:9). Here is a gospel reason to do that. It gives an opportunity to share Christ with those who wrong you. Anyone who holds Christ’s Lordship as sacred will be looking for opportunities to witness. Mistreatment is one of those opportunities. Don’t miss it.