[10/23/2022 PM] - "Unsurprised by Painful Suffering" - 1 Peter 4:12-19

Thank you to Rev. Gray for leading and preaching for the evening service. His sermon TRANSCRIPT is attached and also available at: https://theseed.info/sermon.php?id=2172

"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you."
– 1 Peter 4:12

Message: Unsurprised by Painful Suffering
Text: 1 Peter 4:12-19

I. This passage reminds us that we should not be surprised when we suffer for being a Christian (12).

We suffer because:

1. We are identified with Christ (13, 16; Acts 11:26; Matt 15:18-21)

2. Through suffering we are blessed spiritually (13-14; Matthew 5:10-12)

3. It is hard to be saved (17-18) and our sanctification includes suffering "according to God's will" (19a) as we are tested (12; 1 Peter 1:6-7)

II. When you suffer because of your faith in Jesus:

1. Rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ (13, 16; Acts 5:41)

2. Commit yourself to your Creator (19b); He will uphold you even as He brings judgment on those who reject the gospel (17)

3. Continue to do good (19c), making sure that you are suffering for your identity with Christ, not because of evil conduct (15)