1 Peter 4: The Christian Path of Nails
SHUSAKO ENDO, THE Japanese novelist, tells the story of two missionary priests in Silence. The priests came from Portugal to Japan in the mid-1600s. At that time the Christian faith in Japan was one hundred years old. It had some 300,000 followers, a cluster of colleges, seminaries, hospitals and local clergy. But persecution had struck the church. A fragmented government united under a single cause: to become truly Japanese. And that meant erasing foreign religion, especially Christianity. Christians suffered horrible deaths. Endo's book asks why. Why the suffering? Why did God appear to sit through it in silence? And these questions are just as relevant for us today as we continue to suffer because of our beliefs.
Warming Up to God
When you learn of Christians suffering because of their faith, what questions come to your mind? Voice your questions to God.
Read 1 Peter 4. »
Discovering the Word
- According to this passage, how is a Christian different from a pagan (vv. 1-6)? (Note attitudes as well as actions.)
- Our doubts may sometimes taunt us, "Of what use is your Christian faith? God does not protect you. When your time comes, you die like the rest." How might the information in verses 4-6 help us deal with those doubts?
- What specific instructions does Peter give suffering Christians who are aware that the end of all things is coming (vv. 7-11)?
- Of what spiritual and practical value are these instructions?
- Verse 11 speaks of two forms of leadership in the early church: those who speak (teach) and those who serve. How would the purpose of church leadership as it is described here prevent a misuse of power between Christians?
- According to verses 12-19, what are some right and wrong ways for a Christian to suffer?
Applying the Word
- Think back to the questions you posed in question one. How do Peter's teachings help you deal with these questions?
- How might verse 19 become both a comfort and a challenge to you when you suffer because of your faith?
Responding in Prayer
Pray for Christians in many parts of the world who face suffering for their beliefs.
For Further Study
Ambassadors of Hope by Robert A. Seiple