Thursday Thoughts for Parents | "An Underappreciated Passage"

This post is based on C.J. Mahaney's sermon, An Underappreciated Passage, given on July 23, 2017.

As a Christian, how do you respond to your suffering? Trials come in various forms, but is there ever any trial Christians face that is peculiar to them simply becuase they are Christians? If so, how should we prepare to respond? This week, CJ reminded us that, in one of the most underappreciated portions of this letter, Peter addresses a uniquely Christian form of suffering—persecution that comes for the sake of the gospel. He also reminded us that, when we are experiencing persecution, we are blessed!

Read 1 Peter 3:13-17

When CJ said that our persecutors may be able to hurt us, but they can’t harm us, what do you think Peter meant by this? How does the gospel encourage us in light of this paradox?

  • Consider Philippians 1:27-30. What were some of the blessings CJ reminded us are ours when enduring persecution?
  • Recall the last time you provoked questions through gospel witness and suffering. Thank the Lord for the grace to suffer well when persecution comes.
  • Consider a game plan with your kids so that they too can be prepared to shine for Jesus Christ when persecution comes (Mt. 5:16).

 

[post written by Tyson Ziegler]