April 6, 2025 - 1 Peter 3:13-22
April 6, 2025
1 Peter 3:13-22
Lessons Learned
by Wayne Gaeddert
1. God's divine favor (being blessed) is on those who end up suffering for what is right and good.
2. Don't allow threats to weaken your resolve to follow Jesus.
3. Facing adversity without losing hope will be a testimony to those around you.
4. Be ready to tell people about Jesus when they ask.
5. Don't live a daily life that negates your testimony.
6. Jesus is our example in suffering.
7. Suffering is not a constant activity; it comes in spurts.
8. If you are called upon to suffer for Christ, know that something good will be the end result. Rom 8:28 “… in all things God works for the good of those who love him ...”
9. Outside the ark, the water destroyed all life.
10. Inside the ark, the water lifted them to safety.
11. Without Jesus, judgment will eternally separate you from God.
12. “The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord,
but he loves him who pursues righteousness.” Proverbs 15:9
13. “Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God.” 3 John 1:11
14. By receiving Jesus' free gift of salvation, you will be presented faultless to God.
15. It is the resurrection of Jesus that gives the Christian hope.
16. God's approval of Jesus' work on earth:
a) Now Jesus is at the right hand of God. (Power, preeminence, and authority)
b) Angel, authorities, and powers are in submission to Jesus.
17. All powers are subject to Jesus—who am I to rebel against Him?
18. “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18
19. The 'good' that came from the suffering of Jesus was to bring you to God.
20. Let others see Jesus in you if you are called to suffer for the cause of Christ.
21. In the past, God's judgment came by water. To prepare for that judgment, they needed to believe the preaching of Noah and enter the ark to be saved.
22. God's future judgment will be executed by Jesus. To prepare for this coming judgment, you must seek the forgiveness of your sins from Jesus—the one who died for your sins, was buried, rose again, and ascended to the right hand of the Father.
23. Application:
When Jesus is first and foremost in your life, the fear of suffering will not rule in your life. Your fear of the Lord will motivate you to stand firm in your commitment to Him.
Don’t let opposition take you by surprise, but be prepared to defend your position of faith in Jesus.
As you defend your position of faith in Jesus, make it inviting for them to follow your example.