1 Peter 4:12-19; 1 Peter 2:13-17; Acts 4:1-22; Romans 13

The Attack . . .

Often what people attack greatest is that which they are threatened by the most.

· What threatened the Jewish religious leaders, and even Roman officials, was the message of the gospel and its effect on those to whom it was preached.

o The message of the gospel confronts the reality of our sinfulness. (Acts 2:36-41)

o The message of the gospel contends that we are in need of salvation.

o The message of the gospel confirms that Jesus is the only way to salvation.

If the message cannot be stopped, silence the messenger.(Acts 4:17-18)

· Political pressure or legal intimidation

· Discrimination

· Imprisonment

· Death

An Understanding . . .

· For believers, suffering should never be surprising, but expected. (1 Peter 4:12)

· For believers, suffering happens because you are identified with Christ. (1 Peter 4:13; John 15:18-27)

· For believers, suffering is an indication that the reputation of God is in you. (1 Peter 4:14)

· For believers, suffering magnifies the cause and name for which we suffer. (1 Peter 4:16)

Our Response . . .

· Submit to the governing authorities to the degree that you do not violate God’s commands. (1 Peter 2:13)

o Have I been asked to compromise what I know is God’s will?

§ We must obey God rather than men.

§ Be willing to pay the price for your convictions.

o Do I not want to submit because of philosophical differences; political differences; ideological differences; pride; anger?

· Let the life of Christ in you be your greatest testimony. (1 Peter 2:15)

o Follow the example of Christ

· Trust in God who judges justly. (1 Peter 2:23)