The Truth and Suffering

The Truth Will Set You Free
Written By Tommy Smith

SET FREE FROM THE POWER OF SIN!
THE TRUTH AND SUFFERING!

KEY PASSAGE

1 Peter 4:12-19 ESV… 12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

WHEN THE TRUTH IS TRAMPLED UNDERFOOT

  • When the truth is trampled underfoot, so too are those that hold to that truth.

  • Biblical Christianity is now seen by many “progressives” as a religion of hate.

  • Christians should prepare themselves for the suffering that might be headed our way!

  • The truth can set us free from confusion… frustration… hopelessness… despair… 1 Peter 4:12-29

DON’T BE SURPRISED WHEN YOU SUFFER FOR BEING A CHRISTIAN

  • This truth about suffering keeps Christians from getting caught off guard… 1 Peter 4:12

  • Jesus said suffering would be common to those who are his disciples… John 15:18-20

  • Paul said everyone who lives a godly life will be persecuted… 2 Timothy. 3:12

  • What should concern you is if you are never persecuted… Luke 6:26

REJOICE WHEN YOU SUFFER FOR CHRIST’S NAME

  • Believers are to rejoice when they suffer… 1 Peter 4:13

  • Believers will be glad when Christ’s glory is revealed… 1 Peter 4:13; Romans 8:16-18

  • The disciples rejoiced in their suffering… Acts 5:40-41

  • When we suffer the Spirit of glory rests upon believers… 1 Peter 4:14; Acts 6:12-15

DON’T SUFFER FOR THE WRONG REASONS

  • Don’t confuse suffering for Christ, with suffering for bad decisions you make… 1 Peter 4:15

  • Believers should never be ashamed when they suffer for the right reasons… 1 Peter 4:16

IF JUDGMENTS BEGINS WITH US… IT’S COMING TO ALL

  • God’s judgment upon believers leads to sanctification… 1 Cor. 11:31-32; Heb. 12:7-11.

  • God’s judgment upon unbelievers is eternal punishment… Mt. 25:31-46

  • When suffering believers should entrust themselves to God who is our faithful Creator… 1 Peter 4:19

  • The way to NAVIGATE IS TO CELEBRATE the persecution that comes our way!

Tommy Smith
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