Intro

Following Jesus has historically created tension between Christ-followers and prevailing societal norms. Today’s text teaches believers to have a self-understanding rooted in Christ, so they are better prepared to live as followers of Jesus within a society that is not sympathetic to their faith. When we adopt the same attitude and resolve as Jesus we can grow from the impact of suffering on our lives. The Christ-followers Peter was writing to were suffering for their unwillingness to participate in accepted cultural practices that they believed dishonored God and people. Rather than simply encouraging them to be strong Peter reminds them of the benefits of suffering, the reality of the struggle, and the hope they have for the future.