LESSON 14 • Facing Mistreatment
1 Peter 3: 8-22

Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. “
1 Peter 3:9

Open: 

Why is it that we, as 21st century Americans, have such a difficult time believing God when He tells us that He is in charge of everything and He is responsible for the redress of grievances? Is it because we can’t envision a world where we are not in total control or one where our desires are not paramount?

In this section God has the nerve to tell us how to answer those who mistreat us .He also assures us that mistreatment will come. After all, the world killed His son. Should we expect any better?

But in the middle of our railing against this teaching, how many of us see the promise in this passage? Is our salvation not worth swallowing our pride and desire for justice? 



I. Verses 8 - 12
An appeal to our better nature and a promise of a blessing

II. Verses 13-17 
How to deal with everyday wrongs and a promise of a blessing

III. Verses 18-22 
The example of Christ and a promise of the ultimate blessing 

1 Peter is written to Christians who are discouraged and confused by persecution they encounter because of their faith. Peter encourages them by reminding them of Christ’s example, their hope of his return and the riches of their inheritance in Christ. 

Throughout the first three chapters Peter has stressed the need to trust God, live obediently and keep one's focus on God and His reward. Peter is constantly pointing them forward, exhorting them to keep their perspective, and to trust in the power and promise of God. 

As we come to the closing verses of the third chapter, Peter is now telling his reader that in spite of their best efforts, persecution will come. If they do what is right by God and man, even if they are in subjection to all whom he asks them to subject themselves, persecutions will still come. But those persecutions are temporary. If they keep their focus on God, the hard times will pass, but their reward will be forever.

Discussion

1. How much do we suffer for our faith? 

2. Does our lack of suffering make it harder to keep our focus on God?

3. In 21st century America, how hard is it to let others take advantage of us and trust God to handle it ?

4. What would happen in our congregation, or our community if we practiced what Peter preached in this passage?





John Reese lives in Maumelle, Arkansas and has been a member at Pleasant Valley since 1985.