Living Hope Day 8

Living Hope Day 8 Reading:

1 Peter 2:18-25 

Ponder

After exhorting his readers to submit to authority, Peter next turned his attention to slaves or workers. He was writing to people who were actively suffering for their faith, perhaps at the hands of unfair masters or bosses. But rather than encourage anger or outbursts, Peter stressed the value of treating these authority figures with respect, even when treated unfairly. When we do wrong, it’s reasonable to expect punishment. But those who endure suffering for doing what is good will be rewarded by God. 

Our example in this is Jesus. Scholars believe that verses 21-25 might incorporate an early Christian hymn or confession of faith, but Peter uses these verses to stress that when we suffer for being faithful to God, we are to imitate Christ, who never sinned, yet bore great pain and suffering so that we could be saved. 

As we examine this section of the passage, focus on a few valuable truths Jesus’ example provides for us today.

• Even in the face of great suffering, Jesus was never deceitful. Sometimes we think that lying might make the suffering stop or that a “white lie” doesn’t matter, but even when facing great pain and harsh treatment, Jesus remained sinless and spoke the truth. 
  

• Jesus didn’t return insult for insult or seek retaliation. When we are insulted, our first inclination may be to turn those hurtful words back on the other person. When someone deeply hurts us, there’s usually a part of us that wants to hurt them back. But Jesus didn’t insult or retaliate against those who lied about him, beat him and abused him. Instead, he submitted to authority and trusted God, believing that ultimately he will vindicate his children and punish those who do wrong. 
  

• Jesus died for us. The sinless Son of God, Jesus carried our sins to the cross and took our punishment for sin so that we might experience salvation. His righteousness makes us right with God and provides the healing our sin-sick hearts need. 
  

• Jesus is our authority. In verse 25, Jesus is described as our “shepherd” and the “overseer” or “guardian of our souls.” The emphasis here is on his authority as the leader of the church and the overseer who rules over the lives of believers. To become a Christian is to accept Christ as your Savior and your Lord, the one who has authority over your life. 

Journal

• When I’m treated unfairly, how do I most often respond? 

• Does my response reflect Jesus’ example? Why or why not? 

• Are there ways I’m trying to be the authority in my life rather than submitting to Christ? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any ways you’re seeking to rule your life rather than trust Jesus as your Shepherd and Overseer. 

• Reflect on verses 21-25 and Jesus’ powerful, atoning sacrifice on your behalf. Journal your prayer of praise for Jesus’ sinless life and all that he endured to set you free from sin.