From the very beginning of the Christian movement, followers of Jesus experienced opposition and various forms of persecution. In a certain sense, this was to be expected. Many of the Jews regarded the movement as an aberrant movement that recognized a false messiah, while many of the Romans and Greeks perceived Christianity as strange and even as a threat to the unity of the empire. Christianity ran directly counter to Greco-Roman society in many ways, not least is that its adherents worshipped one God alone and did not embrace and recognize many deities. The exclusive nature of Christianity made Christianity stand out during the first century and was one of the main causes of the continuous mistreatment that Christians experienced as they sought to live out their faith in a world that is opposed to the gospel message.
Writing to believers who were experiencing significant opposition, and were undoubtedly facing significant discouragement, the apostle Peter reminds his readers that persecution is to be expected in a world that is opposed to Jesus Christ. When trials come our way, he explains, we should not be surprised and bewildered, as this is to be expected of those who follow Christ. Of course, simply understanding why persecution exists and expecting it does not make it easy to endure. Peter offers several helpful admonitions to his readers as they seek to navigate all the difficulties that come with following Jesus as Lord. He reminds them, for example, that we can take joy when we suffer knowing that those who suffer for the sake of Christ are blessed and that God has not forsaken or forgotten his people. One day Christ will return. Until this time, His people are to faithfully serve Him, even when this proves to be difficult.
Upon reflection, please answer the following questions.
- As you think about this passage, are there any principles that you believe can be applied to your personal situation?
- What might be the relevance of this passage for believers today?
- Is persecution and opposition to God’s people something that continues in our society today? Explain your response.
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