Our scripture this morning is 1 Peter 3:13-16.
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened. But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Peter asks “who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” Sadly, we have many martyrs of the faith that were harmed for their belief in Christ and their good works. As Jesus tells us in John 15:18 “if the world hates you, keep in mind it hated me first.”
However, Peter reminds us “even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.” Jesus is our example and our guarantee! Our Lord says “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul” – Matthew 10:28. While we don’t seek conflict or suffering, Jesus will bless us and our work for the kingdom even when we face persecution.
This passage emphasizes our responsibility to continue to behave as God’s children no matter how the world treats us. We must “do this with gentleness and respect.” Regardless of the response we are called to continue sharing God’s love.
Heavenly Father, we are grateful to be called Your children and blessed to go in Your name. Strengthen us to stand against evil in the world, bringing the Good News to all. Amen.
