It begins with us                    I Peter 4:12-19

4 attitudes to have to be triumphant in persecution (MacArthur):

Expect it (v. 12)

Exult (rejoice) in it (V. 13-14)

Evaluate its cause (V. 15-18)

If we suffer for ________________ reasons, we should be ashamed         V. 15

If we suffer as a __________________, we should not be ashamed           V. 16

Christians are to spend the bulk of their time in self-_____________        V. 17-18

Entrust it to God (V. 19)

Suffering in I Peter

Christ’s sufferings led to the glorious redemption of all who will believe

1:11; 3:18; 5:1

Believers should not be surprised by suffering

4:12

Suffering reveals who the genuine believers are

1:3-7

Suffering is temporary compared to the eternal glory that awaits believers

1:3-7; 5:10

Believers who suffer for the right reasons will be rewarded by God

2:20; 3:14, 17; 4:13, 19

Any unjust suffering believers experience will be avenged by God

2:23

Believers should avoid suffering for sinful reasons

4:15

Christ’s godly response amidst His suffering is our example amidst ours

2:21; 4:1

Suffering is an opportunity to glorify God

4:17

Suffering is an opportunity to witness for Christ

3:13-18

Believers aren’t alone in their suffering; other Christians worldwide understand

5:9