In a world of hostility, the Church needs Christ-like Elders.

Because God is faithful, we can persevere in suffering.

Because the godly will suffer we must be equipped with a Christ-like mind, a godly heart, a firm foundation, and a living hope in order to be faithful to the end.

Peter encourages us to faithfully endure by reminding us of Christ’s suffering that secures our adoption, his success that strengthens our faith, his salvation that promises new life, and his sovereignty that soothes our suffering.

In Christ, we should live to be a blessing to others in a world that hates us because, through the gospel, we have a calling to bless others, a courage to face opposition, a confession to make known, and a confidence to endure suffering.

A healthy marriage is one that is a reflection of the gospel that involves Christ-like Conduct, Character, and Concern.

We can endure unjust suffering when we are mindful of God and the gospel by remembering that God rewards those who endure suffering unjustly, that Christ is our example of suffering unjustly, and that the gospel is our hope when suffering unjustly.

The Church is called to revere God by submitting to governmental authorities. The Church submits because it is God’s will, it displays the true people of God, and expresses our freedom in God. The Church submits by honoring everyone, loving the brotherhood, fearing God, and honoring the emperor.

We are called to live as light in a dark world by proclaiming the light of Christ, exposing the darkness of sin, living as holy people, and drawing others to Jesus.