“Suffering to Victory- Jesus our Example”   10/28/07

1 Peter 3:18-22

 

1 Peter Series- “Living for the Glory of God in a Hostile World”

 

“Therefore… whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Cor 10:31

 

“Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.”

2 Timothy 3:12

FACETIOUSLY- remind them of speeding requirements

 

POINT 1- During suffering or persecution, Jesus is our EXAMPLE of VICTORY

 

A.   The example that Jesus gives shows us that there was a PURPOSE

(1) Jesus was persecuted and suffered when he didn’t DESERVE IT

(2) Jesus’ goal in suffering was to bring us TO GOD   (Heb 6:20)

 

 

B.    The example that Jesus gives shows us that there was a PROCESS

(1) To accomplish our reconciliation, Jesus needed to be put TO DEATH

(2) After suffering spiritual death for us, He was made alive IN SPIRIT

 

C.   The example that Jesus gives shows us that there was a PROCLAMation.

(1) Jesus went and proclaimed victory to those in PRISON

                (2 Peter 2:4-6; Jude 6; Matthew 12:40; Colossians 2:15)

          (2) Water was the means of salvation, but also of DEATH

“For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life.”  2 Cor 2:15-16

 

D.   The example that Jesus gives shows us that there was a PAYOFF

(1) There is a heavenly reality that demonstrates ultimate VICTORY

      (Mark 10:35-41 – Baptism or immersion into suffering)

          (2) Jesus is our supreme example of receiving a reward after SUFFERING

                (Colossians 2:15; Philippians 2:9-10; Hebrews 2:14)

 

 

Going           God expects us to see Jesus as a victory, and so are we!   (John 16:33)

Deeper