Persecution: Persecution is the norm for the church.[1] Given this reality, Peter gives us the right perspective with which to see it. He tells us that persecution (13-14) is for the “testing” (12) of the church. It reveals who’s a genuine believer and who’s not.[2] Under its pressure, false brethren defect (no one suffers for what they don’t truly believe) and true ones remain. Persecution is the refiner’s fire that separates the gold of faith from the dross of unbelief.
Right Response: Peter enjoins us with five proper responses to persecution. First, we maintain composure. Even as the football linemen are trained to anticipate the defensive team to charge, so Scripture readies us for opposition. We expect persecution; and when it comes, we are not alarmed. Second, we rejoice. Persecution is the validation of our solidarity with Christ. The world hated our Lord; they will hate us also (John 15:18-19). This simply confirms that we are truly saved (Phil. 1:28). This is a cause for joy, not grief. Third, we look ahead. The glory of heaven awaits the people of God. We will behold the glory of the Lord (13) and we will be glorified with Him (Rom. 8:17). We suffer a little while now; we’ll exult forevermore. Fourth, we stand tall. There’s no shame in suffering for Christ. We hold our heads high and keep honoring God as disciples of Christ. Fifth, we trust in God. Nothing touches us outside the will of our faithful Creator. He keeps His world in perfect order; no evil will ever thwart His plan. God will bring all His children safely home to glory.[3]
[1] The doctrine of Christian suffering echoes throughout the New Testament. Suffering for Christ was the normative for believers (Acts 14:22; Rom. 8:16-18; Phil. 1:29; 3:8-10; 1 Pet. 2:21; 3:14-17). Jesus Himself prepared us for this (Matt. 5:10-12; 10:17-18, 21-22, 28; 13:21; Mark 10:29-30; John 15:20; 16:33).
[2] As in 1:6-7, trials (like persecutions) test and confirm our faith as genuine (Dan. 3:16-18; Heb. 11:24-27).
[3] Cf. Rom. 8:28-30; 35-39. Jesus loses none of the Father’s elect given to Him (John 6:39; 10:28-29; 18:9).