3/2/2014
The Example of the Cross
…you should follow in His steps.
The Lord’s Suffering on the Cross Is the Model for My Behavior
1st Peter 2:21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.
Some Suffering Can be Self Inflicted
1 Peter 2:19-21 …it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called…
Don’t Let Suffering Provoke Sin In You
1 Peter 2:22 “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.”
Mt 27:4 …I have sinned, for I have betrayed innocent blood. (Judas)
Mt 27:19 While Pilate was sitting on the judge’s seat, his wife sent him this message: “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man…
Lk 23:41 …we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.”
Lk 23:47 The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, “Surely this was a righteous man.”
Jn 8:46 Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me?
Resist Retaliation When Personally Attacked
1st Peter 2:23 When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate…
Control Knee Jerk Reactions
1st Peter 2:21…when He suffered, He made no threats.
Trust in God’s Ability to Address What You are going Through
1st Peter 2:23 …Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him Who judges justly.
Spiritual Maturity Accepts & Carries the Failings of Others
1 Peter 2:24 He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds you have been healed.
His Behavior is What Saved Us
1 Peter 2:25 For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.