MAY 17, 2023 – FOOTSTEPS OF CHRIST

READ: Is. 53: 1-12

For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: ‘Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth’; who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; … by whose stripes you were healed ….  -1 Pet. 2:21-25

The readers, especially the household servants, are reminded by Peter to follow the Lord Jesus Christ, who suffered for us. This does not mean that we are to imitate His unique salvation, but instead to grow in faith by following His example. The uniqueness of Christ was His atonement, which He alone accomplished (vs.24). Our calling is to follow Christ in faith (Mt. 16:24,25).

This also includes self-denial and bearing our cross, which is to suffer for Christ’s sake. Christ suffered while innocent, but did not revile, threaten, or retaliate. Christ entrusted Himself to His Father, who judges righteously.

We must follow in His footsteps: as His followers, we should not use violence to resist unfair treatment because of our faith, nor should we complain or retaliate. We must endure what is unjustly done to us and leave it to the Lord God.

Why is this required of us? Because Christ, and thus God, wants it this way. Christ also said to His disciples, “You will be hated by all for My name’s sake.… A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master,” with the reassurance: “So do not fear.” (Mt. 10:22-33). People may seek to take our lives, but the Lord will preserve our souls!

Should we be afraid of persecution?

Singing: Ps. 34:9