1 Peter: Week 9 (Wednesday 30th June 2021)

(from www.insightforliving.org.uk)

Chapter 3:13-17

The Heart Of The Matter

Being creatures of equity, we like things to be fair. In theory, we have little patience with preferential treatment or unjust reactions. Sides are to be balanced. Right should lead to pleasant rewards and wrong to painful consequences. We should take turns. The “little guy” deserves a break. Bullies ought not be allowed to push around others. Those who work hard and commit themselves to a job well done deserve more than those who are lazy and take advantage of the boss. If one gets a break today, another should have the same break tomorrow. “It’s only fair,” we say. That’s fine . . . so long as life cooperates with that game plan. The problem is, however, that fair play doesn’t always prevail. Right isn’t always rewarded, and wrong isn’t always punished. On the contrary, many times those who are unethical, dishonest, and cruel seem to come out as winners. These few verses from Peter’s pen will help us endure such times of inequity.

Discovering The Way

1. Two Different and Distinct Perspectives

The human perspective on unfairness says that because life isn’t fair, we’re going to do whatever it takes to get our share. However, the divine perspective is on a longer timeline: in the end, God will demonstrate His justice for all.

2. Some Helpful and Insightful Techniques (1 Peter 3:13 – 16)

How can we deal with life’s unfairness in a Christian manner? Peter offered five responses. First, consider yourself uniquely blessed by God. Second, don’t panic and don’t worry. Third, acknowledge Christ as Lord even after this event. Fourth, be ready to give a witness. And fifth, keep a good conscience.

Starting Your Journey

1 Peter 3:17 reminds us of a useful, overarching principle: unjust suffering is always

better than deserved punishment.