Introduction

 

I.        Peter addressed servants, with emphasis on submission (1 Peter 2:18-25).

II.       Peter calls to mind conduct that is considered “commendable” before God.

III.      In our study tonight we shall consider:

A.       What is commendable conduct before God.

B.       Why it is considered commendable.

C.      How we can be sure to have this commendable conduct before God.

 

Text

 

I.        What Is Commendable Conduct Before God?

A.       To suffer patiently when mistreated for doing good.

B.       Is this applicable only in a master-slave relationship?

C.      So whenever we do good and suffer for it, to endure that suffering patiently is “commendable conduct before God.”

II.      Why Is This Conduct Commendable Before God?

A.       We were called for this very purpose (1 Peter 2:21-23).

B.       In view of the potential good that can result!

C.      Just as we were moved by the sacrificial death of Jesus for our sins, so we might best move others to change their evil ways by patiently doing good even when they do wrong.

III.     How We Can Be Sure To Have This Commendable Conduct?

A.       “Rejoice” that you are counted worthy to suffer (1 Peter 4:12-14; cf. also Acts 5:41).

B.       “Resist” the temptation to retaliate.

1.       When we suffer mistreatment by others, Satan is ultimately behind it all (1 Peter 5:8-9).

2.       He would love to hinder the cause of Christ by having us retaliate just as people in the world would, establishing that Christians are no different than sinners of the world.

3.       Don’t let him win!

C.      “Respond” to mistreatment by doing more good.

D.      “Rely” on God.

1.       Suffering patiently when mistreated for doing good does not always bring immediate satisfaction.

2.       We must therefore trust in God, believing that His will is best.

3.       So just as Jesus “committed Himself to Him who judges righteously” (1 Peter 2:23), so should we (1 Peter 4:19).

4.       And if our Christ-like behavior does not change the behavior of those who mistreat us, God will one day do what is right (Romans 12:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:6).

 

Conclusion

 

I.        Hopefully by following the “four R’s” (rejoice, resist, respond, rely) we can follow in the steps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

II.       If so, then we can be sure to have “commendable conduct before God”!

III.      We have referenced what Jesus accomplished by suffering for us.

A.       How He bore our sins on the tree (1 Peter 2:24).

B.       Peter also says Jesus did this “that we, having died to sins might live for righteousness”.