Praise Him in My Dismay
Bearing His Name – Part 1
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Key Verse: 1 Peter 4:16
However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.
The Greek word “christinos” is used only here and in Acts 11:26 and Acts 26:28. It literally means “a follower of Christ.” It was a label. When Jews used this label for fellow Jews who had put their faith in Jesus, it was a negative label. In the early days of Christianity the term “Christian” would often lead to persecution and suffering.
The Apostle Peter is reminding those that suffer because they are Christian that they should not be ashamed, but praise God that they “bear that name.” Even though these early followers suffered from physical persecution, there are other forms of persecution that they, and we, can suffer. For example: being rejected from the “in” group never feels good, neither does being made fun of because of a Christian standard of living.
Most of us will experience some form of persecution if we walk with Christ very long. It may be these subtle forms. Hundreds of thousands of Christ followers around the world suffer physical persecution today. Anyone in America that becomes an outspoken Christ follower soon feels the blast from the liberal media. Yes, persecution is real and we should expect it if we plan to be a faithful follower. (Continued)
Father, grant me courage and strength as I live out the life you have taught me to live! In Jesus’ name, amen.