1. Suffer for Christ’s sake. 2:19. When we suffer unjustly, we win God’s approval. This is one way we can display Christ.
2. Suffer like Him. 2:20. Patient suffering for well-doing counts. It is unnatural and hopefully will lead others to repentance and salvation.
3. Suffer for righteousness’ sake. 3:14. Three results: God uses the suffering and overrules the suffering for His own glory. He uses the suffering to bring blessings to others. He blesses the one who suffers for His name’s sake.
4. Suffer for well-doing. 3:17. Suffering may be God’s will. We should never bring suffering on ourselves for our own misdeeds.
5. Suffer for His name. 4:14. Suffering for Christ’s sake is a true indication that the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon us. That indicates total commitment to the cause of Christ.
6. According to the will of God. 4:19. Acting impulsively without divine guidance leads to dishonor. He is the Creator in two ways: we are part of the original creation, and He has made us a new creation in Christ.
7. Reward of suffering. 5:10. The God of all grace works out His purposes. He has called us to His eternal glory. We are only here for a short time so that He might educate us, strengthen us, and mold our Christian character.