Baptism and Sufffering

We noted last week from vv. 13-17 that Peter for the first time introduced suffering for the sake of the gospel as something that his readers perhaps would soon or eventually be experiencing. Chapter 4:1 begins with the same call to prepare for suffering by arming ourselves with the same mind as Christ. Chapter 4:12 reminds us that we should not think it strange if we should face a fiery trial. And so although our text is difficult, we know that it is part of Peter's encouragement and preparation for his readers to endure whatever God would bring in His sovereignty. And it is for this reason that this text is also important as part of our preparation for coming hardships, whenever they may come in God's perfect plan. Specifically this morning we are reminded that suffering for the sake of the gospel is not in vain. In fact, our own baptisms remind us both of what Christ suffered in bringing us salvation as well as being a call and challenge that we also be willing to suffer.
From verses 18-22, we will consider four truths that prepare us to suffer for the sake of Christ: 1. The suffering of Christ. 2. The example of Noah. 3. Our own baptisms. 4. The ascension and present rule of Christ.