1 Peter 3 Give a Reason

Theme over last few weeks:

• Honor the emperor and submit to authority.
• Treat spouse with great respect
• Bless those who persecute you

1 Peter 3:13 Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?

This is a general rule:

• Treat people well / respect
• And they will treat you well/ respect

1 Peter 3:13-14 “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.”

Don’t – Don’t fear their threats!

Daniel 3:16-18 “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. ¹⁷ If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. ¹⁸ But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

Do – Be prepared to give an answer!

1 Peter 3:13-16 “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? ¹⁴ But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” ¹⁵ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give a reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

A few possible answers to give:

• What has God done for you?
• How has God changed you?
• What teachings/ Bible verses have impacted you?
• How have you encountered God?

1 Peter 3:16 “But do this with gentleness and respect”