Christmas · The Second Sunday after Christmas
1 Peter 4:12-19
Suffering for Being a Christian
January 4, 2026
Overview & Insights
“Rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.” (1 Peter 4:13)
Dear friends signals the beginning of a new section, as Peter returns to the subject of suffering, though in particular to suffering on account of being a Christian. That a painful trial should come to those who have committed their lives to God’s keeping should not cause surprise. Conversion does not bring exemption from troubles, though it does assure believers of divine assistance through troubles. To have been born again into new spiritual life (1:3) will inevitably arouse opposition (1:6). This is because spiritual agencies antagonistic to Christ stir up the enmity of pagan neighbors and authorities. Believers should not conclude that something strange is happening to them. Now that Jesus himself is no longer on earth in human form, the spiritual onslaught falls upon his followers.
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Commentary
1 Peter 4 - Following Jesus in the Midst of Suffering Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik's verse-by-verse notes on the fiery trial and sharing in the sufferings of Christ.
1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed reflection on rejoicing in suffering for the name of Christ (covers the one-year 4:12-19).
1 Peter 4:10-19 Commentary Precept Austin
Evangelical verse-level commentary on the fiery ordeal and entrusting the soul to a faithful Creator.
1 Peter 4:12 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators on the strange fire of testing and judgment beginning at God's house.
Background & Word Study
1 Peter Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary introduction to 1 Peter and its counsel to a suffering church.
Book of 1 Peter Overview BibleProject
Animated overview of the letter and its theme of enduring suffering as exiles.
1 Peter 4:12 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek word-by-word text for study of purosis (fiery trial) and the phrase to suffer as a Christian.
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
How should Christians face the fiery trial?
Peter tells suffering believers not to be surprised by the fiery ordeal but to rejoice as sharers in Christ's sufferings, entrusting their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
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