1 Peter 4:1 NKJV
Suffering as a Follower of Christ
In 1 Peter 4:1, the apostle Peter writes, "Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin" (NKJV).
The Example of Christ's Suffering
In this verse, Peter reminds believers that Christ suffered in the flesh, and as followers of Christ, we are called to arm ourselves with the same mind. This means that we should be willing to suffer for the sake of Christ, just as He suffered for us. As believers, we are called to follow in Christ's footsteps, even if it means suffering for His sake.
The Mind of Christ
The phrase "arm yourselves likewise with the same mind" suggests that believers should have the same mindset as Christ. This mindset is characterized by humility, obedience, and a willingness to suffer for the sake of others. When we have this mindset, we are better equipped to follow in Christ's footsteps and to endure suffering for His sake.
The Result of Suffering
The verse also says, "for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin." This suggests that when we suffer for the sake of Christ, we are freed from the power of sin. Suffering can have a purifying effect, refining us and making us more like Christ. When we suffer for His sake, we are less likely to be distracted by the things of this world and more focused on eternal things.
Conclusion
In 1 Peter 4:1, Peter reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are called to suffer for His sake. This suffering can take many forms, from persecution to ridicule to physical hardship. But when we suffer for the sake of Christ, we are armed with the same mindset as Christ, and we are freed from the power of sin. May we be willing to take up our cross and follow in Christ's footsteps, even if it means suffering for His sake.
