Because Christ suffered, triumphed, and reigns, believers can live with unity, holiness, courage, and hope—even in the face of unjust suffering.
Peter writes to believers who are misunderstood, maligned, and marginalized. They are not suffering because they are doing wrong, but because they belong to Christ. The question before them—and before us—is not if we will suffer, but how we will respond.
Peter’s answer is clear:
Live like Jesus. Hope like Jesus. Trust the victory of Jesus.
