For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. – 1 Peter 2:21-25

A. The Christian Life is a Called Life

1. To salvation – Acts 2:39, 1 Cor. 1:9, Eph. 1:15-18

2. To service – Mark 3:13-14, Rom. 1:1, Gal. 5:13

3. To suffering – 1 Peter 2:21, Acts 14:21-22, Phil. 1:29, 1 Thess. 3:1-5

B. The Christian Life is a Christ-Centered Life

1. In His death taking ownership of us – 1 Peter 2:24, 2 Cor. 5:20-21, 2 Cor. 5:14

2. In His life modeling for us – 1 Peter 2:21-23, Matt. 27:11-14, Mark 15:1-5, Luke 23:1-11

– Suffering servants don’t argue
– Suffering servants don’t defend themselves
– Suffering servants don’t clamor for rights or to be heard
– Suffering servants don’t show disrespect to authority
– Suffering servants commit themselves to the Sovereignty of God

Applying the Word

1. When I suffer for Christ, do I respond like Christ?

2. How do I view those who inflict pain on me, like Christ or in My flesh?