1 Peter 3:8-12 - A Certain Kind of Christian - Part 4

In order to live a life in submission to authority we must be a certain kind of Christian. One that lives in community wit other believers as a church community. We all find it difficult to live in community with others at times because of our selfish and sinful tendency to only association with people that are more like us. It is important that we do not shrink back from others because God is for you and your success in this life and next. Success must be defined as submission to God's will and plan. Any earthly focus on success will surely cause us to shrink back from others because of our me-centered success focus. In this passage Peter encourages you (his reader) that since God is you, you should 1) trust that God is at work for your good (v. 8), l2) ive our your calling (v. 9), and 3) believe that God will give you the good life (10-12)

Of course the kind of Christian that accomplishes this is enable by God's grace to have unity of mind, sympathy,brother love, a tender hear, and a humble mind. Scripture never says that brotherly love is only for mature saints. Brotherly love should be the ordinary sign of discipleship (John 13:35. 1 John 3:14). Only the grace of God can give us the right feelings for our brothers and sisters. These traits also carry the humility that is not compelled nor happen by accident. Loving our enemies is an example of the kind of Christian that these traits create. God's plans and ways are good and will help you see good days. Keep your tongue in check and seek the peace, and God will be giving you the answer to your prayers.

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