A Word from the Author
A Word from the
Author
If you know something about suffering and persecution, then 1 Peter has a message for you: “Be hopeful!”
Peter wrote this letter to Christians who were going through various trials. The apostle knew that a severe “fiery trial” was just around the corner, and he wanted to prepare believers for it. After all, what life does to us depends on what life finds in us.
For the most part, Christians in the Western world have enjoyed comfortable lives. Our brothers and sisters behind iron and bamboo curtains have suffered for their faith. Now there is every indication that the time is approaching when it will cost us to take a stand for Christ. The only “comfortable” Christian will be a “compromising” Christian, and his comfort will be costly.
But God’s message to us is, “Be hopeful! Suffering leads to glory! I can give you all the grace you need to honor Me when the going gets tough!”
The future is still as bright as the promises of God, so—be hopeful!
—Warren W. Wiersbe