Love's Example - I Peter 2:21
Jesus' example of suffering and forgiving love shows us the power of meekness and forbearance in the face of adversity.
Bernard Fell preaches on the example of Christ's silent suffering, highlighting how Jesus endured degradation, mockery, and scourging without retaliation, showcasing the power of forgiveness and grace. He emphasizes the contrast between Jesus' authority to command legions of angels and His choice to silently endure suffering for the sake of love. Bernard encourages the congregation to reflect on the profound impact of Christ's silent suffering and to emulate His meekness and forgiveness in the face of conflict and temptation.
Text
Christ also suffered for us,
leaving us an example,
that ye should follow His steps.
1 Peter 2:21
O voiceless calm of Jesus,
Degraded, mocked, and scourged:
E'en Pilate marvelled at the grace
Which answered not a word.
How silently He suffered!
No balm to bring relief:
The sweetness of forgiving love
Was mingled with His grief.
To Him all pow'r was given,
And none can stay His hand:
Angelic legions wait to hear
The word of His command.
His gentle voice of healing
The sick and weary heard;
Yet for Himself in deepest woe
He uttered not a word.
O let that lowly silence
Speak volumes to the heart,
When burning words form on the lips,
And angry feelings start.
When tempted in the conflict
To rise in self-defence,
The silent pow'r of conquering love
Can pardon the offence.
Take wrong, and let forbearance
In meekness ever live;
It may be manly to resent,
'Tis godly to forgive!
Sermon Outline
- The Example of Jesus' Suffering
- Jesus' Suffering as a Model for Us
- The Power of Forgiving Love
- The Importance of Meekness and Forbearance
Key Quotes
“How silently He suffered!” — Bernard Fell
“To Him all pow''r was given, And none can stay His hand:” — Bernard Fell
“O let that lowly silence Speak volumes to the heart,” — Bernard Fell
Application Points
- We should strive to imitate Jesus' example of suffering and forgiving love in our own lives.
- Meekness and forbearance are essential qualities for living out a spirit of kindness and compassion towards others.
- Forgiveness is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of retaliation and evil, and for bringing peace and healing to ourselves and others.