1 Peter 2:20
The sermon emphasizes the importance of enduring suffering for righteousness with patience, as it is pleasing to God and leads to His reward.
John Gill emphasizes the significance of enduring suffering for doing good, contrasting it with the lack of honor in suffering for one's faults. He explains that true glory comes from patiently bearing reproach and persecution while acting in accordance with God's will and for His glory. Gill highlights that such patience is not only commendable but also pleasing to God, who rewards those who suffer for righteousness with grace and glory. The sermon encourages believers to maintain their faith and integrity even in the face of unjust suffering.
Text
Ver. 20. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults,.... Which ye have committed, and are guilty of, and are truly such:
ye shall take it patiently? to be silent, and not murmur when beaten, within measure, for real faults, is no great honour, nor does it deserve any praise; it is the least that can be done:
but if, when ye do well; either in their master's service, or rather in the business of religion, and the things of God; as when what they do is according to the will of God, and from love to him, and in faith, and in the name and strength of Christ, and to the glory of God; without all which there is no well doing:
and suffer for it; reproach and persecution, by words or blows, in person or property:
ye take it patiently; without grieving and repining, or answering again, and making any returns:
this is acceptable with God; is agreeably to his will, and grateful in his sight, what he is well pleased with, is reckoned grace with him; and though it is his own grace, and of his own bestowing, he will reward it with glory.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Understanding Suffering for Faults
- The Lack of Glory in Punishment for Wrongdoing
-
II
- The Nature of True Good Works
- Motivation Behind Our Actions
-
III
- The Reality of Suffering for Righteousness
- The Importance of Patience in Trials
-
IV
- God's Perspective on Our Suffering
- The Promise of Reward for Endurance
Key Quotes
“to be silent, and not murmur when beaten, within measure, for real faults, is no great honour.” — John Gill
“if, when ye do well... and suffer for it; reproach and persecution... ye take it patiently; without grieving and repining.” — John Gill
“this is acceptable with God; is agreeably to his will, and grateful in his sight.” — John Gill
Application Points
- Reflect on your motivations for doing good and ensure they align with God's will.
- Practice patience in the face of unjust treatment, remembering that it honors God.
- Trust in God's promise of reward for those who endure suffering for righteousness.