1 Peter 3:9
The sermon emphasizes the importance of not rendering evil for evil, but instead choosing to bless and pray for those who have hurt us, as an example of Christ's teachings.
John Gill emphasizes the teaching of 1 Peter 3:9, urging believers not to retaliate with evil or harsh words when wronged, but rather to respond with blessings and prayer. He highlights the example of Christ, who did not retaliate when reviled, and encourages Christians to bless those who harm them, as this aligns with their calling. Gill explains that by doing so, believers not only fulfill their duty but also inherit blessings from God, both in this life and the next. The sermon underscores the importance of patience and grace in the face of adversity, reflecting the character of Christ in our actions.
Text
Ver. 9. Not rendering evil for evil,.... Doing an ill thing in return to one that has done ill to you, and in a way of revenge for it; which is contrary to what is before advised to, and which is taking God's prerogative and work out of his hands, whose vengeance is, and which is to be overcome of evil:
or railing for railing; returning ill language to such as have given it, but rather should imitate Christ, who, when he was reviled, reviled not again, 1Pe 2:23 and whose advice is, instead of returning injuries, blows, or words, to turn to him that smites on the right check the other also and to bless them that curse, do good to them that hate, and pray for them that persecute, Mt 5:39 and which is here directed to:
but contrariwise blessing; praying for a blessing on them; for if we are to do so for our enemies, for them that hate us, despitefully use and persecute us, as did Christ, Stephen the protomartyr, and the apostles, then much more our fellow Christians who may do us an injury or speak evil of us, or to us: who seem to be chiefly intended: the argument to persuade to it follows,
knowing that ye are thereunto called; referring either to what goes before being called by grace to the discharge of all the above duties exhorted to, and particularly to suffer patiently all injuries and affronts; and instead of making returns in the same way, to bless and pray for those that have hurt us, either by words or deeds; see 1Pe 2:20 or to what follows, that ye should inherit a blessing; temporal blessing or blessings; for godliness has the promise of this life and godly persons shall not want any good thing; and even while the blessings of others are cursed they have their outward mercies with a blessing, and they are blessings indeed to them; wherefore, the little they may have is better than the large affluence of others: and also spiritual blessing, or blessings; such as peace of conscience, the pardon of all their sins a justifying righteousness adopting grace, all supplies of grace from Christ, his presence and communion with him: and also an eternal one, even life for evermore; called so, because it springs from the free favour, good will, and blessing of God, and which its being an inheritance also shows; and because such that enjoy it are eternally and unspeakably happy.
Sermon Outline
- I. Introduction
- II. The Importance of Not Rendering Evil for Evil
- A. Contrary to God's Work
- B. Imitating Christ's Example
- III. The Blessing of Turning the Other Cheek
- A. Turning to the Right Check
- B. Blessing Those Who Curse
- IV. The Argument to Persuade to Blessing
- A. Knowing You Are Called to This
- B. Inheriting a Blessing
Key Quotes
“Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing; returning ill language to such as have given it, but rather should imitate Christ, who, when he was reviled, reviled not again.” — John Gill
“Blessing; praying for a blessing on them; for if we are to do so for our enemies, for them that hate us, despitefully use and persecute us, as did Christ, Stephen the protomartyr, and the apostles, then much more our fellow Christians who may do us an injury or speak evil of us, or to us:” — John Gill
Application Points
- Choose to bless and pray for those who have hurt you, rather than returning evil for evil.
- Remember that imitating Christ's example is key to living a life of love and forgiveness.
- Inheriting a blessing is a promise of God's goodness and favor, and it includes temporal, spiritual, and eternal blessings.