Suffer Cheerfully for God

4:12  Dear friends signals the beginning of a new section, as Peter returns to the subject of suffering, though in particular to suffering on account of being a Christian. That a painful trial should come to those who have committed their lives to God’s keeping should not cause surprise. Conversion does not bring exemption from troubles, though it does assure believers of divine assistance through troubles. To have been born again into new spiritual life (1:3) will inevitably arouse opposition (1:6). This is because spiritual agencies antagonistic to Christ stir up the enmity of pagan neighbors and authorities. Believers should not conclude that something strange is happening to them. Now that Jesus himself is no longer on earth in human form, the spiritual onslaug…