Persecution Into Praise

For the time has come for judgment to begin with God's household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God? - 1 Peter 4:17

Judgment, trial, tribulation, and suffering are four very different words that all seem to carry the same meaning within the context of 1 Peter, chapter 4. Peter wrote this letter at a time when the church was undergoing persecution, stating clearly that "the time had come for judgment to begin with God's household."

Now, almost 20 centuries later, the "judgment" of which Peter spoke still continues (in various degrees of severity around the world). If the judgment of which Peter wrote includes the persecution of the saints (that  results in the trying and testing of their faith), then what will be the outcome "for those who disobey the gospel of God?" If Christ-followers must endure suffering, then how terrible will be the eternal and temporal tribulation of those who do not follow Him?

In Peter's words, we see both vindication for the victim and warning for the persecutor. So, while God's Word describes a present reality, it also predicts a sure future, and perhaps most importantly, an imminent warning for those who oppose God's people and God's work.

If you take care of yourself and walk with integrity, you may be confident that God will deal with those who sin against you. Above all, don't give birth to sin yourself; rather, pray for those who persecute you. God will one day turn your persecution into praise. - Warren Wiersbe