Reading for March 8th

Read 1 Peter 3.13-22. In verses 13-17: suffering well. In verses 13-15: All members are addressed in terms resembling the exhoration to slaves in 2.18-25. Peter declares unjust suffering a blessing or honor (Mt 5.10-11) whie enemies are put to shame. In verses 16-17: Although Christians forswear vengence (3.9), they may prepare an appropriate defense (Mt 10.19-20) for some forms of civic trail. The best defense is a clear conscience, that is repect for the values and actions though by others to be honorable. In verese 18-22: Christ as model. While paralleling the example of Jesus in in 2.21-22, these verses contain a traditonal hymn about his death and vindication, and enthronement (see 1 Tim 3.16 for a similar structure). In verses 18-19: Christ models sinless suffering, emphasizing the good that comes from endurance. Put to death, Jesus was made alive by God; when vindicated, he rebuked the evil powers responsible for his death and the group's suffering. In verses 20-21: Peter interrupts with a reminder of baptism. Noah and seven other persons escaped destruction inthe flood, prefiguring baptism, spiritual washing and new birth. In verse 22: The hymn continues with mention of Jesus' resurrection and enthronement, when all heavenly spirits and powers obey him. Suffering like Christ, disicples experience a baptismal transformation from moral death to heavenly life, thus sharing in Jesus' resurrection. They also glory in Jesus authority over the cosmos. Comments or Questions..