The Grands Letter (1Pt/GLJ)
Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D. on October 30, 2019 7:45 pm (CST)Dear Grands,
1 Peter 4:15-16, “By no means let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler;
16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God.”
When was the last time you suffered as a Christian? It is likely that some of you have encountered laughter, or ridicule of some sort “avoidance” or “smart-alec” remarks. Some of you readers outside the United States have encountered it, too. Only the “suffering” went further than than disdainful words; you have encountered beatings and much worse.
There were reports only today that American Pastor Bryan Nerren, has been arrested and detained in northern India, the area in which he has labored for the past 17 years! His activity that brought about his arrest and detention: Pastor Nerren is a Christian! Imprisoned with others, who were plagued with diseases, he was yet able to witness to a Nigerian, who wanted to know about the Bible.
The question that came to my mind as I read of this pastor’s dilemma was,
“If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?”
Do those who know you, know of your faith in Jesus Christ? Do they know you have and read a Bible? Do they know you to be honest and friendly, ready to come to the aid of anyone in distress, regardless of their skin color or poverty? Do they
see you leave for Church on Sunday? Do they recognize your wave as an indication of friendliness and heartfelt love? Do they view you as a person of trust?
How’s the evidence adding up?
Peter allows that Christians do suffer. What he urges is that we not “feel ashamed,” but view it as a privilege to suffer for the Name of our LORD Jesus Christ. For in our suffering, and at whatever level, we are glorifying God. May His Name ever be glorified in us! God bless you!
Heartily in Christ Jesus,
(Dado III)
Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.
Springdale, Arkansas 72764
United States of America
“We never know that God is all we need
until He becomes all that we have.”
