but rejoice to the extent that you share Christ's sufferings, so that you may rejoice at the revelation of His glory, exulting.
Truth to Learn
We should be happy when we suffer as followers of Christ.
Behind the Words
“Rejoice” is from chairō, meaning “to have joy” or “to be well.” It is expressed here in the imperative mood, indicating a command for us to be joyful.
The word “share” is translated from koinōneō, meaning “to have things in common with” or “to participate in.”
“Sufferings” is from the Greek word pathēma, meaning “that which is suffered.”
Meaning Explained
Peter just told us not to be surprised at the fiery trial (the adversity) that is currently happening to us and that we are not to think that such adversities are strange. Here’s what Paul said:
all who determine to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. (2 Timothy 3:12)
Therefore, we shouldn’t think it unusual if we are being persecuted for trying to live godly lives. Instead of thinking it strange, we should rejoice in the midst of our persecution and suffering. Say what?! Are we supposed to be some kind of masochist and get really excited when we encounter pain and suffering? No, that’s not what Peter is saying. He is saying that we should rejoice because we are sharing in Christ’s suffering. Paul said to the Philippians:
to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death (Philippians 3:10)
And we should be willing, yes even desirous, of being identified as one of His, even in our suffering. James also said:
My brothers, consider it all joy when you fall into various trials, (James 1:2)
James even taught us that we will grow from these trials. And keep in mind what our Lord, Himself, told us:
Blessed are you when men shall revile you and persecute you, and shall say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice and leap for joy, for your reward in Heaven is great. For in this way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matthew 5:11,12)
Any personal relationship is strengthened when both parties in the relationship share common experiences, especially if they are difficult or painful experiences. God wants us to develop a closer relationship with Him, and one of the ways we can do this is by sharing in the suffering of Christ.
Application
If we are suffering because of our godly witness and our testimony as followers of Christ, then we are, in fact, suffering with Him. As a result, we will be glad with exceeding joy when Christ comes back in His glory. We will be glad because He with whom we have suffered, with whom we now have a closer personal relationship, is returning as the conquering King who will receive all the glory He is due! Give Him praise!
In God's service, for His glory,
Copyright © 2017 Will Krause. All rights reserved