Mike Spaulding
In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials. 1 Peter 1:6[1]
In Part 1 of this focus on joy in the life of a believer in Jesus Christ, I discussed the manifold reasons why Christians can and should be people of great joy. The Apostle Peter lists some of the many reasons Christians can rejoice in Peter 1:1-5.
Briefly, those reasons include that Christians have been given a new eternal home in heaven with the Creator, thus we are aliens (v1) in whatever nation we call our temporal home.
The lives of faith we live always keep in view a great hope we have, namely that we will be resurrected just as Jesus was resurrected (v4). Our resurrection brings with it the realization of our blessed inheritance which is being kept in heaven for us (v4). Even our faith is safe-guarded by our heavenly Father for the blessed day of its final realization in eternity (v5).
Peter’s first phrase in verse 6 is based on these truths. In this you greatly rejoice, looks back on these promises of God toward all those who believe. A pivot point occurs right after that phrase. Peter says that we are to rejoice based on the promises of God toward us, “even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials.”
In Chapter 4 verses 12-13 of this same letter Peter says to readers:
“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share in the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation.
It is important to note that Peter says persevering through trials is a sign of the genuineness of faith in Christ. He uses the word “proof” in verse 7 along with the picture of “fire.” In this sense, fire is used of trials which refine faith, making it more valuable to the individual because faith refined by trials results in a strengthening and a firmer resolve toward obedience to Christ and a greater joy in realizing the promises of God are true and sure.
We know that this is the Father’s desired outcome because Peter says that these various trials are for the “testing” of faith, which is more precious than gold. The refining process of gold separates the impurities and results in a purer precious metal. Peter is using that analogy to make his point that faith tested and refined always results in greater holiness (verses 15-16), thankfulness for and praise of our great God the Lord Jesus Christ, who is worthy of all our honor (v7).
Peter was informing his readers then and us today that persecution by unbelievers is expected and indeed, normal. The world views the Christian faith and especially the Gospel that Jesus Christ, the Son of God died on behalf of mankind to be utter nonsense.[4]
What is often not pointed out to those who ridicule, mock, scorn, and persecute Christians is that those who engage in these behaviors are proving that they are among those who are perishing in a biblical and spiritual sense. Unbelievers exhibit a mind that remains darkened and separated from the Light that has come into the world, and does not and indeed cannot comprehend what they foolishly reject.[5]
The faith of true Christians does not rest on the so-called wisdom of this world.[6] Instead, the joy of the Christian is founded upon the rock which is Jesus Christ and a faith that is rooted in the power of God.[7]
A great reminder of the importance of rejoicing in our great God and in our Savior Jesus Christ is found in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the believers living in Philippi. To them he wrote these encouraging words:
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.[8]
By the power of the Holy Spirit living in you, rejoice today and every day knowing that your faith is not in vain. The Lord will reward those who faithfully follow Him. Do not let your current circumstances rob you of your God-given joy. Rejoice in what you know is true, the Lord Jesus Christ and His return in glory.
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