We rejoice in so far as we share in the sufferings of Christ. Jesus’s own life serves as the pattern for all Christians. Following Jesus will inevitably involve imitating him in both sacrifice and suffering. We ought not be surprised at suffering and adversity. Instead, we must recognize that suffering for the cause of Christ is one of the great privileges given to those who represent him in this world.

Jesus demonstrated his love for his Father in his obedience to his will. His very own life serves as our example, as a pattern for how we should live and work. He is the model for our lives, and we should strive to be like him.

Father, thank you for the model of Jesus you have given to us, the one who has revealed to us how we ought to suffer for righteousness’ sake. Give us grace to stand for you, even as he stood for you. Amen.

The holy priesthood is to live holy lives before God and the world (1 Peter 3:12), allow their good works to bring glory to God (1 Peter 2:12) and even use worthless good conduct as means of winning unbelievers to Christ, even – or especially – within the context of suffering. Believers are being formed into a community of sanctified priests whose purpose is to worship God in the spirit by the performance of sacrificial deeds.

~ Uche Anizor and Hank Voss, Representing Christ. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2016. p. 47.

Let God Arise! Seasonal Focus
Live as Ambassadors, John 13.12-20

Book Reading
Anizor and Voss, Representing Christ

Our Corporate Disciplines
National Day of Prayer: Monday, September 12, 2022