1 Pet. iv. 19. Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
GOD has mercifully engaged to save his people at the last. They may however meet with many severe conflicts in their way. Nor are they to expect to be saved but with great difficulty. Nevertheless they may safely commit themselves to God, in hope of a happy issue out of all their trials. Hence the Apostle suggests, in a way of inference, the advice in the text.
We propose to shew,
I. What Christians must expect to suffer —
Though all are not called to bear the cross in the same degree, yet all should be prepared to suffer,
1. In their reputation —
[That " fear of God" which the Scriptures represent to be " the beginning of wisdom," the world considers as the summit of folly. However wise, learned, or discreet any man may be, he cannot escape the imputation of weakness or enthusiasm, if he will " follow the Lord fully." If our Lord and Master was called Beelzebub, his servants can expect no better name.]
2. In their property —
[In former times the saints have frequently " suffered the loss of all things :" nor is it uncommon now for friends, and even parents, to withdraw their kindness from godly persons on account of their religion. Who does not know that eminent piety is a bar, rather than a help, to promotion ? " They then who would be Christ's disciples, must forsake all, and follow him."]
3. In their liberty and life —
[Through the tender mercy of our God we are protected by the laws of the land : but none can tell what changes may yet arise : multitudes even in this kingdom have suffered death for Christ's sake ; and, whether called to this trial or not, we should be prepared for it.]