1 Peter 2:21
Verse
Context
Christ’s Example of Suffering
20How is it to your credit if you are beaten for doing wrong and you endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.21For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps:
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Hereunto were ye called - Ye were called to a state of suffering when ye were called to be Christians; for the world cannot endure the yoke of Christ, and they that will live godly in Christ must suffer persecution; they will meet with it in one form or other. Christ also suffered for us - And left us the example of his meekness and gentleness; for when he was reviled, he reviled not again. Ye cannot expect to fare better than your master; imitate his example, and his Spirit shall comfort and sustain you. Many MSS. and most of the versions, instead of Christ also suffered for Us, leaving Us, etc., read, suffered for You, leaving You, etc. This reading, which I think is genuine, is noticed in the margin.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Christ's example a proof that patient endurance under undeserved sufferings is acceptable with God. hereunto--to the patient endurance of unmerited suffering (Pe1 3:9). Christ is an example to servants, even as He was once in "the form of a servant." called--with a heavenly calling, though slaves. for us--His dying for us is the highest exemplification of "doing well" (Pe1 2:20). Ye must patiently suffer, being innocent, as Christ also innocently suffered (not for Himself, but for us). The oldest manuscripts for "us . . . us," read, "you . . . for you." Christ's sufferings, while they are for an example, were also primarily sufferings "for us," a consideration which imposes an everlasting obligation on us to please Him. leaving--behind: so the Greek: on His departure to the Father, to His glory. an example--Greek, "a copy," literally, "a writing copy" set by masters for their pupils. Christ's precepts and sermons were the transcript of His life. Peter graphically sets before servants those features especially suited to their case. follow--close upon: so the Greek. his steps--footsteps, namely, of His patience combined with innocence.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who did no sin,.... He was in the likeness of sinful flesh; he looked like a sinful man, being born of a sinful woman, and keeping company with sinful men, being himself a man of sorrows, greatly afflicted, and at last put to death. He was traduced as a sinner by his enemies, and had all the sins of his people on him, which he bore, and made satisfaction for, and were the reason of his sufferings; but he had no sin in his nature, nor did he commit any in his life: neither was guile found in his mouth; though it was diligently sought for, by the Scribes and Pharisees; there was no deceit in his lips, no falsehood in his doctrine, any more than there was immorality in his conversation; he was an Israelite indeed on all accounts, and in the fullest sense of that phrase; reference is had to Isa 53:9 and this is observed, partly to show that Christ suffered not for himself, or for any sins of his own, but for the sins of others, for which he was very fit, since he had none of his own; and partly as an argument for patience in suffering; for since Christ suffered, who had no sin, nor did any, nor could any be found in him, charged upon him, and proved against him; and which sufferings of his he bore with patience; then how much must it become sinful men to bear their sufferings patiently, though they may not be criminal with respect to the things for which they suffer, but yet are so in other things, whereas Christ was not criminal, nor blameworthy in anything?
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:21-25 While there is no explicit change of address here, the general character of these verses makes them applicable to all believers. • These verses might incorporate an early Christian hymn or confession about Christ (2:22-25). Its focus is on the redemptive sufferings of Christ in language drawn largely from Isaiah 52:13–53:12.
1 Peter 2:21
Christ’s Example of Suffering
20How is it to your credit if you are beaten for doing wrong and you endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.21For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps:
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christ's Call Follow in My Footsteps
By K.P. Yohannan16K44:48Self-DenialMAT 16:24MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 9:23JHN 20:21ACT 1:81PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of self-denial and sacrificing our own desires for the sake of the cross and Calvary. He shares a personal story of his wife's visit to the largest slum in the world in Bombay, India, highlighting the dire living conditions and the need for Christians to plug into the reality of the world. The preacher urges believers to prioritize their love for God and to give all they have to reach the lost world, particularly in the 1040 window where billions of people have never heard the gospel. He encourages living a simple life and using resources to support missions work, sharing a testimony of a generous donor who gave $235,000 to purchase Jesus films for illiterate and unreached people. The preacher emphasizes the importance of accountability and the impact of sacrificial giving in contrast to the abundance in Western countries. He concludes by recommending a book he wrote about coming home to Jesus in the real world.
Do We Really Believe in Hell?
By K.P. Yohannan6.7K23:59HellMAT 10:37MAT 16:24LUK 9:23LUK 14:27JHN 12:251PE 2:211PE 2:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reaching out to the billions of people who have never heard the name of Jesus and are on their way to hell. He encourages listeners to take responsibility and make a difference in the world. The speaker shares a story of how a simple gospel tract led to the establishment of a church and highlights the impact that even small actions can have. He also challenges the audience to examine their materialistic and self-centered lifestyles and consider how they can use their resources to support mission work.
True and False Prophets - Part 1
By Art Katz4.3K1:12:36False ProphetsPSA 119:105MAT 6:33JHN 1:1EPH 2:202TI 3:161PE 2:211PE 4:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of listening to and meditating on the word of God. They encourage the audience to make use of cassette tapes and technology to revisit and reflect on the message. The speaker also highlights the need for training and preparation in order to be ready for God's work. They stress the significance of seeking God in the quiet place and being obedient to His counsel. Additionally, the speaker discusses the relevance of true propheticness in the current times and the challenges that come with it. They call for a willingness to bear the pain and humiliation that may arise from a life of obedience. The sermon concludes with a plea for the restoration of the Apostles and Prophets in the Church and the importance of communicating God's truth to the world.
Christ's Call - Full Length
By K.P. Yohannan4.2K40:44Self-DenialMAT 6:33MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 12:48JHN 20:21ACT 1:81PE 2:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a simple life and using our resources to reach the lost world. He shares a personal story of receiving a generous donation of $235,000 to buy the "Life of Jesus" film in different languages for illiterate and unreached people. The film had a significant impact, with a report stating that every month, at least 100,000 people were coming to faith in Jesus through watching it. The speaker challenges the audience to not be deceived by worldly desires and to embrace the cross of Christ, which involves self-denial and surrendering our own wishes for the sake of the gospel.
The Love of God
By Art Katz3.0K49:22Love Of GodGEN 12:3JHN 21:17ACT 2:31PE 1:221PE 2:211PE 3:11PE 3:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of love as the defining characteristic of God and the believers. The sermon explores the idea that Judas' betrayal of Jesus may have stemmed from a disappointed love, as Jesus did not meet his expectations as a deliverer for Israel. The preacher also highlights the need for believers to love unconditionally and extend themselves for others, even at the risk of their own lives. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that love is a powerful force that cannot fail and that God is glorified when believers demonstrate love for one another.
Are You Comforatble Yet?
By Leonard Ravenhill2.6K07:28MAT 5:11MAT 16:24ROM 5:52CO 12:9PHP 3:102TI 3:12HEB 11:251PE 2:211PE 4:16This sermon emphasizes the contrast between the comfort and ease of modern Christianity and the sacrificial dedication of early believers, challenging listeners to consider their commitment to Christ in the face of potential persecution. It highlights the need to love Jesus personally rather than just adhere to a creed, and to be willing to endure affliction and suffering for the sake of following Him faithfully.
A Reverential Fear of God
By Zac Poonen2.3K1:08:101CO 2:32CO 7:1EPH 5:21PHP 2:12HEB 4:11PE 1:171PE 2:11PE 2:171PE 2:211PE 3:11PE 3:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of reverent fear of God in our lives, highlighting the need to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, to live in obedience and holiness, and to be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. It addresses the danger of moving from legalism to a state of no covenant, where secret sins and worldliness can creep in, leading to a decline in godliness. The speaker urges a return to a healthy balance, seeking God earnestly, fasting, praying, and evaluating our lives regularly to ensure we are walking in the true grace of God.
(Grace Baptist) Wait on the Lord
By Bill McLeod2.2K48:00Waiting2SA 5:23PSA 143:8PSA 143:10ACT 16:91CO 6:171PE 2:211PE 2:23In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David and his battle with the Philistines. Instead of repeating the same strategy as before, God instructs David to stand by the mulberry trees and attack when he hears the wind rustling through them. David obeys and they are victorious. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and not relying on past methods. He also mentions how David's choice of five stones to face Goliath was strategic, as Goliath had four sons. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the will of God is good, acceptable, and perfect, encouraging listeners to trust in God's plan.
Couples Night
By Keith Daniel2.2K1:12:17Purity1PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal anecdote about encountering a little girl who reveals the struggles her parents face in their marriage. The preacher then references Proverbs 30:21, which states that the world cannot bear an odious woman when she is married. He explains that an odious woman refers to a difficult and self-willed woman. The preacher also shares a conversation he had with John Wesley, where Wesley advises him to observe the preacher's wife and consider if he would be happy with someone like her in 20 years. The sermon emphasizes the importance of choosing a spouse wisely and the impact it can have on one's future.
Living Hope Through the Resurrection
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K1:25:16ResurrectionMAT 4:4HEB 13:8JAS 1:21PE 1:71PE 2:211PE 4:111PE 5:7In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the hunger for God that he sees in America, particularly among the younger generation. He emphasizes the need for wisdom and guidance from fathers in the faith. The speaker expresses a desire for something greater in his generation and a dissatisfaction with spiritual stagnation. He shares a story about a meeting where God's presence was evident and encourages the congregation to seek a deeper experience with God.
Span-02 Overview of the Last Days
By Art Katz1.8K1:23:39Last DaysISA 2:3MAT 6:33ACT 1:9ROM 11:30EPH 3:4EPH 3:61PE 2:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the high calling of God in Christ Jesus and the privilege it is to fulfill it. He highlights the revelation of the mystery of Christ, which was not known in previous ages but is now revealed to the apostles and prophets by the Spirit. The speaker emphasizes the significance of the Gentiles being brought near to God through the blood of Jesus and becoming fellow heirs with the Jews. He encourages believers to embrace their calling and be willing to bear opposition and engage in spiritual warfare to bring others to God. The sermon also includes a personal anecdote about a conversation with a rabbi and emphasizes the importance of seeking first the kingdom of God and trusting Him to provide for all needs.
Commitment to the Father
By William MacDonald1.8K38:54CommitmentDEU 6:4PSA 37:5ISA 41:101PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of full commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. He highlights the blessings that come from Calvary and the need for a proper response to the truths presented. The preacher refers to the church in Laodicea and the warning given by Jesus about being lukewarm. The sermon also explores the concept of commitment to Christ and the impact it should have on every aspect of a believer's life. The preacher references Deuteronomy 6:4-9, which instructs believers to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Transparency - Part 1
By K.P. Yohannan1.5K40:44TransparencyMAT 6:33MAT 23:27JHN 8:1ROM 8:31GAL 6:11PE 2:211JN 2:6In this sermon, Brother K.P. Johanan discusses the topic of failure and how the Lord deals with those who fail. He uses the example of the Apostle Peter, who denied Jesus three times and experienced deep despair and discouragement. Johanan emphasizes that failure is a common experience for all people and that the Lord never wants anyone to fail, but rather desires for them to succeed. He encourages listeners to cooperate with God and have the same attitude towards those who have failed as Christ does.
The Cross of Christ - Part 3
By Art Katz1.5K46:33Cross of ChristMAT 27:45ACT 16:16ROM 1:29ROM 8:17COL 1:241PE 2:211PE 5:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for believers to experience suffering and persecution in order to effectively preach the word of God. He references the story of Paul and Silas, who were imprisoned and beaten for their faith. Despite their difficult circumstances, they chose to pray and sing praises to God. The speaker encourages listeners to follow their example and trust in God's power to bring about deliverance and transformation. He also highlights the connection between challenging the world system and facing opposition from rulers and authorities.
Transparency - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan1.4K25:59TransparencyJER 1:5MAT 6:33GAL 6:11PE 2:211JN 2:6In this sermon, Brother K.P. Ohannan discusses the topic of failure and how to respond to it. He uses the example of Peter, who denied Christ, to illustrate the feelings of rejection and lostness that often accompany failure. Ohannan emphasizes that nobody is perfect and that we all sin. He then explores how the Lord deals with failures, highlighting the fact that Jesus never spoke harshly to the worst sinners in society but instead showed them love and compassion. Ohannan also challenges the church to live out a genuine Christianity that helps those in need and supports those who are struggling.
The Solitary Sin Bearer
By J. Glyn Owen1.4K30:18Sin BearerLEV 10:17NUM 18:211PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of sin-bearing and its significance in the Christian faith. He refers to the biblical story of Aaron confessing the sins of Israel onto an innocent goat, symbolizing the transfer of sin onto an innocent party. The preacher then connects this symbolism to the introduction of Jesus by John the Baptist, who proclaimed him as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus' role as the sin bearer is not just an example for believers to follow, but a completed work that calls for faith and trust. He concludes by highlighting the importance of worship and obedience in response to Jesus' sacrifice.
Follow in His Footsteps
By K.P. Yohannan1.3K35:09DiscipleshipZEC 4:6MAT 6:33JHN 6:68ROM 8:17HEB 12:21PE 2:211PE 2:24In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story of a Hindu man who was on the verge of committing suicide but was saved by reading a gospel tract. This man had never heard of Jesus before and was amazed to learn that Jesus died for him and that he didn't have to go to hell. Two missionaries shared the gospel with him, and within a few months, a church was established with the man's support. The speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel and reaching out to the billions of people who have never heard the name of Jesus.
Living as Christ Pm Service - Peoples Church
By K.P. Yohannan1.3K39:26Living As ChristMAT 6:33ROM 12:12CO 5:17GAL 2:20PHP 2:51PE 2:211JN 2:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a story of a missionary who faced great difficulties and suffering while working among a people group in India. The missionary initially had enthusiasm and hope for leading these people to Christ, but soon realized the challenges of the mission field. He prayed to be sent somewhere else, but God spoke to him and said he could go, but He would have to stay in the worst place on Earth during winter. The speaker emphasizes that as Christians, we are called to live as Christ did and to embrace suffering and sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel.
Words of Wisdom - Part 1
By K.P. Yohannan1.2K23:04WisdomMAT 4:19MAT 6:33MAT 16:241PE 2:211PE 4:102PE 3:10REV 13:8In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of John Beers, a banker who was converted after reading one of the speaker's books. Beers felt convicted to leave his profession, sell his house, and take his family to serve the Lord. The speaker emphasizes the importance of committing one's life to God and being involved in reaching the lost world. He encourages listeners to have a heart for missions and to live a lifestyle that hastens the coming of the Lord. The speaker also highlights the significance of becoming more like Christ and being agents of redemption for the world.
A Season and a Time
By Keith Daniel1.1K1:09:55SeasonsPSA 7:15PRO 4:24PRO 15:23ECC 3:1ISA 53:71PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of using words wisely and knowing when to keep silent. He shares a personal story of encountering a young man with a rebellious appearance and warning him to seek God before committing evil acts. Tragically, the young man later brutally attacked and killed a woman. The preacher reflects on the power of words and the responsibility to speak truth, but also the need to trust God with judgment and not retaliate. The sermon highlights the significance of passing the test of responding to attacks with grace and love.
God's Alarm Clock
By Bill McLeod1.1K1:02:28WarningPSA 119:133PRO 21:16JHN 2:17ACT 13:52ROM 14:171TH 5:61TH 5:92TI 2:241PE 2:211JN 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a righteous and alert life. He shares a story of a man who fearlessly faced a dangerous situation because he had faith in heaven. The preacher encourages the audience to walk wisely, redeem their time, and be filled with the Spirit. He emphasizes that our lives are like a theater, being watched by God, angels, and even demons. The sermon concludes with a reminder to stay awake and prepared for the coming of Jesus. The preacher also shares a personal anecdote about a mischievous classroom experience.
A Time to Be Silent
By Keith Daniel9411:14:04SilencePSA 141:3PRO 15:23ISA 53:7MAT 5:392CO 12:9JAS 1:191PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of words and the destructive impact they can have on others. He shares a personal story of witnessing a man's life being destroyed by a single sentence spoken by a young person. The preacher warns against the danger of gossip and slander, highlighting the devastating consequences it can have on individuals and their families. He urges listeners to be mindful of their words and to seek God's grace in all circumstances, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commandments.
Do We Really Believe What We Say We Believe
By K.P. Yohannan93323:59BeliefMAT 10:37MAT 16:24LUK 9:23LUK 14:27JHN 12:251PE 2:211PE 2:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reaching out to the billions of people who have never heard the name of Jesus and are on their way to hell. He encourages listeners to take responsibility and make a difference in the world. The speaker shares a story of how a simple gospel tract led to the establishment of a church and highlights the impact that even small actions can have. He also challenges the audience to examine their materialistic and self-centered lifestyles and consider how they can use their resources to support mission work.
Having No Selfishness
By Zac Poonen84703:10MAT 5:48ROM 12:16PHP 2:2PHP 2:5PHP 3:121PE 2:211JN 2:6This sermon delves into the manifestation of God's ways in Jesus' life, emphasizing unity as highlighted in Philippians chapter 2. The chapter discusses being of the same mind, love, spirit, and purpose, showcasing a comprehensive view of unity. It addresses the importance of adopting the attitude of Christ to combat sins that hinder unity, specifically selfishness and pride. The command to refrain from selfishness and pride is presented as a challenging yet essential journey towards perfection, mirroring Jesus' selfless and humble nature.
1 Peter 1
By Robert F. Adcock79636:39MAT 5:44LUK 23:34ROM 12:171PE 1:71PE 2:211PE 3:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life committed to God, even in the face of trials and conflicts with the world. He encourages believers to trust in God's strength and power, rather than relying on their own abilities or influence. The preacher highlights the example of Jesus Christ, who suffered without sinning, as the perfect model for enduring suffering. He also emphasizes the refining process that trials and testing bring to believers' lives, comparing it to the process of refining gold to remove impurities and make it beautiful and useful.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Hereunto were ye called - Ye were called to a state of suffering when ye were called to be Christians; for the world cannot endure the yoke of Christ, and they that will live godly in Christ must suffer persecution; they will meet with it in one form or other. Christ also suffered for us - And left us the example of his meekness and gentleness; for when he was reviled, he reviled not again. Ye cannot expect to fare better than your master; imitate his example, and his Spirit shall comfort and sustain you. Many MSS. and most of the versions, instead of Christ also suffered for Us, leaving Us, etc., read, suffered for You, leaving You, etc. This reading, which I think is genuine, is noticed in the margin.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Christ's example a proof that patient endurance under undeserved sufferings is acceptable with God. hereunto--to the patient endurance of unmerited suffering (Pe1 3:9). Christ is an example to servants, even as He was once in "the form of a servant." called--with a heavenly calling, though slaves. for us--His dying for us is the highest exemplification of "doing well" (Pe1 2:20). Ye must patiently suffer, being innocent, as Christ also innocently suffered (not for Himself, but for us). The oldest manuscripts for "us . . . us," read, "you . . . for you." Christ's sufferings, while they are for an example, were also primarily sufferings "for us," a consideration which imposes an everlasting obligation on us to please Him. leaving--behind: so the Greek: on His departure to the Father, to His glory. an example--Greek, "a copy," literally, "a writing copy" set by masters for their pupils. Christ's precepts and sermons were the transcript of His life. Peter graphically sets before servants those features especially suited to their case. follow--close upon: so the Greek. his steps--footsteps, namely, of His patience combined with innocence.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who did no sin,.... He was in the likeness of sinful flesh; he looked like a sinful man, being born of a sinful woman, and keeping company with sinful men, being himself a man of sorrows, greatly afflicted, and at last put to death. He was traduced as a sinner by his enemies, and had all the sins of his people on him, which he bore, and made satisfaction for, and were the reason of his sufferings; but he had no sin in his nature, nor did he commit any in his life: neither was guile found in his mouth; though it was diligently sought for, by the Scribes and Pharisees; there was no deceit in his lips, no falsehood in his doctrine, any more than there was immorality in his conversation; he was an Israelite indeed on all accounts, and in the fullest sense of that phrase; reference is had to Isa 53:9 and this is observed, partly to show that Christ suffered not for himself, or for any sins of his own, but for the sins of others, for which he was very fit, since he had none of his own; and partly as an argument for patience in suffering; for since Christ suffered, who had no sin, nor did any, nor could any be found in him, charged upon him, and proved against him; and which sufferings of his he bore with patience; then how much must it become sinful men to bear their sufferings patiently, though they may not be criminal with respect to the things for which they suffer, but yet are so in other things, whereas Christ was not criminal, nor blameworthy in anything?
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:21-25 While there is no explicit change of address here, the general character of these verses makes them applicable to all believers. • These verses might incorporate an early Christian hymn or confession about Christ (2:22-25). Its focus is on the redemptive sufferings of Christ in language drawn largely from Isaiah 52:13–53:12.