1. Authentic Followers of Christ Salt and Light I Peter 4:12-19

2. We all like to have a connection to someone significant.

3. So it is one thing to be associated with Jesus – what a privilege that is
but amazingly there is another side of the coin
in that Jesus unashamedly claims us as his own.

4. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

5. Verse 14 says it quite simply
If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,

6. We are quick to state that we are a brother of Christ – we also need to be willing to suffer because of that association.

7. Perhaps our suffering is simply in the form of our faithful service

8. do not be surprised at the inconvenience of serving others – this is normal But rejoice that you participate in the same purpose as Christ, and you will enjoy your reward. If you are serving others sacrificially because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for God’s glory rests on you. But not if your inconvenience is a result of your own silliness However, if you serve sacrificially and you do that as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

9. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

10. If we suffer in persecution because we bear the name of Jesus – and we are refined because of it – then the glory of God is revealed in the refining process.

11. Serving others is the most effective means of refining.

12. They get a glimpse of what life is like – when God is in charge.

13. verse 19
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

14. We are fully connected to Christ. We are his brothers and sisters
We are fully connected to Christ. We are his brothers and sisters. What a privilege
It is still a privilege – even if we are to suffer because we take His Name
Suffering (Serving) is not without pain – but it is a wonderful refining process
Suffering (Serving) introduces the experience of God’s glory.
to those we serve – to those who serve – to those observing