1. BEING CHRISTIAN – IS IT WORTH IT? 1 PETER 4:12-5:8 1

2. What’s in a name? “CHRISTIAN”? The perspective of Ignatius 2

3. “CHRISTIAN” Coined by Roman Officials An outsider’s term. Tacitus Acts 11:26 Acts 26:28 1 Peter 4:16 Pliny 3

4. “CHRISTIAN” Derived from the term “Christos” = Messiah Describes those who are partisans, supporters, identifying with “Christos” – the one “who suffered the extreme penalty during the reign of Tiberius at the hands of one of our procurators, Pontius Pilate” (Tacitus) What does “Christian” mean today in Canada? 4

5. “CHRISTIAN” A term of honour, not shame. A “genuine” Christian shares fully (koinoinein) in the sufferings and glory of the Messiah (4:13). Our attachment to the “Living Stone” transforms us into “living stones.” 5

6. “CHRISTIAN” Implies ethical responsibility – “holy living.” 1 Peter 4:15 1 Peter 3:8-9 Doing good 6

7. “CHRISTIAN” It’s worth it because “the Spirit of Glory and of God is resting upon you” (1 Peter 4:14) Isaiah 11:1-2 – the New David “The Spirit of Yahweh will rest on him” “He will delight in the fear of Yahweh” 7

8. “CHRISTIAN” Embracing the name “Christian” will at some point generate opposition and suffering. “The Burning” (1 Peter 4:12) Not a surprise A universal Christian experience (5:9) Paul’s testimony (2 Timothy 3:12) Jesus’ blessing (Matthew 5:10-11) 8

9. “CHRISTIAN” Make Ignatius’ desire your own – really be Christian. Being Christian brings suffering – accept it. Put your confidence in God – “his mighty hand.” Adopt 1 Peter 4:19 as your life directive. Make sure you suffer for “doing good” and not “doing evil.” 9

10. “CHRISTIAN” Discern in your personal response to suffering and opposition your greatest opportunity for evangelism. Keep your focus on the goal – the “crown of glory.” 10