1 Peter 3:13-22 – Christus Victor

Sermon on 1 Peter 3:13-22: Christus Victor & Christ's Triumph

    13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed.  Have no fear of them,  nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.

    18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, 19 in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, 20 because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. 21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the main message of the sermon on 1 Peter 3:13-22?

The sermon, titled "Christus Victor," expounds on 1 Peter 3:13-22, addressing themes of suffering for righteousness, honoring Christ, and being prepared to share the hope found in Him. It highlights Christ's suffering, resurrection, and ultimate victory over spiritual powers.

2 How does the sermon explain suffering for righteousness?

Based on 1 Peter 3:13-17, the sermon teaches that even if one suffers for righteousness' sake, they will be blessed. It encourages believers to honor Christ, have no fear, and maintain a good conscience, as it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

3 What is the significance of "Christus Victor" in this passage?

"Christus Victor" refers to Christ's triumph, as detailed in 1 Peter 3:18-22. Christ suffered once for sins, was put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, and has now ascended to heaven with angels, authorities, and powers subjected to Him.

4 How can I access the sermon content?

You can listen to the sermon directly on the page using the embedded audio player or download the MP3 file. A PDF of the bulletin, which may include sermon notes, is also available for download.