26/05/2026
Sunday Service
17/05/2026
7th Sunday of Easter
(Sunday after Ascension)
Introit: Psalm 68:1-10
O.T. Lesson: Ezek. 36:22-32
Epistle Lesson/Text: 1 Pet. 4:12-19
Gospel Lesson: John 17:1-11
THE SERMON
Speaker: Thomas N. Gbarato
Text: 1 Peter 4:12–19
Theme: Godly Suffering Brings Glory and Victory
Introduction
The Christian journey is not always smooth and easy. At times, believers pass through trials, persecutions, hardships, and painful experiences because of their faith in Christ. Apostle Peter encouraged the church not to see suffering for Christ as a strange thing, but as part of the Christian calling. Godly suffering is never in vain; it produces spiritual growth, divine glory, victory, and eternal reward.
Main Points
1. Godly Suffering Tests and Purifies Believers
Text: 1 Peter 4:12
Peter warned believers not to be surprised by fiery trials. God allows challenges to test our faith and purify our character. Just as gold is refined through fire, believers are refined through trials.
Lessons:
* Trials strengthen our faith.
* Suffering builds spiritual maturity.
* God uses difficult moments to prepare us for greater purpose.
2. Godly Suffering Makes Us Partakers of Christ’s Glory
Text: 1 Peter 4:13
When believers suffer for righteousness, they share in the sufferings of Christ. Such suffering leads to joy and glory when Christ is revealed.
Lessons:
* There is honor in suffering for Christ.
* Temporary pain produces eternal glory.
* God rewards faithful endurance.
3. Godly Suffering Attracts the Presence and Spirit of God
Text: 1 Peter 4:14
Peter declared that when believers are reproached for the name of Christ, the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon them.
Lessons:
* God never abandons His children in suffering.
* The Holy Spirit gives strength during persecution.
* Divine presence becomes more evident in difficult seasons.
4. Believers Must Not Suffer for Evil Doing
Text: 1 Peter 4:15
Not every suffering is godly suffering. Christians should avoid suffering that comes as a result of sin, wrongdoing, or disobedience.
Lessons:
* Christians must live upright lives.
* Our conduct should glorify God.
* There is no reward for suffering caused by wrongdoing.
5. Godly Suffering Brings Glory to God
Text: 1 Peter 4:16
A believer should never be ashamed to suffer as a Christian, but should glorify God through it.
Lessons:
* Christian suffering becomes a testimony.
* Our endurance can inspire others.
* God is glorified when believers remain faithful.
6. Commit Yourself to God During Suffering
Text: 1 Peter 4:19
Peter encouraged believers to commit their souls to God while continuing in well doing.
Lessons:
* Trust God even in difficult times.
* Remain faithful and steadfast.
* God is a faithful Creator who never fails His people.
Conclusion
Godly suffering is not a sign of God’s absence but often a pathway to spiritual growth, divine glory, and eternal reward. Every believer should remain steadfast, faithful, and committed to God during trials. In every season of suffering, God’s grace is sufficient, and victory is certain for those who endure faithfully.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word. Give us the grace to endure every trial and suffering that comes our way as Christians. Help us to remain faithful, steadfast, and committed to You at all times. Let every challenge in our lives produce glory, victory, and spiritual growth. Strengthen us by Your Spirit and help us never to be ashamed of standing for Christ. In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen.
The Service also featured Thanksgiving from the family of Late Anwi Eze for a successful burial.
