A reason

Peter moves into his “Have no fear mode” mode.

Have no fear of them, nor be troubled. 1 Peter 3.14c

Jesus said (in the gospel of Matthew):

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (5.10)

have no fear of them, (10.26)

do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. (10.28)

even the hairs of your head are all numbered.

Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. (10.30-31)

Then, Peter transitions into Jesus’ use-the-persecution-to-speak-out-the-Gospel mode (

Jesus said (Mt 10.18):

and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake,

to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. 

Peter makes the same point in his next verse:

always being prepared to make a defense to anyone

who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you…

1 Peter 3.15b

So, there we have it.

Yes, there will be seasons of persecution.

But there is a reason for the season.