1 Peter 4:16

16 But if it's because you're a Christian, don't give it a second thought. Be proud of the distinguished status reflected in that name!

1 Peter 4:16 Meaning and Commentary

1 Peter 4:16

Yet if any man suffer as a Christian
Because he is one, and professes himself to be one. This name was first given to the disciples at Antioch, either by themselves, or by the Gentiles; however, it being agreeable to them, was retained; it is only mentioned here, and in ( Acts 11:26 ) ( 26:28 ) ,

let him not be ashamed;
neither of Christ, and his Gospel, for which he suffers, nor of the name he bears, nor of the punishment he endures, however ignominious and shameful it may be among men; but let him, as his Lord and master did, endure the cross, and despise the shame, ( Hebrews 12:2 )

but let him glorify God on this behalf:
that he bestows this gift upon him to suffer for Christ, as well as to believe in him; and that he does him so much honour to call him to such service, and to strengthen him in it, so as to take it joyfully, and endure it patiently and cheerfully. The Alexandrian copy, and some others, and also the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions, instead of "in this behalf", read "in this name"; that is, of a Christian.

1 Peter 4:16 In-Context

14 If you're abused because of Christ, count yourself fortunate. It's the Spirit of God and his glory in you that brought you to the notice of others.

15 If they're on you because you broke the law or disturbed the peace, that's a different matter.

16 But if it's because you're a Christian, don't give it a second thought. Be proud of the distinguished status reflected in that name!

17 It's judgment time for Christians. We're first in line. If it starts with us, think what it's going to be like for those who refuse God's Message!

18 If good people barely make it, What's in store for the bad?