Strengthened for Suffering - Pt 6

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, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, 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. 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, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him. (1 Peter 3:18-22 ESV).

One last way Peter strengthens us for suffering is that shows us that Christ is at the right hand of God ruling over all angels, authorities and powers. He says, "He is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, after angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him" (v. 22). Take this one thought with you in preparation for your suffering. No harassing, oppressing, deceiving, accusing demon is free to do as he pleases. All angels, authorities, powers, devils, evil spirits, demons, and Satan himself are subject to Jesus Christ. When Peter says at the end of his letter (5:9) that the devil prowls around like a lion seeking to devour, resist him firm in your faith, THIS is the faith he has in mind. The faith that all angels, authorities and powers are subject to Jesus. This is what we rebuke and resist the devil with: “You are subject to Jesus.” Jesus reigns at God's right hand and the devil is under him. He can do nothing without his permission. He may be a lion to some, but to the believer he is merely a large cat on a chain. He cannot touch us unless Christ lets him. And he will only let the devil harm us to the degree that his touch will turn for our good and for God’s glory. As Moses told Joshua just before he was to lead Israel into the Promised Land: Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 ESV). So stand firm believers. Stand firm in this great faith, and arm yourselves with the purpose of Christ. The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. Let's follow him.