In his first epistle, Peter encouraged believers who were suffering persecution from a hostile culture. To stand firm, they would need to understand that their true security was in eternity, purchased for them by the blood of Christ. Christians are citizens of heaven, and they are aliens and strangers on the earth. When we learn to see things from this heavenly point of view, all that happens on earth takes on a different light.
In volume three of this series, Alistair Begg reminds us that the righteous suffering we experience is the pattern of Christ. Jesus has secured a heavenly citizenship for us through the cross, and He has also taught us how to respond to persecution in the world. Depending on His work of atonement and following His example, we may demonstrate a persevering hope amidst suffering that testifies to the work of God in our lives.