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1 Peter 3:13-16 ESV

Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

I. KILLING THEM WITH KINDNESS (13)
A. You win people with kindness.
B. We are not at war with people but with the kingdom of darkness (Ephesians 6:11-12)
C. We don’t try and defeat people. We seek to win them to our side with kindness.

II. THE BLESSING OF PERSECUTION (14)
A. Persecution may come but if it does it is a blessing.
B. Persecution puts us in good company. (Matt 5:10-12)

III. THE FOLLY OF FEAR (14)
A. The fear of other people should not control us.
B. Fear either makes us wise or wusses.

IV. FIGHTING FEAR
A. The fear of fear cannot control us.
B. Peter overcame his fears and knows we can as well.
C. Obeying Jesus above all others gives an opportunity to tell the world of our hope in Jesus.

NEXT STEPS:
1. Repent of letting fear keep you from obeying God.
2. Do something you have been afraid to do but know you should. (2 Timothy 1:7)
3. Prepare to share the reason for your hope.