Big Idea: How to have hope when suffering for righteousness

1a. Consider the blessing God brings through righteous suffering
13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed.

2a. Consume your heart with fear-conquering worship
Worldly fear: Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,

15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy-

Benefits of fear-conquering worship:
1b. You’re prepared to make a clear defense- always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you;-
Books I'd recommend: Reasonable Faith by William Lane Craig, Always Ready by Greg Bahnsen, Apologetics to the Glory of God by John Frame, and Richard Pratt's- Every thought captive.
3 main kinds of apologetics.
1c. Proof- presenting a rational basis for faith.
2c. Defense- answer people’s questions/doubts/skepticism.
3c. Offense- expose the holes in unbelieving thought.

2b. You’ll possess a clear conscience- yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience,

3b. You’ll be protected by your clear character- so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame-

3a. Count righteous suffering as within God’s sovereign purposes
17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.
Why would a gracious and loving God do that?
1. Fix our eyes on the reward
2. Consume our fear meter with Christ
3. Witness to unbelievers