1 Peter 4:1 Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin.
The theme of suffering continues, which Christ as the key example of enduring through suffering. There is a lot implied in the statement “Since Christ suffered in his body.” The word behind “suffered” here is a causal participle (pathontos) which results in our ability to have the same attitude. Christ’s attitude was to endure suffering even though he was righteous. His attitude lead to our salvation. There are two attitudes we should have in our suffering. First, we should have the same attitude of suffering so that others can experience salvation through our testimony. People will look at how we face our challenges. They will see that we do not compromise our convictions but have a peace and joy that are beyond what this world offers. This will make them wonder about the hope we have within us. Second, enduring through suffering shows that the world and its enticements have no control over us. Our physical bodies and all of their desires (instincts) have been sanctified to God. Our bodies are no longer controlled by and enslaved to sin. Suffering helps us realize that there is more to life than pleasures of the body. We are spiritual beings first and our home is in heaven. Being bound to this world in effort to keep happy, healthy, and wealthy is deceiving. All of this can be taken away through suffering. If we allow, God can turn our suffering into victories.
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