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Even though 1 Peter 3:18 is one of the greatest verses in the Bible, Peter introduces it incidentally while dealing with the broader issue of Christian suffering. This superb section of Scripture sets forth the wonderful work of Christ on the cross.
For Christ also
“For” — The previous verse declares that it could be the will of God that we suffer for well doing. Now Peter sets before us the greatest example of suffering, the Lord Jesus himself. By connecting this “for” to verse17 we see the connection between Christ’s suffering and our blessing. This “for” guarantees our eternal blessing.
“Also” — Jesus, like us, suffered for well doing. Jesus is not an example of suffering for non-Christians but for Christians. We cannot perfectly follow the example of Christ any more than we can imitate Rembrandt. Since we cannot follow his example, we cannot enter heaven and therefore we need a Savior. Only the death of Christ on the cross saves sinners. We cannot perfectly keep the ten commandments. We do not have it in us.
Principle:
Only Christ can sufficiently suffer for sin in God’s eyes.
Application:
Some people complain “What have I done to deserve this?” They believe that all suffering is from sin. They gain satisfaction from this thought, “O.K., I had this coming. I’ll stand up and take it like a man.” When the pain is over they say, “There! I’ve paid the penalty. I’m square with God.” This is double suffering, because now they grieve their Lord by suffering for sin rather than accepting the finality of Christ’s suffering for sin.
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