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Much More than Mere Exampleⁱ

Fourth Sunday of Easter (YrA)

Psalm 23;
Acts 2:42-47;
1 Peter 2:19-25;
John 10:1-10

Message presented by Rev. Frank C. Ruffatto

For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
- 1 Peter 2:19-25

Through our reading in 1 Peter this week we learn:

• Our Good Shepherd is our example in suffering… and so much more!

• Our Good Shepherd is an example of endurance… and more.

• Our Good Shepherd is the example of forgiveness for those who do us wrong… and more.

ⁱBackground and study material from Rev. John T. Pless, DLitt, assistant professor, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana, Concordia Pulpit Resources, Volume 30, Part 2, Year A – electronic version.