The Story: “Being good” in a day when most people aren’t too concerned about that can be something of a challenge. It can be hard to remember what that requires, and it can be hard showing goodness to people, especially those who are “unjust.” What’s more, doing good to others can sometimes come back on us, so that – like the Lord Jesus – we may actually suffer for the good we do. That can be sorrowful, but it is not to be avoided. How can we sustain a life of good works in an age that doesn’t necessarily encourage such a way of life and that may even punish it? We have to remain mindful of God at all times. Keep your focus on Him. See Christ in His glory, looking favorably upon your sacrifice, and draw on the power of His exaltation (2 Cor. 4.16-18). Do good cheerfully and with respect, and let the Lord take care of the consequences. Only make sure, if it becomes necessary to suffer, that you not suffer because you deserve it!

The Structure: Believers who wish to do good can expect to be received like Jesus was. He came and did good and taught truth, and the effect was that He lit up the sins of wicked men, causing them to hate Him. We can expect the same when we insist on living out the goodness of Christ in our daily relationships and responsibilities. But that’s OK, because it is the will of God, and we’re always safest and strongest when we’re doing the will of God from the heart. The only way goodness is going to gain ground in this age in flight from God is if Christians make it their mission in life.

Look at Hebrews 10.24 – suggest some ways Christians can do this for one another:

Each week’s studies in our Scriptorium column are available in a free PDF form, suitable for personal or group use. For this week’s study, “Lived Witness: 1 Peter 2.13-25,” simply click here.

T. M. Moore

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.