(a) Why, according to Peter, should Christians rejoice inspite of the trials they may be...

Explanation

(a) Peter exhorts Christians to rejoice in the hope of the glory which awaits them owing to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Although in this present life, their joy might be limited by the trials and persecutions that would come their way such trials and persecutions are meant to prove the genuineness of their faith and make them to reap the rich reward a salvation when Jesus is revealed. In order to fully realize the hope of salvation, Christians should live holy lives in the full knowledge that God, the impartial judge would take note of their sufferings on the day of judgement. Furthermore, they should not forget that Jesus himself passed through greater suffering. If they were reproached for the name of Christ, they should count themselves blessed. They should, however, not suffer as murderers, thieves, or for any wrong doing but if they suffer for Christ, they should not be ashamed. They should instead, glorify God for on that day, judgement would begin with those who call upon the name of God and the fate of the unbelievers might be terrible.

(b) Some of the virtues for a Christian to manifest inspite of trials are:

(i) They should not conform to the carnal desires of men of the world.

(ii) They should remain sober and hopeful of the glory and salvation that would be theirs when Jesus would be revealed (at his Parousia).

(iii) The fear of God should be their watchword because God is an impartial judge.

(iv) They should remain for ever in their Christian faith, unshaken by any wind of persecution, the affliction of the enemy or Satan, the devil.

(v) They should always praise God both in time of sadness and joy.