These 5 verses are central to the major themes of Peter's epistle. Further examination reveals additional passages in his letter which reiterate similar, all important truths... chapter 4:12-19, for example, echoes the concepts of purpose in suffering, identifying with Christ, joy in spite of persecution, Christian holiness, fear of God, Gospel centrality, an eschatalogical perspective, and submission to our Lord. All of these aspect of the believer's sanctification are the equipment granting endurance for the elect exile sojourner through fiery trial in the meantime between regeneration and glory. All the while, Peter reminds the church that these means are available to us via the saving work of Jesus Christ on our behalf. Peter emphasizes a 2 fold purpose for the sufferings of Jesus in our text today. In dieing on the cross for our sins, Christ proved both our savior and our example (exemplar). If the Lord of glory submitted willingly to the purposes of God in the Gospel, even unto suffering and death, then the exiled believer can rest assured of God's power and purpose in embracing a similar call which often attends our way in Christ. Peter grounds his admonishments on the scriptures which preceded him, recognizing yet again, that His Lord is in fact the Rock and the substitutionary sacrifice prophesied in Isaiah 28 and 53 even as He is the Shepherd referenced in Psalms 23, 28, and Ezek 34. This passage bids us to ask ourselves and others: “Who is the shepherd and overseer of your/my soul?” Think of how many influences are vying for that position, take them all captive to the obedience of Christ...