Peter’s readers are going through suffering in 1 Peter. They are experiencing persecution for their Christian faith.
Peter further tells us that we have been called to put up with this yuck.
“For to this you have been called” 1 Peter 2.21a
And he tells us why.
“because Christ also suffered for you” 1 Peter 2.21b
Then he gets quite specific, so we can’t squirm out of what he is saying.
“leaving you an example” 1 Peter 2.21c
And, finally, he rubs it in.
“So that you might follow in his steps.” 1 Peter 2.21d
Following Jesus is not just a ticket to heaven, it’s following in His steps while we are still here on earth. He suffered for us, for our good. We should suffer for others, for their good. A tough job to be sure. But it is our calling as Christians. It is what is included in following in His steps.