The Lord Jesus Christ had been abused and maligned because of his faithfulness to God, enduring arrest, beatings, and even crucifixion. As Jesus had foretold (John 15:18–19), Peter and the other apostles were also arrested, imprisoned, and beaten because they spoke in Jesus’ name. Their response to this trial was that they rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name
(Acts 5:41). That they were treated as Christ was treated was confirmation to them of their unity with him, and that is clearly an enriching reality worth rejoicing in. Note: Peter himself had experienced the opposite when he denied any affiliation with Jesus Christ (to escape possible suffering) and ended up in great distress (Mark 14:66–72).
13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.