1 Peter 4
1 Peter 4 offers guidance on how Christians should live in the light of Christ's suffering and the anticipation of His return. It focuses on the themes of living for God’s will, enduring suffering as Christ did, and maintaining a vigilant, prayerful attitude while serving and loving others within the Christian community. The chapter underscores the importance of spiritual readiness and community in facing the end times.
1 Peter 4:1-2 (NKJV)
1 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,
2 that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.
Peter uses Christ’s suffering as a model for Christians, suggesting that those who suffer for their faith are breaking away from sin. The call to “arm yourselves” is metaphorical for adopting a mindset ready to face persecution and moral challenges. Living for God's will, rather than earthly desires, is emphasized as the purpose of a Christian's life.
1 Peter 4:3-6 (NKJV)
3 For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries.
4 In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you.
5 They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
6 For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
Peter reminds his readers of their past lives of sin and contrasts it with their new life in Christ. The "Gentiles" here represent non-Christian behaviors that Christians have left behind, leading to social alienation and criticism. The gospel’s reach extends beyond physical life, offering everyone, even those who have died, a chance to live spiritually under God’s judgment.
1 Peter 4:7-10 (NKJV)
7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.
8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”
9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
Peter emphasizes the urgency of living rightly as the end approaches, advocating for vigilance in prayer, deep love that forgives, and a welcoming attitude towards others. Christians are urged to use their spiritual gifts selflessly in service to one another, reflecting God's diverse grace in their community.
1 Peter 4:11 (NKJV)
11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the strength which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
This verse emphasizes the responsibility of those who teach and serve in the church to act as if they are directly representing God, relying on His strength. The ultimate goal is to glorify God through Jesus Christ, acknowledging His eternal sovereignty and power.
1 Peter 4:12-16 (NKJV)
12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you;
13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
14 If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters.
16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.
Christians are encouraged to view persecution as a part of their fellowship with Christ, offering them a unique connection to His sufferings and future glory. Suffering for being a Christian is distinguished from suffering due to wrongdoing. Those who suffer for their faith should see it as a reason for pride, not shame, as it glorifies God.
1 Peter 4:17-19 (NKJV)
17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?
18 And “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”
19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.
Peter warns that judgment will start with the Christian community, implying a need for genuine faith and righteous living. The rhetorical question underscores the dire fate of those outside God’s grace. Christians are advised to continue in their faith and good works, entrusting their lives to God’s faithful care amidst suffering.