1 Peter 4_1-19 (Verse-by-verse)

Passage: 1 Peter 4:1-19

Title: For the Rest of Our Time

Summary: Peter has a lot to say about time in this epistle, and in this chapter. Peter will described five attitudes that a Christian can cultivate in his lifetime (“the rest of his time”) if he desires to make his life all that God wants it to be, and to make the “rest of our time” count.

1 Peter 4:1–19 (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. 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. 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. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability 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. 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. 17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will bethe end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now “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’s Credentials / Still Feeding

Written by the Apostle Peter, whose credentials have been challenged because of his lack of education and training; but Peter walked with the Lord, the second Apostle called, and all could see that his power and boldness came because he had been with the Lord. For 3 years he walked with Jesus step-by-step, and now it is 30 years since the resurrection and Peter is still faithfully doing what the Lord commissioned him to do, “feeding His sheep”.

The Dispersed / Nero

He is writing to the Believers that have been spread out, dispersed form their homeland, thrown into foreign countries. Many of them are struggling and suffering; but their greatest struggle is yet to come, for in just several months Roman Empire Nero is going to launch and all-out attack and persecution against Christians, and over the next 2 centuries over 6 million Christians will die for their faith.

Why Peter Writes / Remember

Peter tells us in the Second Epistle why he writes to them (and us), to stir us up, to remind us, that we hang on to the things we have been taught in the Old Testament, the Epistles of the Apostles, and the teachings in the Gospels. He says remember these things, hold on to them, no matter how hard life may get.

(2 Peter 3:1 NKJV) Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder),

(2 Peter 3:2 NKJV) that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior,

Doctrine – Duty – Declaration

Peter pretty much breaks this letter into 3 areas. Doctrine, Duty, and Declaration; this book takes on the frame work of Ephesians, except Peter adds on the Declaration – The Lord is Returning – Remember that! Doctrine, what we believe and why. Duty, doctrine in action, living it out. Declaration, soon and very soon we are going to see the King, Hold-fast until then.

Doctrine: Remember Our Great Salvation (1:1 - 2:10)

The Certainty of Our Salvation (1:1-12)

The Calling with Our Salvation (1:13-25)

The Chosen of Salvation (2:1-10)

Duty: Remember Our Example Before Men (2:11 - 4:6)

Honorable Living Before Unbelievers (2:11 - 3:7)

Submission to the Government (2:11-17)

Submission to Masters (2:18 - 25)

Submission in the Family (3:1- 7)

Honorable Living Before Believers (3:8 - 12)

Submission to One Another (3:8 - 12)

Honorable Living in the Midst of Suffering (3:13 - 4:6)

The Principle of Suffering for Righteousness (3:13 - 17)

The Perfection of Suffering for Righteousness (3:18- 22)

The Purpose of Suffering for Righteousness (4:1 - 6)

Declaration: Remember Our Lord Will Return (4:7 - 5:14)

The Responsibility of Christian Living (4:7 - 11)

The Rewards of Christian Suffering (4:12 - 19)

The Requirements for Christian Leadership (5:1 - 4)

The Realization of Christian Victory (5:5 - 14)

Theme

He tells us to remember because of the theme of this book. The theme of this book is given to us in chapter 5:

(1 Peter 5:10 NKJV) But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal gloryby Christ Jesus, after you have suffereda while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.

The word suffering is used 16 times, glory 12, and grace 8. Peter unties these 3 words to write a letter of encouragement to those who are struggling and suffering, that their suffering will one day be transformed into glory.

Perfect / Establish / Strengthen / Settled

He writes to us so that we may be:

· Perfect- (mature) which means to mend (what has been broken or rent), to repair, to complete, to fit out, equip, put in order, arrange, adjust, to fit or frame for one’s self, prepare;

· Established– to set fast, confirm one’s mind;

· Strengthen – to make one strong;

· Settle – to lay a foundation.

Last Studies

The Outline for The Principle of Suffering for Righteousness (3:13 - 17)

· Attitude – How we look at Suffering – 1 Peter 3:8-14

· Altitude – Where we look during Suffering – 1 Peter 3:14-17

Outline for "The Perfection of Suffering for Righteousness" - (3:18- 22)

· The Flesh Dealt With: 1 Peter 3:18

· Satan & his Henchman Dealt With: 1 Peter 3: 19-20

· The World Dealt With: 1 Peter 3: 21-22

Theme Suffering / Light of Jesus Return / Remaining Time is Short

Here in chapter 4 we continue with the theme of suffering, but it is also going to be put in the light of Jesus soon return, that we are living in the Last Days, are remaining time is short here, in fact by the end of this study it will be 50 more minutes shorter.

Nicaraguan Time

When we were in Nicaragua, one thing I noticed was that my watch was of little value to me. I also noticed that not everyone had a watch. There was a saying there, you are on “Nicaraguan time”. Things just happened at their pace, on their time. “You are in Nicaragua now,” “and the first thing you want to do is to put away your watch.”

Return to States

In the days that followed, as we ministered in Nicaragua, we learned the wisdom of his words. Unfortunately, when we returned to the States, we found ourselves caught up again in the clockwork prison of deadlines and schedules.

Peter & Time / His Death to Come / The Rest of Our Time

Peter had a great deal to say about time (1 Peter 1:5, 11, 17, 20; 4:2-3, 17; 5:6). Certainly the awareness of his own impending martyrdom and seeing the signs of Nero’s soon persecution against the saints, had something to do with this emphasis (John 21:15-19; 2 Peter 1:12ff). If a person really believes in eternity, then he will make the best use of time. If we are convinced that Jesus is coming, then we will want to live prepared lives. Whether Jesus comes first, or death comes first, we want to make “the rest of the time” count for eternity.

I am reminded of the sons of Issachar. Among the mighty men of David were those of the tribe of Issachar whose special gift was their understanding of the times, a gift of prophetic insight; and this was such a precious gift because included in their discernment was the ability to know how to apply.

1 Chronicles 12:32 (NKJV) 32 of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their command;

5 Attitudes / Rest of Our Time

And we can! Peter described five attitudes that a Christian can cultivate in his lifetime (“the rest of his time”) if he desires to make his life all that God wants it to be.

Outline: For the “Rest of Our Time”

· A Militant Attitude toward Sin: 1 Peter 4:1-3

· A Patient Attitude toward the Lost: 1 Peter 4:4-6

· An Expectant Attitude toward Christ’s Return: 1 Peter 4:7

· A Fervent Attitude toward the Saints: 1 Peter 4:8-11

· A Right Attitude toward Suffering: 1 Peter 4:12-19

Prayer

The Word of God is Living and Powerful, and is ready, and will do a mighty work in our lives.

Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) 12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

In Every Study

· Who Is God? (How Great is He?)

· What Does He Think of Me? (How Wonderful Are His Thoughts Towards Me?)

· What Does He Want Me to Do?

· What Can I Boldly Request of Him?

· What Do I Need to Be on Guard of When I Leave Here Today?

Boldly come to the throne of grace, ask God to reveal Himself in a mighty way to you, and to do I might work in you, and through you.

Hebrews 4:16 (NKJV) 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need

A Militant Attitude toward Sin: 1 Peter 4:1-3

(1 Peter 4:1 NKJV) 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,

(1 Peter 4:2 NKJV) 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.

(1 Peter 4:3 NKJV) 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.

How can We Enjoy

Verse 1 - Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh: How can we enjoy that which made Jesus suffer and die on the cross?

Picture Solder – Equipment for Battle / Attitudes are Weapons / Outlook determines Outcome

The word “arm” means, equip yourself with armor. The picture is that of a soldier who puts on his equipment and arms himself for battle.

· Our attitudes are weapons, and weak or wrong attitudes will lead us to defeat.

· Outlook determines outcome,

· and a believer must have the right attitudes if he is to live a right life.

We are to have a militant attitude towards sin in our lives, we are at war.

Fancy Restaurant

Ever meet in a fancy restaurant, one of those places where the lights are low, and you need a miner’s helmet to find your table. You’ll notice that only after a few minutes of looking at the menu, you’ll be amazed how easily you can read it. It doesn’t take us long to get accustomed to the darkness.

Sermon Sentence / Gradually get Use to Sin / Sin Destroy Rest of Time

There is a sermon in that sentence: It is easy for Christians to get accustomed to sin. Instead of having a militant attitude that hates and opposes it, we gradually get used to sin, sometimes without even realizing it. The one thing that will destroy “the rest of our time” is sin. A believer living in sin is a terrible weapon in the hands of Satan. Peter presented several arguments to convince us to oppose sin in our lives.

The Lord Dealt with Sin / Had a Militant Attitude toward Sin

Our Lord came to earth to deal with sin and to conquer it forever.

· He dealt with the ignorance of sin by teaching the truth and by living it before men’s eyes.

· He dealt with the consequences of sin by healing and forgiving; and, on the cross,

· He dealt the final deathblow to sin itself.

He was armed, as it were, with a militant attitude toward sin, even though He had great compassion for lost sinners.

Goal is to Cease / Suffered & Pharaoh / Visited Suffering People

Verse 1 - for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin: Our goal in life is to “cease from sin.” We will not reach this goal until we die, or are called home when the Lord returns; but this should not keep us from striving (1 John 2:28-3:9). Peter did not say that suffering of itself would cause a person to stop sinning. Pharaoh in Egypt went through great suffering in the plagues, and yet he sinned even more! I have visited suffering people who cursed God and grew more and more bitter because of their pain.

Suffering plus Jesus – Helps Us / Sin Dealt With – Last Study / Same Attitude as Jesus

Suffering, plus Christ in our lives, can help us have victory over sin. But the central idea here seems to be the same truth taught in Romans 6, remember back to our last study on baptism: We are identified with Christ in His suffering and death, and therefore can have victory over sin. As we yield ourselves to God, and have the same attitude toward sin that Jesus had, we can overcome the old life and manifest the new life.

In Remembrance of Me / Remembrance

Do this in remembrance of Me. Remember the price of sin. God became man, the man became the Lamb, and the Lamb became the worm. Crushed and bruised for our iniquity:

(Luke 22:19 NKJV) And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me."

(Luke 22:20 NKJV) Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.

Tough Times Loosens Grip / See the Devastation – Fallen World

When you go through tough times, realize, that suffering loosens sin’s grip on us. That is one of the purposes of suffering. When you go through suffering, you no longer give in to the lusts of the flesh; you no longer succumb to sin with the same ease, the same vulnerability you experienced previously. When you see the devastation and destruction that sin has upon this fallen world, your heart will be turned against it. That’s what suffering does. That’s what trials do. The ugliness of sin is seen when it begins to touch your own life. That is why Peter says, “If you’ve suffered in the flesh—either due to your own sin or sin by the hands of others—you see the result of sin and realize that rather than being something to wink or chuckle at, sin stinks.”

We will get sick and tired of being sick and tired, of all the pain and consequences sin brings into our lives.

Verse 2 / Mark It / Rest of Your Time / That is all you Have Left / What Do with It?

Verse 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. Mark that phrase in your Bibles, and may it ring in your head every day when you first awake, and throughout your whole day – The Rest of Your Time. That is all you have left, is the rest of your time, what are you going to do with it? For starters God wants you to have a militant attitude towards Sin

Verse 3 / The List / Not Legalism – The Word

Then Peter lists the things we are to be militant about, have no mercy, take no prisoners. Do not let it be so amongst you. This isn’t legalism, it is the Word of God:

(1 Peter 4:3 NKJV) 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.

The time before the believers became Christians, Peter said, was long enough and should “suffice” (arketos, be sufficient) for them to have “wrought” (katergasasthai, work, perform) the pleasures of the “Gentiles” (ethnōn, nations, heathen, non-Jewish people). Prior to conversion they “walked” (peporeumenous, go, journey) in “lasciviousness” (aselgeiais, shocking indecency, unbridled lustful indulgence, as in 2 Peter 2:7), “lusts” (epithumiais, strong desire, craving), “excess of wine” (oinophlugiais, winebibbing, drunkenness), “revelings” (kōmois, rioting, wild parties), “banquetings” (potois, carousal, drinking bout), “abominable idolatries” (athemitois eidōlolatreiais, lawless, wanton acts that were part of the lewd orgies connected with pagan image-worship). There is no allowance here for Christians to “exercise personal liberty” to drink and carouse. Peter described the lewd idolatries as athemitois (abominable, unlawful), the same word he used in Acts 10:28 to describe a Jew’s association with a non-Jew. In that case he was referring to Mosaic law, but here he may have been referring to Roman law also, for this lewd behavior was so abhorrent it was forbidden by Roman law as well as God’s law

Harris, R. W., ed. (1989). Hebrews–Jude (p. 299). World Library Press.

A Patient Attitude toward the Lost: 1 Peter 4:4-6

(1 Peter 4:4 NKJV) 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.

(1 Peter 4:5 NKJV) They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

(1 Peter 4:6 NKJV) 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.

Some Cults

Verse 6 - For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead: Some cults use this verse to say, “When a person dies, they’ll have a second opportunity to accept the gospel.” However, taken in context, it’s clear Peter is talking about those who suffered to the point of death and are now living in heaven.

Think it Strange / Wreck Life – Sin to Sin / Drunk Sober – Immoral Pure

Verse 4 – they think it strange you do not run with them: Unsaved people do not understand the radical change that their friends experience when they trust Christ and become children of God. They do not think it strange when people wreck their bodies, destroy their homes, and ruin their lives by running from one sin to another! But let a drunkard become sober, or an immoral person pure, and the family thinks he has lost his mind! Festus told Paul, “You are out of your mind!” (Acts 26:24, nasb) and people even thought the same thing of our Lord (Mark 3:21).

I remember hearing after I gave my life to the Lord, people would say, “I miss the ole Ray”, and I am saying to myself, I don’t, that life was empty and vain. People thought I lost my mind, but the fact is for the first time I was in my right mind.

They Can Understand That

You see they can’t understand them, because they are unregenerate by the Spirit of God. If you think your family member or friend has lost it, then I beseech you to ponder this verse and search your heart and see if maybe it is you, maybe you are blinded:

(1 Corinthians 2:14 NKJV) But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

(2 Corinthians 4:3 NKJV) But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing,

(2 Corinthians 4:4 NKJV) whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.

Must be Patient / They are Blinded

We must be patient toward the lost, even though we do not agree with their lifestyles or participate in their sins. After all, unsaved people are blind to spiritual truth (2 Cor. 4:3-4) and dead to spiritual enjoyment (Eph. 2:1). In fact, our contact with the lost is important to them since we are the bearers of the truth that they need. When unsaved friends attack us, this is our opportunity to witness to them (1 Peter 3:15).

They will be Judged / Change your Attitude / Revelation 6-19

(1 Peter 4:5 NKJV) They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. - The unsaved may judge us, but one day, God will judge them. Instead of arguing with them, we should pray for them, knowing that the final judgment is with God. This was the attitude that Jesus took (2:23), and also the Apostle Paul (2 Tim. 2:24-26). Don’t worry about your pride, let God change your attitude about the lost and you won’t care about your pride, for your heart will break because of the fact that they are not saved from the wrath of God’s judgement to come. Read Revelation chapter 6-19 and your heart will break for the wrath they will face, we must have a “Patient Attitude” with the Lost, in hopes that they may repent and give their life to Jesus Christ.

Where do they Go when Suffering?

In terms of suffering, where does the unbeliever go in their time of suffering. We have our heavenly Father to call out to, to cling to, to draw strength from, but the unbeliever, I can’t imagine what it must be like to endure suffering without God to callout to. We have to have patient attitude with the unsaved, they need our love and comfort.

Declaration: Remember Our Lord Will Return (4:7 - 5:14)

The Responsibility of Christian Living (4:7 - 11)

An Expectant Attitude toward Christ’s Return: 1 Peter 4:7

(1 Peter 4:7 NKJV) But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.

Soon / Suffering keeps Focus on Eternity / Shift Focus

Verse 7 - But the end of all things is at hand: Time is short, His return is soon, and He is preparing us for it. One way is by the trials and suffering we endure. Suffering keeps us focused on eternity. It’s when you’re going through tough times, difficult days, seasons of suffering, pressures and persecution that you long for heaven. The good times, the nice things, and the easier days have a tendency to shift our focus off of eternity. It’s when the tough times come—when the body hurts, the heart breaks, or the wallet is empty that we say, “I don’t belong here. I’m longing for heaven.”

They Expected / Not Lazy of Fanatics / 10 Commandments

Christians in the early church expected Jesus to return in their lifetime (Rom. 13:12; 1 John 2:18). Imagine how much closer we are now 2000 years later. This attitude of expectancy must not turn us into lazy dreamers (2 Thes. 3:6ff) or zealous fanatics. In this chapter, Peter gave “ten commandments” to his readers to keep them in balance as far as the Lord’s return was concerned:

· Be sober—v. 7

· Watch unto prayer—v. 7

· Have fervent love—v. 8

· Use hospitality—v. 9

· Minister your spiritual gifts—vv. 10-11

· Think it not strange—v. 12

· Rejoice—v. 13

· Do not be ashamed—vv. 15-16

· Glorify God—vv. 16-18

· Commit yourself to God—v. 19

Be Sober – Steady Clear / Stay Balanced / Setting dates – Naming the Anti-Christ

(1 Peter 4:7 KJV) But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

KJV, the phrase “be sober” means “be sober-minded, keep your mind steady and clear.” Perhaps a modern equivalent would be “keep cool.” It was a warning against wild thinking about prophecy that could lead to an unbalanced life and ministry. Often we hear of sincere people who go “off balance” because of an unbiblical emphasis on prophecy or a misinterpretation of prophecy. There are people who set dates for Christ’s return, contrary to His warning (Matt. 25:13; see Acts 1:6-8); or they claim to know the name of the beast of Revelation 13.

Problem – Consumed / News- Web / Maggots in Manna

Here is a problem that I see many Christians get sucked into, they get so consumed with prophecy, they spend hours reading the newspapers, cruising the Internet, listening and engaging in prophecy discussions, that they leave little or no time for themselves and the Word. It gets to, I’ll read the word after I check the headlines, but as you know, time evaporates on us, and we are not on Nicaraguan time, and off to work we go. There is saying in the south, “maggots on your Manna”. The children of Israel were told to eat all their manna for the day, and not leave any for tomorrow, those that did would awake to maggots on their manna. The same is true for the Christian and the word, whether it be distractions from searching out prophecy, or just laziness, the word that is not eaten today, is of no use for when tomorrow comes.

Rest of Time – Live in Light / Watch – Alert / Peter Slept

If you want to make the best use of “the rest of your time,” live in the light of the return of Jesus Christ. If we are sober-minded, we will “watch unto prayer.” The word “watch” carries with it the idea of alertness and self-control. This admonition had special meaning to Peter, because he went to sleep when he should have been “watching unto prayer” (Mark 14:37-40).

Intercession Prayer

We know Christ lives to make intercession, and He is praying for us, but that verse and promise goes so much deeper in that He intercedes for us before the Father, so to tell us what the will of the Father is for us, so that we may ask for the power and strength to do that will in our lives.

Romans 8:26–27 (NKJV) 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Hebrews 7:25 (NKJV) 25 Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.

Matthew 7:7 (NKJV) 7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

A Fervent Attitude toward the Saints:1 Peter 4:8-11

(1 Peter 4:8 NKJV) And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins."

(1 Peter 4:9 NKJV) Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.

One of the most beautiful acts of hospitality that I see in the scriptures didn't even happen by at that time people who were Christian but the story is that Paul shipwrecked they make it to the island of Malta it's rainy they're soaking wet and then the natives the locals they come out and they start to minister to Paul his companions and the Roman soldiers and it's just a beautiful picture and it's one that I wish would always be in the forefront of my mind in your mind people were cold people are soaked the world has drenched them they have nothing much of it has been shipwrecked and at the bottom of the sea of life and someone comes out builds them a fire of love and warms them and welcomes them and let them know they're not in alone

Acts 27:43–28:2 (NKJV) 43 But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, 44 and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land. 1 Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta. 2 And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.

(1 Peter 4:10 NKJV) As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

(1 Peter 4:11 NKJV) If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability 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.

Suffering Frees us to Minister / They were Scattered / Time absorbed in Stuff

Here is a beauty of suffering, suffering frees us to participate in ministry. With persecution heightening, no doubt Peter’s readers had already begun to scatter. Some would leave everything to hide in catacombs. Others would open their homes to those fleeing persecution. All would be called to love one another fervently, especially in those dark days of difficulty. So much of my time is absorbed with “stuff.” When my material, emotional, or relational “stuff” is taken away, I find I am free to share with and care for others in ways I never had previously.

Above all Things / In Light of His Return / Jewish Kabutz

If we really look for the return of Christ, then we shall think of others and properly relate to them. Love for the saints is important, “above [before] all things.” Love is the badge of a believer in this world (John 13:34-35). Especially in times of testing and persecution, Christians need to love one another and be united in heart. God gave me this verse when I was in Israel in 1996, as I watched a group of Messianic Jews at a “kabutz”. These people were outcasts in the Jewish community for their belief in Jesus; they lived on a farm/commune if you will, and grew all their own food, and then they served Christians tourist family style dinners, that were followed by festive song and dance. It was Jewish culture brought to life by the Spirit of God, it was tremendous. As I sat there, I had never saw such love in a group of believers in my life, and God said let that be your verse when you plant a church someday:

(John 13:33 NKJV) "Little children, I shall be with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, 'Where I am going, you cannot come,' so now I say to you.

(John 13:34 NKJV) "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.

(John 13:35 NKJV) "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

Fervent Love – Athlete Straining for Goal / Eagerness & Intensity

This love should be “fervent.” The word pictures an athlete straining to reach the goal. It speaks of eagerness and intensity. Christian love is something we have to work at, just the way an athlete works on his skills. It is not a matter of emotional feeling, though that is included, but of dedicated will. Christian love means that we treat others the way God treats us, obeying His commandments in the Word. It is even possible to love people that we do not like!

Fervent means “stretched out”, and that is a fact of loving others (agape is used here = unconditional love), and that is a fact that to love unconditionally we have to stretch ourselves out, extend ourselves, because you can’t love within your “safety box”.

Love Covers Sin /

Verse 8 - for "love will cover a multitude of sins: Christian love is forgiving. Peter quoted from Proverbs 10:12—“Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.” This verse is alluded to in James 5:20 and 1 Corinthians 13:4 and 7. Love does not condone sin; for, if we love somebody, we will be grieved to see him sin and hurt himself and others. Rather, love covers sin in that love motivates us to hide the sin from others and not spread it abroad. Where there is hatred, there is malice; and malice causes a person to want to tear down the reputation of his enemy. This leads to gossip and slander (Prov. 11:13; 17:9; see 1 Peter 2:1). Sometimes we try to make our gossip sound “spiritual” by telling people things “so they might pray more intelligently.”

No one can hide his sins from God, but believers ought to try, in love, to cover each other’s sins at least from the eyes of the unsaved. After all, if the unsaved crowd finds ammunition for persecuting us because of our good words and works (1 Peter 2:19-20; 3:14), what would they do if they knew the bad things that Christians say and do!

Genesis 9:18-27 gives us a beautiful illustration of this principle. Noah got drunk and shamefully uncovered himself. His son Ham saw his father’s shame and told the matter to the family. In loving concern, Ham’s two brothers covered their father and his shame. It should not be too difficult for us to cover the sins of others; after all, Jesus Christ died that our sins might be washed away.

It is Hospitable / Holidays

Verse 9 - Be hospitable to one another without grumbling: Our Christian love should not only be fervent and forgiving, but it should also be practical. We should share our homes with others in generous (and uncomplaining) hospitality, and we should use our spiritual gifts in ministry to one another. In New Testament times hospitality was an important thing, because there were few inns and poor Christians could not afford to stay at them anyway. Persecuted saints in particular would need places to stay where they could be assisted and encouraged. On that note, never let anyone, especially your fellow believers to spend a holiday alone. I have to remember, when I was a young single Christian how I was always invited over someone’s house to help them move, but how many Thanksgivings and Easters I spent alone.

Hospitality is a virtue that is commanded and commended throughout the Scriptures. Moses included it in the Law (Ex. 22:21; Deut. 14:28-29). Jesus enjoyed hospitality when He was on earth, and so did the Apostles in their ministry (Acts 28:7; Phile. 22). Human hospitality is a reflection of God’s hospitality to us (Luke 14:16ff). Christian leaders in particular should be “given to hospitality” (1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:8).

Abraham was hospitable to three strangers, and discovered that he had entertained the Lord and two angels (Gen. 18; Heb. 13:2). We help to promote the truth when we open our homes to God’s servants (3 John 5-8). In fact, when we share with others, we share with Christ (Matt. 25:35, 43). We should not open our homes to others just so that others will invite us over (Luke 14:12-14). We should do it to glorify the Lord.

Each have a Gift / Used for Serving

Verse 10 - As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another: Finally, Christian love must result in service. Each Christian has at least one spiritual gift that he must use to the glory of God and the building up of the church (see Rom. 12:1-13; 1 Cor. 12; Eph. 4:1-16). We are stewards. God has entrusted these gifts to us that we might use them for the good of His church. He even gives us the spiritual ability to develop our gifts and be faithful servants of the church.

There are speaking gifts and there are serving gifts, and both are important to the church. Not everybody is a teacher or preacher, though all can be witnesses for Christ. There are those “behind-the-scenes” ministries that help to make the public ministries possible. God gives us the gifts, the abilities, and the opportunities to use the gifts, and He alone must get the glory.

I like as it was said to me yesterday by a husband and a wife, they say to each other, “if there is a need and we can fill it, should we not fill it”

I like to add the word play, if there is a need, should we not “feel” it. Fervent love, serious prayer, will always bring us into “feeling” the need, and saying…… here am I God.

Oracles of God / Acts 17:11

Verse 11 - If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God: The phrase “oracles of God” in 1 Peter 4:11 does not suggest that everything a preacher or teacher says today is God’s truth, because human speakers are fallible. Whoever shares God’s Word must be careful about what he says and how he says it, and all must conform to the written Word of God. It is vital that every one of you be “good Bereans”, go and search the Scriptures and make sure the teacher is right. Be careful Christian, your emotions and sorrow for the need cannot allow for you to minister “emotionally”, and giving opinions or join into a person’s pity-party, it must be in alignment with the Word of God.

(Acts 17:11 NKJV) These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.

Declaration: Remember Our Lord Will Return (4:7 - 5:14)

The Rewards of Christian Suffering (4:12 - 19)

A Right Attitude toward Suffering: 1 Peter 4:12-19

(1 Peter 4:12 NKJV) Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you;

Sums Up Last few Studies

Peter sums up what we have been talking about for the last few studies; suffering are going to come, accept that and you can deal with them. Question suffering, ask why me, why this, why now, think somehow Christians would be immune from suffering, and you will suffer worse in your suffering. Peter says don’t think it strange here in verse 12, and notice, verse 19, that it is the will of God:

(1 Peter 4:19 NKJV) Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.

Last Studies

Remember the past studies:

The Outline for The Principle of Suffering for Righteousness (3:13 - 17)

· Attitude – How we look at Suffering – 1 Peter 3:8-14

· Altitude – Where we look during Suffering – 1 Peter 3:14-17

Outline for "The Perfection of Suffering for Righteousness" - (3:18- 22)

· The Flesh Dealt With: 1 Peter 3:18

· Satan & his Henchman Dealt With: 1 Peter 3: 19-20

· The World Dealt With: 1 Peter 3: 21-22

(1 Peter 4:13 NKJV) 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.

(1 Peter 4:14 NKJV) 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.

Not Replace – But Transform / Birth of Baby / Paul – Thorn / Jesus & Cross

It is necessary to understand that God is not going to replace suffering with glory; rather He will transform suffering into glory. Jesus used the illustration of a woman giving birth (John 16:20-22). The same baby that gave her pain also gave her joy. The pain was transformed into joy by the birth of the baby. The thorn in the flesh that gave Paul difficulty also gave him power and glory (2 Cor. 12:7-10). The cross that gave Jesus shame and pain also brought power and glory.

(1 Peter 4:15 NKJV) But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters.

(1 Peter 4:16 NKJV) Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.

Word Christian – 3 Times / Badge of Honor

The word “Christian” is found only three times in the entire New Testament (1 Peter 4:16; Acts 11:26; 26:28). The name was originally given by the enemies of the church as a term of reproach; but in time, it became an honored name. Of course, in today’s world, the word “Christian” means to most people the opposite of “pagan.” But the word carries the idea of “a Christ one, belonging to Christ.” Certainly it is a privilege to bear the name and to suffer for His name’s sake (Acts 5:41). To be called a Christian is an honor, a badge of honor, wear it proudly.

(1 Peter 4:17 NKJV) 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?

(1 Peter 4:18 NKJV) Now "If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?"

We are Saved – Barely / How Sad for the Unsaved

Note the words that Peter used to describe the lost: “Them that obey not the Gospel …. the ungodly and the sinner.” The argument of this verse is clear: If God sends a “fiery trial” to His own children, and they are saved “with difficulty,” what will happen to lost sinners when God’s fiery judgment falls?

(1 Peter 4:19 NKJV) Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.

Creator / He Meets the Needs – Protects Them / Sets the Attitude – On the Throne

Why did Peter refer to God as “a faithful Creator” rather than “a faithful Judge” or even “a faithful Saviour”? Because God the Creator meets the needs of His people (Matt. 6:24-34). It is the Creator who provides food and clothing to persecuted Christians, and who protects them in times of danger. When the early church was persecuted, they met together for prayer and addressed the Lord as the “God, which has made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is” (Acts 4:24). They prayed to the Creator!

Those who are experiencing the “fiery trial” are urged to “commit” (paratithesthōsan, put forth, consign) the keeping of their “souls” (psuchas, life, heart, mind) to God. The verb form denotes a continuous committing. The Greeks used this word in banking; it means to make a deposit. Peter urged the believers to place their lives in God’s safe keeping. Their suffering is “according to the will of God” who has allowed it in order to purify their lives. Therefore they can commit themselves to Him with confidence, knowing He who created them will be faithful to fulfill His plan for their lives through all their ordeals.

Harris, R. W., ed. (1989). Hebrews–Jude (p. 307). World Library Press.

Our Heavenly Father is “the Lord of heaven and earth” (Matt. 11:25). With that kind of a Father, we have no need to worry! He is the faithful Creator, and His faithfulness will not fail. Looking to Him as Creator, sets our attitude right, He is on the Throne – Amen!

Outline: For the “Rest of Our Time”

· A Militant Attitude toward Sin: 1 Peter 4:1-3

· A Patient Attitude toward the Lost: 1 Peter 4:4-6

· An Expectant Attitude toward Christ’s Return: 1 Peter 4:7

· A Fervent Attitude toward the Saints: 1 Peter 4:8-11

· A Right Attitude toward Suffering: 1 Peter 4:12-19

Prayer

The Word of God is Living and Powerful, and is ready, and will do a mighty work in our lives.

Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) 12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

In Every Study

· Who Is God? (How Great is He?)

· What Does He Think of Me? (How Wonderful Are His Thoughts Towards Me?)

· What Does He Want Me to Do?

· What Can I Boldly Request of Him?

· What Do I Need to Be on Guard of When I Leave Here Today?

Boldly come to the throne of grace, ask God to reveal Himself in a mighty way to you, and to do I might work in you, and through you.

Hebrews 4:16 (NKJV) 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need