Serving, Suffering and Judgement

Recap

1 Peter 3 Overview

Order in relationships / Inner beauty of Character over external display / Unit and Compassion of believer

Responding to evil / Enduring suffering / Christ victory over suffering and death

Background

Chapter 4 of 5

Live for God Suffering Due to Faith 1 Peter 4

Let's delve into 1 Peter 4. This chapter is part of the First Epistle of Peter in the New Testament, traditionally attributed to the Apostle Peter. The chapter addresses themes of suffering, righteous living, and the anticipation of Christ's return. Here's a brief overview and some key points from the chapter:

Overview:

1 Peter 4 speaks to Christians about how to live faithfully in the face of suffering and persecution. It emphasizes living according to God's will, the importance of love and hospitality, and using one's gifts to serve others. It also highlights the attitude Christians should have towards trials and the significance of judgment beginning with the family of God.

Key Themes and Verses:

1. Living for God (Verses 1-6):

- Christians are encouraged to live for the will of God rather than human desires. Peter urges believers to arm themselves with the same resolve as Christ, who suffered in the flesh.

- The passage reminds readers that the end of earthly life is not the end, as God's judgment is assured.

2 Corinthians 4:18 “as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”

2. Call to Love and Service (Verses 7-11):

- Peter advises believers to be clear-minded and self-controlled, emphasizing prayer, love, and hospitality.

- He highlights the importance of using spiritual gifts to serve others faithfully, stressing that the strength and words should glorify God.

Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.””

3. Suffering for Being a Christian (Verses 12-19):

- Peter reassures readers not to be surprised by the trials they face, calling it a sharing in Christ’s sufferings.

- He encourages them to rejoice in their suffering, seeing it as a blessing, and a testament to their faith.

- The chapter closes by urging Christians to commit themselves to their faithful Creator while continuing to do good.

John 15:18 ““If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”

Reflection:

1 Peter 4 prompts reflection on how Christians respond to suffering and challenges. It reassures believers that trials are part of the Christian journey and emphasizes living a life that honors God through actions and attitudes.

It is rather the recognition that there is a divine rationale behind suffering. First, suffering is the one and only path to glory. It was so for Christ; it is so for Christians.

John Robert Walmsley Stott (English Preacher)

If you have any specific questions or need further discussion on certain parts of the chapter, feel free to ask!