1Peter4

Trusting in our Faithful Creator

So often we can get caught up in thinking things should be a certain way; we become discouraged because something didn’t happen like we wanted, or we are surprised because circumstances seem unfair or overwhelming. We forget God’s perfect love for us in providing all that is needed for our sake and His glory.

1Peter 4:17-19 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Chapter 4 of 1Peter began with the suffering of Christ and ends with the honor we have as His children to suffer for His glory. These last three verses continue to expand on the blessings of being God’s children, and even though difficulties may arise because of our faith, the outcome is our righteousness in Christ. But what about those who are not of the household of God? Our hearts should be moved towards compassion. God allows His children to be disciplined through adversity yet continues to care for them; those who are not His will suffer far more, facing eternal destruction.

For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God. We are to expect judgment. The Greek word used is krima, meaning a decision - the function or the effect, for or against; avenge, condemned, condemnation, damnation, and judgment. “… the severe trial which would determine character”, … “trials test the value of our profession”, Barnes. If we are not guilty, having trusted in the work of Christ on the cross, then the trials we face will be used for our correction and instruction, to strengthen our faith and trust in God, for our sanctification.

1Corinthians 11:32 But when we are judged, we are disciplined by the Lord so that we will not be condemned along with the world.

1Peter 1:7 so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

… and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

To those who are guilty, having rejected Jesus, the trials that come upon them are for their ultimate destruction resulting in condemnation for eternity. Compare the outcome for both the saved and unsaved:

1Peter 4:13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

2Thessalonians 1:8-9 dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,

The choice – eternal blessing or endless pain and suffering.

“What shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? How miserable, how dreadful will be the end of all those that would not obey the gospel! Implying, that they shall be in a much worse condition if God take them in hand. If he spare not his children, much less will he his enemies. If the one sip of the cup of God's wrath, the other shall wring out the dregs, and drink them”, Ps 75:8. Matthew Poole’s Commentary.

Consider. Judgment will happen. Will we be approved by God, having a genuine faith and trust in Jesus? Or will our ‘faith’ be discredited, showing us to be hypocrites, disobedient to God’s word?

Romans 2:5-10 But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who WILL RENDER TO EACH PERSON ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS: to those who by perseverance in doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life; but to those who are selfishly ambitious and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, wrath and indignation. There will be tribulation and distress for every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek, but glory and honor and peace to everyone who does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Matthew 25:32-34 "All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left. "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

Consider. A good parent would not allow their child to be undisciplined. They would correct their mistakes, punish their sin, and bring to notice their unyielding ways. All because the parents know that their loving guidance will prove to help them in the future. Think how much more our perfect loving Father will correct his children who wander off the path of righteousness. There is solace in knowing that Jesus paid the price for our sin. Even through trials, we are assured that God’s hand will hold us secure, that His love is victorious, and we can endure in His strength.

There is no lasting security in anything other than the name of Jesus.

1Peter 4:18 AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER?

Peter uses a quote from Proverbs 11:31, If the righteous will be rewarded in the earth, how much more the wicked and the sinner!

The Christians were to travel through many perils, and the circumstances around them would render difficulties at every turn, yet those who prevailed would be saved because of God’s perfect plan. Think of Jesus life, death, and resurrection. Only through His suffering could any be called righteous. Think of your own testimony and the circumstances which led you to accept Jesus as your Savior. Often, it is through problems which seem heavier than a mere human can possibly bear. If it is through so much trial that those who are inclined to truth are saved, imagine the suffering that will come upon those who reject Jesus.

Acts 14:22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, "Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God."

1Peter 4:12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;

Read this remark penned by Spurgeon, “A solemn question! Answer it, each one of you, if you are still unsaved. Where will you appear? Oh, be wise, and fly to Jesus; enlist beneath his banner, cost you what it may. May the Lord lead you to do so”.

1Peter 5:8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

1Corinthians 10:12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall.

The bottom line: For those who insist on following sin there is awaiting eternal condemnation. But for those seeking to follow God, even though tested, they can trust in His perfect plan.

1Peter 4:19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Psalm 31:5 Into Your hand I commit my spirit; you have ransomed me, O LORD, God of truth.

2Timothy 1:12 For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.

Psalm 37:5-6 Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your judgment as the noonday.

Are you confident in God’s faithfulness, that He will guide you through all difficulties for His glory?

1Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.

Going back to the beginning of this Chapter, Christians are to expect trouble yet also can expect the protection of God’s hand on their lives here on earth and for eternity. In the meantime, we are to love one another, encourage one another, be hospitable towards one another, and serve one another with the gifts and strengths God has given, knowing this is God’s plan and His will prevails. We are to make certain our speech glorifies God and even through trials we are to keep on rejoicing, looking to God’s future glory and the promise of our salvation. We will suffer difficulties because of our union with Christ but we are to make certain our suffering is not of our own sin and waywardness.

“In this great work, watchfulness, prayer; faith, and obedience, are indispensably necessary. He who does not walk with God here cannot see nor enjoy him hereafter”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Carefully read 1Peter 4:19 again –

Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

When I read this, I am reminded that I simply do not need to understand everything – the why, the what, the how or even how come. Where I need to put my energy and thoughts is in trusting that God not only has all things in His hands but that He is doing, and will do, everything according to His plan, at the perfect time, in the perfect way, for His ultimate glory and our good. So often we can get caught up in thinking things should be a certain way; we become discouraged because something didn’t happen like we wanted, or we are surprised because circumstances seem unfair or overwhelming. We forget God’s perfect love for us in providing all that is needed for our sake and His glory.

Matthew 7:9-11 “Or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? “Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give a snake, will he? “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!

Romans 8:28;31 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. … What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?

Psalm 56:10-11 In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise, in God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?

2Corinthians 5:5-7 Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge. Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord-- for we walk by faith, not by sight--

To entrust our souls to God means that we present ourselves to Him for protection. The KJV reads, “commit the keeping of their souls”. This is a continuous action – keep on committing, and is a banking term as in ‘to deposit’. This same term is used in 1Timothy 1:18, 2Timothy 2:2, and Luke 23:46.

1Timothy 1:18-19 This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight, keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.

2Timothy 2:2 The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

Luke 23:46 And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, "Father, INTO YOUR HANDS I COMMIT MY SPIRIT." Having said this, He breathed His last.

Be reminded of who it is you are trusting – your faithful Creator. Jesus’ example was to trust the Father.

When I read this, calm enters my soul. Rest, peace, and assurance flood out any thoughts of confusion, anxiousness, and fear. Our faithful Creator, our Father, the One who knows us best and died for us because He loves us more than we can imagine, is taking care of us. We are unable to save ourselves; we are unable to save our souls; God alone is able.

We can place ourselves confidently in our Creator’s hands. God will always fulfill His promises to those who are seeking to follow Him. As we continue trying to do what is right, serving one another in His strength, we can be certain God will take care of the rest.

“As our Creator we may come to him, and look to him for his protection and care. He made us. He had a design in our creation. He so endowed us that we might live for ever, and so that we might honour and enjoy him. He did not create us that we might be miserable; nor does he wish that we should be. He formed us in such a way that, if we choose, we may be eternally happy. In that path in which he has appointed us to go, if we pursue it, we may be sure of his aid and protection. If we really aim to accomplish the purposes for which we were made, we may be certain that he will show himself to be a "faithful Creator;" one in whom we may always confide”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

“A faithful creator; able and willing to sustain, comfort, and bless them under all trials, and in due time to save them with an everlasting salvation”, Family Bible Notes.

John Wesley’s Notes gives a good summary of 1Peter 4:19 –

Let them that suffer according to the will of God- Both for a good cause, and in a right spirit.

Commit to him their souls- (Whatever becomes of the body) as a sacred depositum.

In well doing- Be this your care, to do and suffer well: He will take care of the rest.

As unto a faithful Creator- In whose truth, love, and power, ye may safely trust.

Lord, keep us from sin, help us to remain focused on doing Your will through serving others well, let us not become distracted by sin around us or the ill-meaning of others, preserve us in holiness for Your glory. Whatever we may suffer here on earth, let us remember it is temporary; our eternal home awaits.

“Observe here, 1. A cautionary direction given, that in all our sufferings we take care that we suffer according to the will of God: that is, for what is according to God's will, either to be believed or practised by us, for asserting and maintaining the purity of the Christian doctrine and worship; and when our patience under such sufferings is as extensive and intensive as God requires, when our patience is as large and as lasting as our troubles, then may we be said to suffer according to the will of God.

Observe, 2. The special privilege allowed to such sufferers as suffer according to the will of God: they may commit the keeping of their souls to God in well-doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Learn hence, 1. That when men suffer really and truly for well-doing, they may with confidence and great assurance commit their lives, and all that is dear unto them, to the special care of the divine providence; either God will keep us from, or support us under, trials, when we thus commit ourselves to him”, William Burkitt New Testament.

Consider it all Joy!

We may be dishonored and rejected by the world, however we are honored to belong to Christ, to be received by Him, and to give glory to His name. … I can think of no better protection or encouragement than to know I am held in God’s hand and given His grace to accomplish His will.

1Peter 4:14

General Review – who is Peter writing to? Why?

Read 1Peter1:1-7.

1Peter 4 follows the instruction given in 1Peter 3 to live in a way pleasing and acceptable to God, regardless of negative feedback. We are ambassadors for Christ, and we will experience persecution of some sort, however we are to continuously respond in a manner which represents Jesus’ example, keeping our focus on our purpose – to glorify God – and our reward, which is eternal life with our Savior.

Peter then gives a charge to believers to serve and love one another with the unique and individual strengths God has supplied each of His children. The reminder is to not be surprised by the challenges and difficulties that enter into our lives, but rather see them as an opportunity to prove our faith, and in that assurance, have an attitude of rejoicing.

1Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

Now, on to our text. We will pick up where we left off in 1Peter Chapter 4.

1Peter 4:14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

No one likes to be made fun of; we want to be accepted and liked. To be ‘reviled’ in this verse means to be defamed; railed at, chided, taunted, reproached, and to suffer. If we think back again to the recipients of Peter’s instructions, they did not fit in with the norm. Perhaps you can imagine being the person who is different than the rest. When we think or speak differently, dress differently, and act differently, we are often exposed to ridicule. Consider being made fun of, or in the case of Peter’s audience, to be persecuted, for your faith. There would be a struggle to remain steadfast. Yet, the instruction was to consider their suffering as a blessing. Adversity was an opportunity to prove their faith and move forward in the strength God supplied. We see the Apostle’s encouragement threaded through his entire epistle. You can almost picture him coming alongside individuals, patting them on the shoulder, praying with them, reminding them of their commission, and then sending them off to continue their work for the Kingdom.

1Peter 2:19 For this finds favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a person bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly.

1Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

Isaiah 51:7 "Listen to Me, you who know righteousness, a people in whose heart is My law; do not fear the reproach of man, nor be dismayed at their revilings.

I think of peer pressure. This can be positive or negative. In either case, there is an influence to be like others. Sometimes it is not so difficult to stand out, but there are times when we weaken and allow ourselves to be pulled along a path we wouldn’t choose for ourselves. What do you do in order to remain strong in your decision to follow Jesus? What is your reaction to those who oppose your faith?

Perhaps these are the thoughts we need to employ, “I will not succumb to those around me; rather I will persevere in the truth of the gospel choosing to honor God rather than follow men”. Most of us will never experience real persecution for our faith, however we do need to take a stand as we find ourselves not fitting in because of our beliefs. What is your response when your faith is questioned, and others make fun of you because you are a Christian? How should you respond?

Consider yourself blessed! Our text says, ‘you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you’. In other words, our happiness comes from knowing God is working in our life through His Holy Spirit – proof of our relationship with Him as His child. To be blessed means we are fortunate, well off, happy. Think! “Wow, I really am God’s child”! This is an amazing fact and should put a smile on our heart even through the most difficult times. We may be dishonored and rejected by the world, however we are honored to belong to Christ, to be received by Him, and to give glory to His name. It is not that we find joy in being ostracized, but there is joy in being named with Christ, as His follower.

Matthew 19:29 "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name's sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life.

“To be reproached for the name of Christ is to be reproached for being a Cristian, that is, for being like Christ. This is the highest honour to which any man can arrive in this world, and therefore the apostle says to such? Happy are ye”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Matthew 5:11-12 "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

2Corinthians 12:10 Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.

James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

Consider the outcome of standing firm even through persecution for your faith. It is possible that others may be intrigued by your commitment; even to the point of wondering what it is you believe. Perhaps others might be saved because of your example. This is our commission, to represent Christ to the world in hopes that individuals come to a saving knowledge of God’s grace and mercy. Through all sorts of trials – illness, death of loved ones, disappointments, loss of employment or possessions – we are sustained through the Spirit’s guidance and work in us. When we recognize His work, undoubtedly knowing that supernatural strength to persevere does not come from us, we are blessed and encouraged. And sometimes others cannot help but recognize there is something ‘bigger’ in our lives than just what they see. Halleluiah for these opportunities!

Matthew 5:16 "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

1Peter 2:12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation.

1Peter 3:16 and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.

“… but He is eminently glorified by your patience and constancy, which are a proof of the power of the Spirit resting upon you, and working mightily in you”, Burkitt.

“In the meantime, while you are in this present world, and obnoxious to persecutions and injuries, if you are reproached for the name of Christ, {ye are} happy, and ought to reckon yourselves so, because the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you; which will support you under it, and spread a lustre around you; and {though} he, in whose cause ye suffer so unjustly, is blasphemed on their part, yet on yours he is glorified: it shows the excellence and sublime spirit of true religion, that it can support you under the opprobrious [offensive reproach] and cruel treatment which you endure, for adhering to it and defending it”, Doddridge.

Think of what it means to have ‘the Spirit of glory and of God rest on you’. I can think of no better protection or encouragement than to know I am held in God’s hand and given His grace to accomplish His will. I am not left on my own to figure out everything, neither am I without help when circumstances become difficult. God will sustain us in suffering; God is always victorious even though we may not immediately see the result of His power. All reproach and shame hurled at God’s children is conquered by His Spirit – we are never made to suffer alone.

James 5:11 We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord's dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.

Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.

John 14:16-17 "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

Psalm 146:5 How blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,

How will you respond to the truths in 1Peter 4:14?

For myself, I first need to remember that I should expect difficulty because I am a believer. I will not fit into the world and will sometimes find myself quite alone in my thinking and responses. I can forget this and then wonder what is wrong, when in reality there is nothing wrong at all! Others may think all sorts of things about me that are not true; I may be unfairly attacked by words; I may be ostracized and even challenged because of my beliefs. All of this should come as no surprise! We need to be prepared in order to respond rightly.

Responding rightly may mean listening intently to another’s complaint. It may mean being willing to seek to understand someone’s concerns even if we don’t share the same feelings. It is important to show patience with others just as God shows His patience towards us. We are not here to convince others of God’s truths; we are here to show compassion for the lost and to communicate God’s love through our words and actions. God does the miraculous work in a soul.

It helps me to consider how I might have reacted towards others before my eyes were opened to God’s truths. No one likes to be different! I remember thinking that the people I knew who talked about Jesus were just plain weird. Imagine knocking on someone’s door and asking if they knew Jesus! I was unable to comprehend why so much time and energy went into something or someone intangible. I also saw bad things happen to ‘good’ people, and this didn’t make sense. I thought if God loves us and protects us why are seemingly innocent people hurt? Now, when I consider the answer to that question, I am reminded of what it truly means to be blessed and protected by God. His blessings don’t necessarily imply that in this fallen world we are immune to the effects of sin. In fact, sin reigns all around us. God’s blessings does not mean everything is butterflies and roses; however, God’s blessings will supply His children with the strength to not be controlled by sin; and His protection will always keep our eternal future secure. Picture being a passenger in a car. When someone else is driving, even though your intentions may be to mind the laws, decisions made by the driver to disregard rules can totally affect you. If you are the driver and seek to be careful and courteous, someone else’s flawed decisions may involve you in an accident. Because sin is in the world, we are affected by its consequences.

The text in 1Peter 4:14 is focused on being reviled because you stand for Christ. This is not the same as experiencing trouble because you have chosen to do the wrong thing or have made a poor decision. It is finding yourself ostracized in your attempt to follow Jesus; being ridiculed because you do not ‘fit in’, or because people don’t like what you stand for or the message you try to share.

In some way or another, we will be chided for our faith in Jesus.
When we expect this to happen, then we will not be taken by surprise.
The ultimate goal for our lives here on earth is to share truth so that others might come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. We are to live in a way which glorifies His name.
It is a blessing to have assurance that we are God’s children.

Don’t Be Surprised – Keep on Rejoicing!

God’s glory revealed! Imagine. Truly, we are unable to conceive of the joy awaiting us.
We are here, on this earth, for the testimony of Jesus Christ. We have been given the privilege to stand for Him now, and in eternity we will bow before His throne of grace.

Before we begin 1Peter4:12-13, here’s a quick review of the Apostle’s words to the church in 1Peter 4:1-11.

Looking to Christ’s example, have the same purpose (v.1)

Live for God’s will (v.2)

Put off the desires of the world (v.3-5)

Keep your focus on Jesus (v.6)

Use discernment in your decisions and pray (v.7)

Fervently love one another, encouraging one another (v.8)

Show hospitality to one another without grumbling (v.9)

Serve with whatever gifts and strengths you have (v.10)

Be careful to speak Truth, serve in God’s strength for His glory (v.11)

The next two verses in 1Peter 4 give us instruction on what not to do and what we should do – Do not be surprised and Keep on rejoicing. We should not be surprised that our faith is tested; we should rejoice that our faith is tangible.

How do you most often respond to trouble? According to the scripture above, how should you respond to trouble?

Much of the time we are surprised with a sudden development of trouble. We go along with our day, fulfilling our responsibilities, and then the bottom drops out of the box! At this point we either take a deep breath and look to our Savior’s strength, or we hyperventilate and run around in a frenzy wondering what we are supposed to do. Our entire focus can change very quickly. It is easy to live for God’s will, keep our eyes on Jesus, be steadfast in our love for one another and serve in God’s strength, when the sun is shining! When the storms come, when we are challenged, when circumstances take a turn for the worse, we forget our purpose.

The Apostles’ warning to the church and to us – expect trials! Be prepared to respond well, knowing that your testing will grow discipline in your life. Trials allow God’s children to understand in a small way, what Christ did for us. Growing in our likeness of Jesus is painful; our testing can affect every fiber in our body and mind, yet our soul should be filled with joy that we are in the process of being transformed.

Beloved. Notice how the Apostle addresses his brothers and sisters in Christ. This is a term of endearment. He includes himself with them in his exhortation to act with patience and integrity under persecution. When our brothers and sisters in Christ are in the midst of difficult circumstances, we should come alongside them. The Apostle understands the difficulties and struggles these believers are facing. Being reminded of our purpose gives us hope. Knowing we are in this together gives us courage.

Using the term beloved highlights the Apostle’s relationship with these believers. Beloved is a word of kindness and inclusion. This brings to my mind two things. First, the description of love’s characteristics in 1Corinthians 13; second, that this exhortation relates to all those who follow Christ. Peter is not without the same struggles and testing of those he is addressing.

1Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant,

The kindness spoken of in 1Corinthians 13 is motivated by sympathy and understanding. It desires others to benefit. Peter is not scolding, neither is he being critical; he is showing an honest concern for the troubles his peers are facing. He is holding out an understanding hand. The Apostle places himself with them, not above.

Think of Jesus’ example. He came to earth as man, willingly choosing to lay aside His deity. He was still God but chose to interact as man not excluding Himself from the same troubles and temptations. He felt pain, sorrow, frustration, and abandonment.

Philippians 2:7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.

Isaiah 53:3 He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.

Jesus understands our struggles. The Apostle Peter was shown this very example by Christ Himself. In Matthew 14:31, Jesus took hold of Peter’s hand when he began sinking while walking on the water. Jesus indeed rebuked Peter for his lack of faith, but He also held him up and walked with him; He did not just leave him sinking on his own.

Think! Do you come alongside others to encourage them, or do you hold yourself distant? Are you seeking to get from others or to give to others? There is a term called a “fair-weather friend”. This description is of someone who is by your side until trouble hits, then they are nowhere to be found! Remember the several accounts of the disciples who kept themselves scarce while Jesus was arrested?

Matthew 26:56 "But all this has taken place to fulfill the Scriptures of the prophets." Then all the disciples left Him and fled. (Also vs. 69)

Our text reads do not be surprised. Literally, think it not strange. We are to expect trouble! It was not unusual for those who followed God to be persecuted. We are extremely blessed to have freedoms in our Country which allow our faith to be practiced and proclaimed. At this point in history, most of us do not suffer any real persecution for our faith, yet the world and its offerings provide plenty of temptations that draw us away. When things are going well, it may be easy for us to forget we are in a battle with sin. As a result, we are surprised when difficulties unfold even though we are told to expect problems. When we expect something to happen, we prepare in advance. So, for myself, when I am caught off guard with a difficult circumstance, it is a lack of remembering I am in a fight and a lack of preparing my heart each day and moment with the armor needed for the fight. Think! How do you prepare for potential problems? We think it wise to prepare for all sorts of catastrophic events – we know they will happen; we just don’t know when. Likewise, we are to expect trouble because of our faith – we are to be prepared for spiritual attack, so we are not caught off guard. This truth calls for action on our part. We are to think ahead how we will respond in holiness when our faith is tested.

Peter reminded the church to not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among them, meaning calamities or trials. This is the picture of something igniting a problem, referring to a severe trial. Liken this to the fire used to test metals removing their impurities. ‘Fiery ordeals’ relates to persecution as a direct result of faith in Christ.

2Timothy 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

Matthew 16:24-25 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. "For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

Acts 14:22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, "Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God."

Which comes upon you for your testing. Putting to proof by experiment, experience, discipline, or provocation; adversity; temptation. In this context, it means to try one’s faith for its quality.

Think! What do you do when you test something? Why are things tested?

1Corinthians 3:12-13 Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work.

1Peter 1:6-7 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

Consider. As a believer, you have been saved from God’s wrath. You are in the process of being sanctified – being rid of impurities – in order to be presented pure and spotless. Accordingly, should testing come as a surprise?

Colossians 1:21-22 And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach-

When we look at verse 13 of 1Peter 4, we are reminded that our focus is to be on the hope we have for our future. Even in the midst of suffering and persecution, Peter is guiding the church’s thoughts to their purpose in Christ. If we look to the example of Jesus, we will expect trials, or the testing of our faith. Think! If we have never been challenged to remain steadfast through difficulties, we might need to examine our sincerity in Christ – are we truly saved? Are you being transformed?

Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.

Today, we look at the cross and are reminded of the power of Christ over sin and death. In biblical times, especially in the Roman empire, the cross was a symbol of certain death by crucifixion. The words in the above verse are more than just accepting hardship, they are a statement of denying oneself for the purpose of Christ. Are we willing to die to ourselves in order to follow His Truths? What might this look like in your circumstances?

The struggles, difficulties, challenges, and testing, of our faith does not occur haphazardly. They are purposed by God in order to grow us in our understanding and likeness of Jesus. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that we encounter trouble. We can easily separate ourselves from the saints of old, thinking that was then, this is now. However, the need for salvation through Jesus’ death and resurrection is the same today as it was almost 2,000 years ago. People are still prideful, living for self, focused on their own glory, rather than obedience to God. Sin is still present and persuades us to its offerings. The testimonies we have of Christian persecution is real – if it happened then, it will happen now.

Regard the difference between testing and destroying. We are not afflicted in order to be wiped out. We are tested in order to examine the character of our faith; to determine its strength to stand firm; to prove its truth and genuineness in our heart.

What does it mean to ‘share the sufferings of Christ’? Everyone on earth suffers in one way or another at one time or another. But, suffering and ‘sharing the sufferings of Christ’ are different. The latter produces hope where the former has no hope at all. Sharing in the sufferings of Christ confirms our relationship with Him, our righteousness only found in Him, and our future resurrection from the dead, both body and soul restored in His likeness for eternity. The suffering we experience in this world is temporary; in God’s strength and guidance of His Holy Spirit, we can hang on while we look to our eternal future in heaven.

Philippians 3:8-11 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Romans 8:16-17 The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

John 15:20 "Remember the word that I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

Matthew 5:10-12 "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Peter urges the church to keep on rejoicing. Not for the trouble itself, but for the opportunity to prove that their faith was real, and for the assurance given them for their future. The joy experienced here may be mixed with pain and heaviness but one day will be pure elation. In the event we are chastised or ridiculed, overlooked, or even mistreated because of our stand for Jesus, we should respond with joy that we are indeed followers of Christ and are not conformed to this world.

Think! Are you willing to take a stand for Christ? When you are ostracized for your beliefs, are you still able to rejoice in the Truths you know?

Go back to 1Peter 1:6 and circle the word rejoice. Do the same for Matthew 5:12.

Luke 6:22-23 "Blessed are you when men hate you, and ostracize you, and insult you, and scorn your name as evil, for the sake of the Son of Man. "Be glad in that day and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven. For in the same way their fathers used to treat the prophets.

Acts 5:41 So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name. (This is after Peter and the apostles were accused and flogged for teaching about Jesus. Flogging or scourging was a usual punishment in the Roman empire. Typically, the accused were stripped of clothing then tied to a frame and beaten with rods.)

Acts 16:25 But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them;

Romans 8:17-18 and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

Romans 5:3-4 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;

2Corinthians 4:17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison,

James 1:2-4 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

“That I may know Him. That I may be fully acquainted with His nature, His character, His work, and with the salvation which He has wrought out. It is one of the highest objects of desire in the mind of the Christian to know Christ. … And the power of His resurrection. That is, that I may understand and experience the proper influence which the fact of His resurrection should have on the mind. That influence would be felt in imparting the hope of immortality; in sustaining the soul in the prospect of death, by the expectation of being raised from the grave in like manner; and in raising the mind above the world. … One of the things which a Christian ought most earnestly to desire is, to feel the power of this truth on his soul – that His great Redeemer has burst the bands of death; has brought life and immortality to light, and has given us the pledge that our bodies shall rise.” Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary

Philippians 3:10-12 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.

Lastly, the purpose or result of your rejoicing is that at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. This is exceeding joy, then you shall exult. Think extreme elation, triumph!

1Peter 1:8 speaks of Joy inexpressible and full of glory in our response to the salvation of our souls and the love we have for Christ.

God’s glory revealed! Imagine. Truly, we are unable to conceive of the joy awaiting us.

We are here, on this earth, for the testimony of Jesus Christ. We have been given the privilege to stand for Him now, and in eternity we will bow before His throne of grace.

“By such exhortations as these the heroes of the cross were trained to endurance, so that they defied death, and torments worse than death. Have we any of their brave spirit?” Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

1Peter 1:13 Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 25:21;34 "His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.' … "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

2Corinthians 4:8-18

Serving For Him and Because of Him

God uses us; however, we must be careful to remember He is the author of all good things. Anytime we are able to help, encourage, or serve, it is not to be for personal accolades. It is for His praise alone.

1Peter 4:11 Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

A few weeks ago, we began looking at this verse and concentrated on the Apostle’s admonition to be careful of the content of our words, Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God. No matter what particular gifts we may use to serve one another, our speech needs to represent the Word correctly. We are to be mindful of sharing words of encouragement, words of compassion, and words of Truth.

In the next section of verse 11, Peter now expands on serving – how we are to serve, and why we are to serve. Whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies;

What often happens when we seek to serve in our own strength?

The serving mentioned here is that of attending to another’s needs as a friend, or in ministry in specific roles in the church. Serving takes time, commitment, and energy; it often affects our personal life, finances, and requires decisions to put aside our wants and schedules to meet the needs of others. If you are involved in serving, you recognize that a large part of your life is spent in ministry – preparing, praying, and encouraging others. My own opinion is if you are bored, you’re not serving enough. Pull out a piece of paper and write an encouraging note; pick up your phone and share encouraging words. If you are lonely, you are not looking for opportunities to serve. If you become discouraged, disappointed, or depressed, serve more – get involved in people’s lives for the sake of encouraging others. When we are consumed with serving to benefit others, we will not have the time to concentrate on ourselves, our feelings, etc. We do need to take care of everyday responsibilities, so this does not mean we serve in lieu of dealing with the immediate things that need our attention. It does mean if we are only focused on our own issues, we are in danger of ignoring opportunities to help others.

How do we serve?

By the strength which God supplies. God blesses each of His children with gifts to be used for Him. Our talents, abilities, strength, and compassion, are not given to us to make us feel good about ourselves, instead we use these things to encourage others in the faith. All we are and have, is for God’s glory.

Romans 12:6-8 Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

“[Of the ability which God giveth] Perhaps the ministering here may refer to the care of the poor, and the ability is the quantum of means which God may have placed in their hands; and they are to minister this as coming immediately from God, and lead the minds of the poor to consider Him as their benefactor, that He in all things may be glorified through Christ Jesus. This is implied in the essence of any charitable act: the actor is not the author, God is the author; and the poor man should be taught to consider Him as his immediate benefactor. Those who give any thing as from themselves, rob God; for to Him the praise for all good, and the dominion over all men and things, belong for ever and ever. Adam Clarke’s Commentary

We should serve in humility, knowing it is God’s work through us;

we should serve diligently, knowing it is God’s desire for us.

Matthew Poole’s Commentary says, “Let him do it as of the ability which God giveth; i.e. not remissly and coldly, but diligently and strenuously, and with his might, as far as God enables him; this being to do it faithfully, which is especially required in a steward, 1Corinthians 4:2 In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy”.

Consider. We serve in God’s strength, using the gifts He has given to each of us. We are to be found trustworthy in being good stewards of the abilities we have. Therefore, we do not hide our talents in the closet but rather, we need to be sensitive to the areas where we can be helpful. In this way, the truths of the Gospel are manifest in our lives as a witness to those around us.

Why do you serve? What is your motivation?

There are some who are not believers, who serve others. But they get their rewards in full here on earth by men. The motivation is to do something good, yet invariably they gain something. A special interest of theirs gets attention, their financial donations offer a tax benefit, or perhaps they get support from a foundation they choose to help. Something or someone other than God is elevated.

Matthew 6:1-2 "Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven. So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full.

There’s lots of reasons people serve in the church. We need to be careful even when serving in the church body because our motivation may be for self. Some give of their time, energy, and resources because it is expected, and others may be watching. Some serve because it gives them a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, recognition, titles, popularity, and importance can be motivators in serving in a church body. But what if no one encouraged you; what if no one recognized your hard work; what if you felt unsupported and were even discouraged by others’ lack of response – would you keep serving? Do you serve when it means sacrificing your time, or when it gets difficult?

As a side note, we should try to show our appreciation for those who work hard to serve us so this is not a license to ignore those who serve diligently; but appreciation should never be expected. You should squelch those feelings of hurt when your efforts go unnoticed.

Consider what Christ did for us. He came to serve – not for His own benefit, but for the glory of His Father. He was ignored; He was not appreciated. He never belonged, in fact he had nowhere to even lay His head. Matthew 8:20 Jesus *said to him, "The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head. "He was of lowly birth (Luke 2:7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn). His ministry was challenged, certainly not supported (Mark 11:27-33); He was threatened, and ridiculed, beaten, and crucified. Yet, even while dying on the cross, He served – asking forgiveness for those who sinned and proclaiming salvation to one of the criminals crucified with Him.

Are you self-serving or serving God? Do your thoughts center more on how you feel or what you can do to encourage others? If you are serving self, you are likely to receive earthly benefits; serving for God’s glory will prove your eternal birth right.

Matthew 7:21-23 "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.'

We serve so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Remember the account written for us in Mark, of James and John asking who would sit on Jesus’ right and left in glory. They were all about themselves, seeking their own benefit. Jesus’ reply to them is recorded in Mark 10:42-45.

Calling them to Himself, Jesus *said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great men exercise authority over them. “But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

Whatever you do is to be done for God’s glory. The last part of 1Peter 4:11 reads, Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Revelation 5:12-13 saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing." And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever."

Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

Romans 11:36 For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.

Jude 1:25 to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.

Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Think of the words associated with Christ – glory and dominion. There is none other who can rightly claim honor, praise, and worship. There is none other who has power and strength over all creation.

Amen. Literally, this is a trustworthy statement.

Speak His Truths,

serve in His strength,

all for His glory.

Honoring God With Our Speech

Does your understanding come from God’s holy word? Do your lips speak of His truths? Is He honored by your speech?

Previously, in Chapter 4, Peter had reminded his brothers and sisters in Christ to live for the will of God, using Christ as their example. Last time we were in this section of scripture, we read verses 8-10. Peter gave some direct instructions in these verses –

Keep fervent in your love for one another (v.8),

Be hospitable to one another (v.9), and

Serve one another using the gifts God has given (v.10).

Peter had finished with the command to serve one another with whatever gifts they had. Now, he specifically addresses our speech and ministry to others. We will look at the first part of verse eleven in this study.

Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God.

Speaking includes talking, teaching, and preaching; basically, anytime you open your mouth. Most commentaries agree this instruction is more specifically directed towards teachers and preachers; however, this does not mean if you are not teaching, you are off the hook with your speech! But if you do teach there is an even greater responsibility to be careful to represent the Word correctly. We are to be careful with how we represent God’s word in all circumstances.

Think of your own speech. According to several sources, women speak an average of 16,000 to over 20,000 words per day, in some cases up to 25,000! Consider how many of your words are spoken from a heart which represents Christ. Our every utterance does not need to be a quote from the Bible, but it does mean that we are mindful to assess our words; that they encourage others in Truth. Kind and careful words can bless, while careless words can harm and discourage.

Colossians 4:2-6 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak. Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.

Grace-filled speech results from God’s influence upon our heart. It is a reflection of His work in our lives. The book of Colossians was written by Paul to the church towards the end of his first imprisonment in Rome. Prayer was instrumental in his own ministry and that of others. In the verse above, notice his prayer was for the purpose of sharing Truth. He asked that his words be filled with the mystery of Christ, and that his words would be sensitive to those who would hear. He reminded the church to use wisdom in how they responded to each person.

Titus 2:1-8 But as for you, speak the things which are fitting for sound doctrine. Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance. Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored. Likewise urge the young men to be sensible; in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.

The book of Titus was written by Paul to Titus who was most likely converted to Christianity by Paul’s ministry. These were Paul’s instructions to Titus and the church. Look at the emphasis placed on speech. Make sure your words represent truth from the Bible; not being a slanderer but teaching what is right. We can only speak what we know and understand. It is so important for each believer to search God’s word for direction.

Think! Does your understanding come from God’s holy word? Do your lips speak of His truths? Is He honored by your speech?

Psalm 34:13 Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.

David wrote these words when he had fled from Saul’s persecution to Gath. King Achish’s servants recognized David to be the one who killed Goliath, so David acted like he was insane to protect himself. Then David escaped to the cave of Adullam in Palestine. All the while, throughout his fleeing for safety, the Psalmist was still more concerned with honoring God. He knew God was his protection, and living in righteousness was his goal. In Psalm 34:13, he addresses the area of speech – keep your speech from evil, from mischief, from deceit.

Recognize, the rules do not change dependent on the circumstances. It is easy to use kind and encouraging words when someone is pleasant toward you. What happens when someone is inconsiderate or just mean with their words? Do you then revert to unprofitable communication?

Consider. Do you need to share everything? Do your words seek to damage another? What is the result when you are not careful with your words? Others are hurt, slandered, injured, and discouraged. Conveying someone else’s faults or shortcomings to another person, only seeks to pull down another while making yourself look better. Psalm 34:13 says keep your lips from speaking deceit; add to this flattery and false promises. Say what you mean with careful restraint, be certain your words are true and necessary. Always have the goal of encouraging another in holiness. We need to hold our tongues! There is a saying, ‘bite your tongue’. This is an idiom which means to stop yourself from saying something that might upset somebody or cause an argument.

If your relationship with God is right, your speech will be righteous.

In other words, if you are being conformed to the image of His Son through Jesus’ death and resurrection, desiring to be used by Him, seeking to carefully follow His commands, then your words will be characterized by His holiness.

Read this commentary on Psalm 34:13. “Keep thy tongue from evil. Guard with careful diligence that dangerous member, the tongue, lest it utter evil, for that evil will recoil upon thee, and mar the enjoyment of thy life. Men cannot spit forth poison without feeling some of the venom burning their own flesh. And thy lips from speaking guile. Deceit must be very earnestly avoided by the man who desires happiness. A crafty schemer lives like a spy in the enemy's camp, in constant fear of exposure and execution. Clean and honest conversation, by keeping the conscience at ease, promotes happiness, but lying and wicked talk stuffs our pillow with thorns, and makes life a constant whirl of fear and shame”, Treasury of David.

Don’t miss the illustration above. Try stuffing your pillow at night with thorns and see how restful your sleep may be!

Matthew 12:35-37 "The good man brings out of his good treasure what is good; and the evil man brings out of his evil treasure what is evil. "But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

Careless words are those that are useless, idle, and have no real purpose. They are based on trivial matters, and often unwarranted. Careless words lack a sense of restraint and responsibility.

James 1:19 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger;

We are to be ready to listen and understand – we cannot be good listeners if we are always interrupting; we are to be slow to speak – this is the opposite of being quick to respond; it does mean taking the time to ponder what is being shared and then being careful to base your reply on Truth. We are to be slow to judge – not quick in assessing wrong-doing or fast in our reaction towards another, instead we are to be ‘dull’ or soft, not responding from emotions, but rather from gentleness. If only we would seek to see others through the eyes of Jesus!

James 3:5-6 So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.

This is a strong warning! Consider how quickly forest fires spread and the destruction left behind. Our speech can spread information to others which can either bless or destroy. We need to be willing to ask ourselves what our purpose is, in sharing information about another person or circumstance. Are we spreading something that will hurt someone’s character? Are we conveying thoughts about a situation that have no merit or fact? Are you careful with the source of your information? It is not always necessary or profitable to share how others may have hurt or injured you.

1Peter 2:1-3 Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.

According to the verse above, where should our attention be given?

Speaking the utterances of God. What is the content of your speech? Are your words grounded in God’s Holy Scripture? Does your speech represent God? It may be prudent to consider the message you are trying to get across when you open your mouth. This is important for those who might be preaching or teaching, and for all those who claim to follow Jesus. Our words matter! Think! Would you speak the same if everyone were listening? Would your words change if God were standing next to you? HE IS.

Living for God

Consider who you were before being saved and who you are now. Your pursuits, your way of thinking, and your priorities should be as different as night and day. Only God can change a soul to desire His holiness. This was true a few thousand years ago and remains true today.

1Peter 4:3-5 For the time already past is sufficient [for you] to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousals, drinking parties and abominable idolatries. 4 And in [all] this, they are surprised that you do not run with [them] into the same excess of dissipation, and they malign [you]; 5 but they shall give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

Looking back to verses 1 and 2, we are to follow Christ’s example which is living for the will of God – this is our purpose. Our trajectory has been changed from a focus on self to a focus on holiness.

1Peter 4:3 paints a clear picture of the change that is wrought in someone who is following Jesus. The audience Peter writes to understands the former life he describes. He calls the believers to recognize the sin they had been entrenched in and tells them this way of life is now in the past.

‘For the time already past is sufficient [for you] to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles’ – the apostle is continuing his exhortation to live in the example of Christ, giving yet another argument or explanation of what they used to contrast with what they are to be now. Recall that the Gentiles had been actively involved in a sinful lifestyle which included all forms of idolatry. And the Jews had also fallen into the wiles of sinful behavior. The word sufficient does not mean this lifestyle was acceptable for a time; it does mean emphatically that it must not continue. This is like saying, ‘I’ve had enough already, it’s done!’. Think of all the time wasted in living a way that dishonors God. Once you are called to understand His truths, you are motivated to turn completely from your sin and move in the opposite direction.

Matthew Poole’s commentary suggests Peter’s words were “to stir them up to holiness by minding them of their former sinful life; ‘Ye are concerned to run well now, when ye have for so great a part of your time run wrong’.

One commentary reads, “for not even the past time ought to have been wasted in lust; but since you cannot recall it, at least lay out the future to better account”, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary.

Romans 13:13 Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy.

Ephesians 2:1-2 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.

Ephesians 4:17-18 This I say therefore, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart;

Titus 3:3 For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.

1Peter 1:14-15 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts [which were yours] in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all [your] behavior;

We could go on to investigate each corrupted behavior listed in 1Peter 4:3, but it seems better to look at them as a whole lifestyle of sin. Perhaps we are not able to identify with the specifics of the words used, however, we are able to identify with living for selfish desires. Consider who you were before being saved and who you are now. Your pursuits, your way of thinking, and your priorities should be as different as night and day. Only God can change a soul to desire His holiness. This was true a few thousand years ago and remains true today.

In this passage, the new converts, Jewish and Gentile Christians, are being reminded to live for Christ – behaviors quite different than before. When you change completely in your actions and thinking, those around you are either pleased and impressed and encouraged, or they are bothered and feel disdain because there is pressure on them to make a change also. When you no longer follow the ‘status quo’, you stick out, and it causes friction. This is the arena these new believers found themselves in. It is no different today.

Think of the culture we are in right now. What happens if you do not go along with majority thinking? The wording in the KJV for verse 4 reads, “wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them …” It is quite possible that others will think you are strange. Are you singled out for not having the same views? Do you think people are pressured to think and act in a way which accepts sin? There is a choice to make, are we choosing to glorify God with our lives despite any negative feedback?

Remember how the Jewish leaders acted when they saw others being drawn towards the Apostles’ teaching of Jesus? Acts 13:45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy, and [began] contradicting the things spoken by Paul, and were blaspheming. They felt threatened by this different thinking and were concerned that people were listening and perhaps they would become less important. So, they spoke against the truth. The response of Paul and Barnabas was to continue to boldly live for God. Acts 13:46 And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, "It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; since you repudiate it, and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles.

The Apostle reminds the converts that they ultimately will answer to God for their actions. It is not for us to judge, but instead to share the truth because we know judgement is coming.

Acts 10:42 "And He ordered us to preach to the people, and solemnly to testify that this is the One who has been appointed by God as Judge of the living and the dead.

Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Our purpose is to live for God. Your pursuits, the way you spend time, the words you share, should bring glory to His name.

Think of how God has changed you. Are you willing to stand for Him?

Unfortunately, it is easy to judge others. Yet what we are called to do is share the truth so that others are saved from God’s eternal judgment.

Praise God for what He has saved us from and what He has saved us to!

Living For God’s Glory

As a believer, you have a purpose. You are expected to live for Christ.

Welcome to thensingsmysoultothee.com! It has been one month since I have posted on my website. My computer had to be rebuilt after a massive crash. I do think things are up and running again. Please ignore the posts which have popped up without permission, I am working through deleting individuals who have managed to break in as admins on this site. If you are at all familiar with my blog, you will know it is all about the study and application of God’s truths from His word.

My last post was a video from Focus Heavenward Ministries, which is my YouTube channel. The last written study finished up 1Peter Chapter 3 - you can check it out here https://thensingsmysoultothee.com/hope-replaces-fear/. Today we’ll get back on track as we begin to look at 1Peter 4:1-2. Thank you for hanging in there with me! Also, look for a post announcing my new book, The Delight of Truth, Psalm 119:9-16.

1Peter 4:1-2 Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

Look back at the previous verses. Remember, Peter gave instruction in chapter three, for submission in relationships and to authority, using Jesus as the example to follow. Those who followed Christ were to live with an understanding attitude towards others, choosing to be a blessing. And even if suffering were to come because of their beliefs, they were to hang in there and continue to move forward in holiness, following the example of Jesus.

1Peter 3:18 For Christ also died for sins once for all, [the] just for [the] unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;

Therefore, considering all things written before, understand and accept your purpose. The Apostle is now giving his audience a charge to action: ‘Arm yourselves, live for the will of God’. His audience were the Jews and Gentiles who had been called to follow Christ. They formerly followed different beliefs – the Jews were caught in a web of legalism as they held to the practice of the Law; the Gentiles were entrenched in sins of idolatry and immoral practices. But now, their lives and purpose had changed. And with that noticeable change, came ridicule, persecution from others, and a pressure to return to their previous ways.

But God had an intentional role for them. They had been freed from the bondage of sin and were now living for Christ. Although this was written thousands of years ago, the message of God’s word is the same. As a believer, you have a purpose. You are expected to live for Christ. Before you were saved, you served sin; now you serve Christ, and sometimes it may mean ridicule or suffering because you act different, you don’t blend in with the norm.

Romans 6:1-2 What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace might increase? May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it?

Romans 6:5-7 For if we have become united with [Him] in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall be also [in the likeness] of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old self was crucified with [Him,] that our body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin; for he who has died is freed from sin.

Galatians 5:24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

Colossians 3:3,5 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 5 Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry.

In other words, therefore, since you are now saved and identify with Christ, act like it! First, we must seriously consider if we are able to identify with and agree with the scriptures listed above. This means we have a genuine desire to have sin uprooted in our lives; we recognize our need for forgiveness, and proclaim Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Then, we are freed to live worthy in Christ, in His power and strength. This is not possible if we are not saved; on our own, our best is epic failure! We simply are unable to fight sin without salvation.

Are we relying upon God’s strength to do His will?

Do we seek to live holy in spite of difficulties; are we resolved in our desire to follow Christ?

Are we willing to hold our plans, our passions, and our comfort as unimportant in the light of serving others for Jesus?

Notice the words, ‘arm yourselves’, in 1Peter 4:1. This means to equip ourselves; it is the idea of having weapons at the ready. We would not consider going onto an active battlefield without the weapons needed to defend ourselves. Yet, all around us is an active battlefield. Each day presents itself with opportunities for worldly thinking, enticement to sin, actions to choose right or wrong, and a myriad of ways to dishonor Christ with our lives. We need to be prepared to stand strong against evil. In your own personal struggles, think of your need to grow in self-restraint.

Genesis 4:7 "If you do well, will not [your countenance] be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it."

1Peter 5:8-9 Be of sober [spirit,] be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in [your] faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world.

Read the promise following 1Peter 5:8-9.

And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen [and] establish you, 1Peter 5:10.

How do you arm yourself for battle each day?

Turn to a well-known chapter in Ephesians. In Chapter Six, it speaks about obedience, attitude, doing God’s will, and finding strength in Him. Verse 11 tells us how this is possible.

Ephesians 6:11 Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

2Corinthians 6:7 in the word of truth, in the power of God; by the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and the left,

Ephesians 6:13 Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

Think! Are you doing everything you can to stand firm; arming yourself with the truth of God’s word for the purpose of doing His will?

What other tools will help you to live in the righteousness of God?

Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

Galatians 5:24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

What does it mean to deny yourself? Strong’s Greek Dictionary gives us this definition: to deny utterly, disown, abstain. This means to absolutely refuse, deliberately renounce, and completely refrain from your own self, your identity in the world. You now identify with Christ for His glory.

Let’s also break down the meaning of the phrase we read in Galatians, crucifying the flesh. This is a somber picture of being impaled on the cross. To crucify our flesh is to extinguish our selfishness, our worldly passions and desires. Jesus voluntarily obeyed His Father’s will and suffered death on the cross to purchase a place in heaven for us. His life was not about Him, it was about doing His Father’s will. Do we sincerely strive to put to death our own goals and pleasures in order to live for Him? Or do we laugh at sin, crude jokes, and treat lightly the world’s acceptance of immorality?

Jesus’ example was perfect submission to His Father’s will. In Christ, we have everything needed to live pleasing and holy unto God. However, this requires a continual surrendering of our will to live for Him, and a moment-by-moment dependence on God’s strength to fight sin. You will be set apart, you will look different, act different, and think different, and this may cause you to feel as if you don’t belong – well, you don’t! Are you afraid of being judged as too serious about living in holiness?

Hall’s Explication of Hard Texts, poses this question, “Do you labor to conform yourselves to Christ?”

Romans 6:11-13 Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body that you should obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin [as] instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness to God.

Romans 12:1 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship.

Let’s be serious in our understanding of the need to be equipped for battle. We are weak and we will absolutely fail if we try to do this on our own.

Numbers 11:14 "I alone am not able to carry all this people, because it is too burdensome for me. These words are from Moses in dealing with the grumblings of the Israelites. In fact, in the next verse, Moses actually pleads with God to take him out of the picture so that he does not need to continue to be confronted by his own inability.

In Matthew 26:38, Jesus asked his disciples to keep watch with him. Jesus was grieved as He understood the path ahead of Him and went alone to pray to His Father. Read about the weakness of the disciples in verse 40.

Matthew 26:40 And He *came to the disciples and *found them sleeping, and *said to Peter, "So, you [men] could not keep watch with Me for one hour?

We are all familiar with Psalm 127:1, Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the LORD guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain.

We need to arm ourselves with God’s strength. We are to die to the sin which entangles us and draws us away; not relying upon our own strength for the fight, but trusting in God – in Him all things are possible. We no longer live for self; we live to glorify God in holy conformity and obedience to His will.

How would you answer someone who says it is too hard to change, or “I have tried, and I just cannot do it”?

“The will of God, not our vile affections, must be our guide”, Thomas Haweis. In the same commentary we read, “The conduct of a Christian appears very strange to an ungodly world, and they wonder what there is in religion which for the sake of it, can induce men to forego all that they call enjoyment”.

Our confidence is in God alone who holds all power over sin and promises eternal life and protection to those who trust in Him. Let’s press forward in our purpose to be prepared at all times to live for God’s glory.

Category: 1Peter4

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