Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;
That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.
For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:
Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:
Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.
For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
I Peter 4 offers practical guidance for Christians navigating a world that often opposes their faith. Peter emphasizes the importance of aligning our lives with Christ's example, particularly in our attitude toward suffering, and living intentionally in light of eternity. This chapter challenges us to embrace our identity as God's people, set apart for His purposes, and to live lives of love, service, and faithfulness, even amidst hardship. The key words for I Peter 4 are suffering, love, service, and judgement.
Suffering with Christ (I Peter 4:1-6)
Peter begins by urging believers to adopt Christ's mindset toward suffering. He writes, "Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin" (I Peter 4:1). This doesn't mean that suffering automatically eliminates sin from our lives. Rather, it suggests that a willingness to endure hardship for Christ's sake demonstrates a commitment to God's will above personal desires.
The apostle calls us to live "for the will of God rather than for human desires" (I Peter 4:2). Peter highlights the contrast between a life devoted to God and one consumed by worldly pleasures. He lists the kinds of ungodly behavior that unrestrained humanity desires (I Peter 4:3). Those who continue to indulge in such activities will be perplexed and even hostile toward Christians who choose a different path. "They are surprised that you do not join them in their wild living, and they heap abuse on you" (I Peter 4:4). Rejection and slander should not surprise us.
Peter reminds us that those who reject God will ultimately face judgment. "But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead" (I Peter 4:5). This sobering truth underscores the importance of living righteously and sharing the gospel with others.
Verse 6 speaks of the gospel being preached to those who are now dead. "For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit" (I Peter 4:6). There are varying interpretations of this verse, with some suggesting it refers to Christ's proclamation to spirits in prison after his death (as mentioned in I Peter 3:19). Tony Evans suggests that between Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, he preached to people who had died, proclaiming his salvation to Old Testament believers in preparation for his leading them to paradise (see Ephesians 4:8-10). Regardless of the specific interpretation, the verse emphasizes the universal reach of the gospel and the hope of eternal life for those who believe.
Living Intentionally in Light of Eternity (I Peter 4:7-11)
Recognizing the urgency of the times, Peter urges believers to live with intentionality and purpose. "The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray" (I Peter 4:7). With eternity in view, we should prioritize prayer and cultivate a clear, focused mind. Prayer replaces self-focus with a God-focus. It reminds us who we are and—more importantly—who we are not.
Love should be a defining characteristic of Christian community. "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins" (I Peter 4:8). Biblical love is not defined by our feelings but by sacrificing for the good of others. Peter encourages hospitality as a practical expression of love. "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" (I Peter 4:9). Biblical hospitality is an authentic welcoming and serving, especially toward those who can do nothing in return. Jesus reminds us that what we do for “the least of these” we do for him (Matthew 25:40).
Furthermore, Peter emphasizes the importance of using our gifts to serve one another. "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms" (I Peter 4:10). The church is intended to be full service with each member providing for the well-being of others. We are stewards of God’s grace (I Peter 4:10). We manage something precious that we received but don’t own. Whether we speak or serve, it should be done with God's words and the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything (I Peter 4:11).
Rejoicing in Suffering for Christ (I Peter 4:12-19)
Peter returns to the theme of suffering, reminding believers that trials are not unexpected but rather a normal part of the Christian life. "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you" (I Peter 4:12).
Instead of being dismayed, we should rejoice in our participation in Christ's sufferings. "But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed" (I Peter 4:13). There is no virtue in suffering as a murderer or thief (I Peter 4:15), but if we suffer as a Christian we are blessed (I Peter 4:14, 16). Suffering for Christ is an honor and a privilege, a sign that we are truly His followers. "If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you" (I Peter 4:14).
Peter also addresses the difficult reality that God may use suffering to discipline His children. "For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?" (I Peter 4:17). This is not a punishment for the believer's sin, which has been fully paid for through the death of Christ on the cross. Rather, this is in order to draw us closer to Him and away from all the destructive things in the world that might draw us in. God's fatherly discipline is painful, how much worse will his judgment be on the ungodly (I Peter 4:17-18)?
The chapter concludes with a call to entrust ourselves to God's care, even in the midst of suffering. "So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good" (I Peter 4:19). Peter encourages believers to entrust our lives to our faithful Creator even as we entrust our eternal souls to him (I Peter 4:19). How should Christians respond to suffering? Entrust our souls to God, and do good works.
I Peter 4 challenges us to embrace a Christ-centered life, characterized by love, service, and faithfulness, even in the face of suffering. By aligning our lives with God's will and entrusting ourselves to His care, we can experience joy and fulfillment, knowing that our present sufferings are temporary and will ultimately lead to eternal glory.
Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;
That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.
For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:
Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:
Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.
For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
I Peter 4 offers practical guidance for Christians navigating a world that often opposes their faith. Peter emphasizes the importance of aligning our lives with Christ's example, particularly in our attitude toward suffering, and living intentionally in light of eternity. This chapter challenges us to embrace our identity as God's people, set apart for His purposes, and to live lives of love, service, and faithfulness, even amidst hardship. The key words for I Peter 4 are suffering, love, service, and judgement.
Suffering with Christ (I Peter 4:1-6)
Peter begins by urging believers to adopt Christ's mindset toward suffering. He writes, "Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin" (I Peter 4:1). This doesn't mean that suffering automatically eliminates sin from our lives. Rather, it suggests that a willingness to endure hardship for Christ's sake demonstrates a commitment to God's will above personal desires.
The apostle calls us to live "for the will of God rather than for human desires" (I Peter 4:2). Peter highlights the contrast between a life devoted to God and one consumed by worldly pleasures. He lists the kinds of ungodly behavior that unrestrained humanity desires (I Peter 4:3). Those who continue to indulge in such activities will be perplexed and even hostile toward Christians who choose a different path. "They are surprised that you do not join them in their wild living, and they heap abuse on you" (I Peter 4:4). Rejection and slander should not surprise us.
Peter reminds us that those who reject God will ultimately face judgment. "But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead" (I Peter 4:5). This sobering truth underscores the importance of living righteously and sharing the gospel with others.
Verse 6 speaks of the gospel being preached to those who are now dead. "For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit" (I Peter 4:6). There are varying interpretations of this verse, with some suggesting it refers to Christ's proclamation to spirits in prison after his death (as mentioned in I Peter 3:19). Tony Evans suggests that between Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, he preached to people who had died, proclaiming his salvation to Old Testament believers in preparation for his leading them to paradise (see Ephesians 4:8-10). Regardless of the specific interpretation, the verse emphasizes the universal reach of the gospel and the hope of eternal life for those who believe.
Living Intentionally in Light of Eternity (I Peter 4:7-11)
Recognizing the urgency of the times, Peter urges believers to live with intentionality and purpose. "The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray" (I Peter 4:7). With eternity in view, we should prioritize prayer and cultivate a clear, focused mind. Prayer replaces self-focus with a God-focus. It reminds us who we are and—more importantly—who we are not.
Love should be a defining characteristic of Christian community. "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins" (I Peter 4:8). Biblical love is not defined by our feelings but by sacrificing for the good of others. Peter encourages hospitality as a practical expression of love. "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" (I Peter 4:9). Biblical hospitality is an authentic welcoming and serving, especially toward those who can do nothing in return. Jesus reminds us that what we do for “the least of these” we do for him (Matthew 25:40).
Furthermore, Peter emphasizes the importance of using our gifts to serve one another. "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms" (I Peter 4:10). The church is intended to be full service with each member providing for the well-being of others. We are stewards of God’s grace (I Peter 4:10). We manage something precious that we received but don’t own. Whether we speak or serve, it should be done with God's words and the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything (I Peter 4:11).
Rejoicing in Suffering for Christ (I Peter 4:12-19)
Peter returns to the theme of suffering, reminding believers that trials are not unexpected but rather a normal part of the Christian life. "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you" (I Peter 4:12).
Instead of being dismayed, we should rejoice in our participation in Christ's sufferings. "But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed" (I Peter 4:13). There is no virtue in suffering as a murderer or thief (I Peter 4:15), but if we suffer as a Christian we are blessed (I Peter 4:14, 16). Suffering for Christ is an honor and a privilege, a sign that we are truly His followers. "If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you" (I Peter 4:14).
Peter also addresses the difficult reality that God may use suffering to discipline His children. "For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?" (I Peter 4:17). This is not a punishment for the believer's sin, which has been fully paid for through the death of Christ on the cross. Rather, this is in order to draw us closer to Him and away from all the destructive things in the world that might draw us in. God's fatherly discipline is painful, how much worse will his judgment be on the ungodly (I Peter 4:17-18)?
The chapter concludes with a call to entrust ourselves to God's care, even in the midst of suffering. "So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good" (I Peter 4:19). Peter encourages believers to entrust our lives to our faithful Creator even as we entrust our eternal souls to him (I Peter 4:19). How should Christians respond to suffering? Entrust our souls to God, and do good works.
I Peter 4 challenges us to embrace a Christ-centered life, characterized by love, service, and faithfulness, even in the face of suffering. By aligning our lives with God's will and entrusting ourselves to His care, we can experience joy and fulfillment, knowing that our present sufferings are temporary and will ultimately lead to eternal glory.