1 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;
2 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.
3 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:
4 Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with [them] to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of [you]:
5 Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.
6 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.
7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
10 As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 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.
12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13 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.
14 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.
15 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.
16 Yet if [any man suffer] as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
17 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?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 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.
Overview of 1 Peter Chapter 4
1 Peter Chapter 4 addresses the theme of suffering for Christ, the call to live a holy life, and the importance of community and service within the church. The chapter encourages believers to endure suffering with the mindset of Christ and to use their gifts to serve one another.
The Mindset of Suffering (Verses 1-6)
The chapter opens with an exhortation to adopt the same attitude as Christ, who suffered in the flesh. This section emphasizes several key points:
- Sharing in Christ’s Suffering: Believers are encouraged to arm themselves with the same mindset that led Christ to suffer, suggesting that suffering can lead to spiritual growth and transformation.
- Living for God: The text contrasts living for human desires with living for God’s will, urging believers to abandon their past sinful behaviors.
- Judgment and Accountability: It highlights that all will face judgment, emphasizing the seriousness of living according to God’s standards.
Living According to God’s Will (Verses 7-11)
This section shifts focus to the importance of living in light of the end times and the imminent return of Christ. Key themes include:
- Prayer: Believers are called to be sober-minded and watchful in prayer, recognizing the urgency of the times.
- Love and Hospitality: The text encourages fervent love among believers and the practice of hospitality, reflecting the communal aspect of Christian life.
- Using Spiritual Gifts: Each believer is reminded to use their God-given gifts to serve others, ensuring that all actions bring glory to God.
Enduring Suffering for Christ (Verses 12-19)
The chapter concludes with a powerful reminder about the nature of suffering for believers:
- Rejoicing in Suffering: Believers are encouraged not to be surprised by fiery trials, but to rejoice, as suffering can lead to sharing in Christ’s glory.
- Shame and Glory: Suffering for being a Christian is framed as a source of honor, while suffering for wrongdoing is seen as shameful.
- Trusting God: The chapter emphasizes entrusting oneself to God while suffering, reinforcing the belief that God is faithful and just.
Theological Implications
1 Peter 4 presents several theological implications for believers:
- The Nature of Suffering: Suffering is an integral part of the Christian experience, shaping character and faith.
- Community and Service: The call to serve one another highlights the importance of community within the body of Christ.
- Hope in Christ’s Return: The anticipation of Christ’s return serves as motivation for holy living and perseverance in trials.
Practical Applications
Believers can draw several practical applications from this chapter:
- Embrace Suffering: View suffering as an opportunity for growth and deeper fellowship with Christ.
- Engage in Community: Actively participate in the life of the church, using gifts to serve others.
- Live with Intentionality: Be mindful of choices and actions, aligning them with God’s will and purposes.
