1 Peter 4:1-11: Living for God

As we continue our study of the book of Peter we now enter into a section in which Christians are called to “arm themselves” with weapons that are “mighty in God”. It is important to note such weapons are spiritual, not physical…

Understanding the fact believers will inevitably be involved in spiritual struggles as we walk in Jesus’ footsteps, it is wise to prepare accordingly. Not with weapons of destruction but with weapons of love, Christians are to equip themselves with the word of God, with His wisdom and more importantly, with the armor of light brought on by Salvation.

1 Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. 2 As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.” (1 Peter 4:1-2)

Christ suffering was real because factually, He was both God and human. Though He unjustly suffered Jesus was ready for the fight against evil, armed with unconditional love, obedience and surrendering.

No one will ever be completely rid of sin until death, the ultimate wage for sin. However Christians who suffer along side Christ are blessed with a rejuvenated position toward sin. As such believers are strengthened and in some cases immune to the things of this world such as greed, lust, addiction, sexual immorality etc.

3 For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4 They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.” (1 Peter 4:3-4)

Non-believers often cannot understand the change into the lives of believers. As their lives continue to follow a destructive path, unbelievers, motivated by selfishness are driven by evil to attack Christians in an attempt to draw them back into darkness.

Even though unbelievers may seem to thrive through a lifestyle contradictory to the word of God and the likeness of Jesus Christ, they will one day find themselves defenseless as they face the undeniable truth, that of God’s almightiness and the fulfillment of His promise.

5 But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.” (1 Peter 4:5-6)

In the verses above, the living are those in Christ. The dead are either those who lived prior to Jesus Christ or those living in darkness without Christ, unbelievers.

Based on the fact Christ’s return is eminent it is wise for believers to ready themselves for the second coming of the Lord. One of the ways we are to prepare involves suffering for Christ. Believers should be willing to suffer since Christ suffered for us as He was tortured and nailed to a cross so that we could live.

7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:7-10)

In tune with the parable of the talents believers are called to make full use of their talents investing in the kingdom of God. Serving the Lord through those around us with all our abilities is at the root or great rewards on earth and in heaven.

As we serve God through others we will be given the opportunity to witness, to minister, to spread the gospel and share the truth about Jesus Christ and God’s promises. Let us carefully choose both the words that flow from our lips and, just as important, the tone we use to convey this most precious information.

11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:11)

Relying on God’s power that dwells within all believers, Christians are commanded to serve God so that He would be praised through Christ. Prayer, worship and the study of God’s word are only a few weapons to be used by believers in the battle against evil.

I invite you to arm yourselves with weapons that are in deed mighty in the Lord so you too can join in the fight against the army of darkness led by Satan, the angel of death. Let’s pray!

Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Peter,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of the apostle Peter.

Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we witness onto those around us
Allow our testimonies to touch others, to lead them to you,
Fill our hearts Lord with your love, your power, with your wisdom, your weapons
Guide us to abide by your word as we endure through the battles against evil
Becoming examples of faith through humble obedience.

God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.

May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.

We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.

Praise God,
Amen!

This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com

Posted in Bible Studies.

Daniel St.Pierre