1 Peter Chapter 4       (ESV)

 

Stewards of God’s Grace

¹ Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, ² so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. ³ For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry.⁴ With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; ⁵ but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. ⁶ For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.

⁷ The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. ⁸ Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. ⁹ Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.¹⁰ As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: ¹¹ whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

 

Reflection

1. Peter described the Roman world of his day as a society filled with violence, oppression, cruelty, the abuse of power, and sexual insanity (v3). Christians faced tremendous pressure from all sides. Living under such situations, how, for example, is it possible for Christians to maintain sexual purity in such a sexually overheated society? Peter encouraged them to live “no longer for human passions butfor the will of God” (v2).
2. The more hostile the world is to us, the greater our need for support and encouragement. The antagonism of outsiders has the effect of bringing us closer and closer to others who think and feel as we do. Christian community is a close, warm and supportive fellowship where we can find encouragement and strength to get on with life in the grim outside world.
3. If you are missing the warmth of fellowship with other Christians, you lack something essential to your growth and well-being. If you are not a part of a cell group in the church, speak to the pastor, your SS teacher or members of the church.

 

Prayer & Journaling:

Stay with God for a little longer. Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell me. Then write down any thought and/or prayer in the “Spiritual Journal” book.