In verses 1-6 of chapter 4 Peter tells the Christians to “arm themselves” mentally for suffering. He is convinced that this attitude will lead Christians to not only be able to deal with suffering, but also overcome sin. He then reminds them of their old way of life that they should be avoiding. This avoidance leads to suffering, but again Peter comforts them by reminding them that the judgment of men does not matter. They might be judged in the flesh, but they will be judged by God alive (read more here).
Peter continues to deal with conduct in verses 7-11. There he list a series of actions Christians should take.
Foundation for Proper Actions
The foundation of these requests is that the “end of all things is near.” This refers to the end of the age. Jesus ushered in the last age and therefore the end of all things is always at hand. We never know when this world will come to an end. Peter believes that this foundation should lead us to specific actions.
Be Sober
The first action is that we will be sober and prayer. The word sober carries the idea of viewing things from a complete perspective. For the Christian it means viewing our lives in light of what we know the future holds. The future holds a day of judgment and so we should live with that thought in mind. This is how we develop the mindset of pilgrims in this world. While being sober we also are diligent in our prayers to God.
Love one another
The second action is to have love toward one another. In a time of persecution sacrificial love was highly needed. Particularly love is needed because love covers a multitude of sin. Without love Christians would not be willing to forgive one another and live harmoniously within the church.
Be Hospitable
The third action is to show hospitality without complaining. Hospitality at its core is giving to others with no expectation of return. That could be a place to stay, food to eat, clothes to wear, or a host of other things, but the point is that your motivation is not to receive anything in return. This is why Peter adds the phrase “without complaining.” It would be natural when we do for others and receive nothing to complain. Peter says we should not worry about that situation.
Use Your Talents
The fourth action is to use the talents God has given us. Peter lists two broad gifts that we might have. The first is gifts with regards to serving. The other is gifts with regards to proclaiming God’s message. As gift holders we are to be stewards that use those gifts in a way that brings glory to God through Jesus Christ. Our gifts that God gives us are given to us for the purpose of glorifying Him. The way we are good stewards is by maximizing God’s glory with our gifts!
Peter describes how this is done. If you have the gift of serving then do it to your full potential. If you have the gift of preaching then preach nothing but the message of God. In doing that you will bring much glory to God!
Conclusion
Knowing that the end is at hand should lead us to certain actions. These actions strengthen the church and glorify God.
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