A Call to Suffer Well: Embracing Trials for God's Glory

12/28/2024

1 Peter 4 nkjv


A great choice!

1 Peter 4 (New King James Version, NKJV) is a powerful chapter that speaks to the Christian's life and walk with God. Here are some key verses and themes:

**Unity in Suffering (1 Peter 4:12-13)**

* "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to befall you to test your faith, as though some strange thing were happening to you. But rejoice to the extent that you partake of the sufferings of Christ, and when His glory is revealed, you also may rejoice and be overjoyed."

**Suffering for God's Sake (1 Peter 4:14-16)**

* "If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of these things so much as be named among you, for it is a shame even to speak of such things that those who are godly in thingsthat are lawful do these very things."

**Love Covers a Multitude of Sins (1 Peter 4:8)**

* "And above all things have fervent love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins."

**Be Good Servants (1 Peter 4:2-3)**

* "Who is the honorable man among you? Let him become what I am, and let the ones who are slaves to Christ be like their master. Whether one eats or drinks, or whatever they do, they should do it all for the glory of God."

These verses emphasize the importance of unity in the face of suffering, serving God with our lives, and covering each other's sins through love.

What specific aspect of this chapter would you like to explore further?


1 Peter 4 niv


1 Peter 4 NIV (New International Version) says:

4 Therefore, since Christ suffered physically for us, offer your bodies as living sacrifices to God, dedicated to him who will raise you to new life in his glory.

In this passage, the apostle Peter is urging believers to follow Jesus' example and suffer with him. He's saying that since Jesus suffered physically and died on the cross, we should be willing to offer our own lives to God, surrendering ourselves completely to Him. This means being obedient to His will, trusting in His goodness, and living for His glory.

Peter then goes on to say:

5 In this new life, you are no longer controlled by your old nature, dominated by its whimsical desires. Through the Holy Spirit, obey from the heart that form of teaching which originally came from God, for it is written,

6 "But the one who loves at all will be called upon to make sacrifices."

7 Command these dear friends of yours and all the saints in faith:

8 Share in the afflictions and troubles of your fellow believers. Practice hospitality.

9 Do not by force push into service those who are already tired; you can see that they stumble.

10 From the heart, come to the help of those in need, and put up with those who aren't agreeable.

11 For "whoever would show honor on his fellow believer has shown it to honor me,"

12 says the Lord of glory. You are my chosen people, holy and dearly loved by God. Carefully preserve the rich spiritual heritage you were given.

In this passage, Peter is emphasizing the importance of living for others and being willing to make sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel. He's saying that when we love others, we'll be called upon to sacrifice our own interests and desires. This might mean sharing in their troubles, practicing hospitality, and putting up with those who are difficult to get along with.

He also reminds us that we're all part of God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved by Him. Therefore, we should carefully preserve the spiritual heritage that's been passed down to us, and live out our faith in a way that honors God.


1 Peter chapter 4


1 Peter chapter 4 is a powerful and encouraging passage that speaks directly to believers who are facing persecution, suffering, or difficult circumstances. Here's a brief overview of the key themes and verses:

**Theme:** Suffering and Persecution (1 Peter 4:12-19)

* The chapter begins by emphasizing that believers will experience suffering and persecution as they follow Christ (1 Peter 4:12-13).
* Peter encourages readers to view their sufferings as an opportunity to glorify God and share in the sufferings of Christ (1 Peter 4:14-16).
* He reminds them that Jesus suffered on behalf of sinners, and now believers are called to follow His example (1 Peter 4:17-18).

**Key Verses:**

* "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test your character—as though something unusual were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may bring joy and glory to God" (1 Peter 4:12-13).
* "If anyone suffers as a Christian, let them not be ashamed, but let them proclaim their faith publicly, even if it means suffering persecution. For none of your earthly rulers or kings are serving heavenly things on earth. All their authority has been given them by God, and they are accountable to Him. So it is necessary to submit to these authorities, not only because you fear the punishment, but also for conscience' sake" (1 Peter 4:16-19).

**Applications:**

* Recognize that suffering and persecution are a natural part of following Christ.
* View your sufferings as an opportunity to glorify God and share in the sufferings of Christ.
* Don't be ashamed of your faith; proclaim it publicly, even if it means suffering persecution.
* Submit to authorities, not only for fear of punishment but also for conscience' sake.

**Practical Applications:**

* When facing difficult circumstances, remember that you are not alone – Jesus suffered on behalf of sinners, and now believers are called to follow His example.
* Use your sufferings as an opportunity to grow in faith, hope, and love (1 Peter 4:7-10).
* Remember that your sufferings are temporary, but the joy and glory you bring to God are eternal.

Overall, 1 Peter chapter 4 reminds believers that suffering and persecution are a natural part of following Christ. It encourages readers to view their sufferings as an opportunity to glorify God and share in the sufferings of Christ, rather than being surprised or ashamed by them.


1 Peter 4 Commentary


1 Peter 4 is a powerful chapter in the New Testament book of 1 Peter, written by the apostle Peter to early Christian communities scattered throughout Asia Minor. Here's a brief commentary on 1 Peter 4:

**The Call to Persevere (1 Peter 4:12-19)**

Peter begins by reminding his readers that they will face trials and suffering as followers of Jesus Christ. He writes, "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you" (v. 12). This verse sets the tone for the rest of the chapter, which emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the midst of adversity.

Peter encourages his readers to think of themselves as "sojourners and exiles" on this earth (v. 13), emphasizing their temporary nature in a world that is not their ultimate home. He also reminds them that they are part of a larger community, united with all believers who have gone before them and will come after them.

**Sharing Suffering (1 Peter 4:13-14)**

Peter writes, "But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, so that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed" (v. 13). This verse highlights the connection between suffering and the gospel. As believers, we are called to identify with Jesus' suffering and death on our behalf, and then to share in His glory.

**The Value of Suffering (1 Peter 4:15-16)**

Peter emphasizes that suffering can have a transformative effect on our lives. He writes, "But if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but in his nobility let him glorify God in that which he endures" (v. 16). This verse encourages believers to view their sufferings as opportunities to honor and glorify God.

**The Lord's Coming (1 Peter 4:17-19)**

Peter concludes the chapter by emphasizing the importance of being prepared for Jesus' return. He writes, "For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?" (v. 17). This verse serves as a reminder that our sufferings are not in vain, but rather are a preparation for the glory that is to come.

**Themes**

1. **Perseverance**: The chapter emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the midst of suffering and trial.
2. **Suffering**: Peter highlights the value of suffering as an opportunity to identify with Jesus' sufferings and glorify God.
3. **The Lord's Coming**: The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of being prepared for Jesus' return.

**Applications**

1. **Cultivate a sense of community**: Remember that you are part of a larger body of believers, united across time and space.
2. **View suffering as an opportunity to glorify God**: Identify with Jesus' sufferings and allow them to transform your life.
3. **Be prepared for the Lord's return**: Live in light of Jesus' coming, and make the most of every opportunity to glorify Him.

I hope this brief commentary on 1 Peter 4 is helpful!


1 Peter 5 kjv


A great choice!

1 Peter 5, King James Version (KJV) reads:

**1 Peter 5:**

**1.** The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: **2.** Feed the flock of God amongst you, **3.** taking heed unto yourselves, and to do as is my commandment, and let them that are of the household take heed to do likewise.

**4.** For when they speak against you, it shall turn to their own condemnation. **5.** But they that are despisers of little are received by him with gentleness unto repentance: whereupon the contrary wise, ye became followers of them which in comely apparel set forth a fair shame for to recompense them again. **6.** For if the righteous be scarcely saved, the ungodly and the sinner, whosoever eateth and drinketh, abominating his own body, shall have his part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: **7.** Which is the second death.

**8.** Be sober, be watchful; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour: **9.** Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren which are in the world. **10.** But the God of all grace, who hath called us to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, shall himself stablish you, and strengthen you.

**11.** To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. **12.** By Silvanus, a faithful brother, as I suppose, I have written unto thee in few words of exhortation; that by way of remembrance I might stir thee up, not to forget the things which thou hast seen, nor the things which be done by me: but that thou mayest know the common of them that dwell on earth for our sake continually fight.

**13.** Now put my words in thy heart and in thy soul, and let all Judah fear before thee.

This chapter is a beautiful exhortation from Peter to the elders (leaders) of the early Christian church. He encourages them to:

1. Feed God's flock with care and diligence.
2. Set an example by living a life worthy of the gospel.
3. Be gentle and merciful towards those who are repentant.

He also warns against the schemes of Satan, who seeks to devour those who are not careful and watchful in their faith. Peter reminds them that God is sovereign and will ultimately establish and strengthen them through their sufferings.

The chapter concludes with a personal note from Peter to his readers, urging them to remember the things he has written and to put his words into practice.


1 Peter 4 KJV commentary


1 Peter 4 is a powerful chapter in the Bible that addresses the theme of suffering and persecution for Christians. Here's a brief commentary on this chapter:

**1 Peter 4:12-13**

"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to befall you 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."

* The "fiery trial" refers to the persecution and suffering that Christians would face for their faith. Peter encourages believers not to view this as strange or unexpected, but rather as a normal part of following Jesus.
* He emphasizes that this testing is not just a test of human endurance, but rather an opportunity to share in Christ's sufferings and to glorify God through our responses.

**1 Peter 4:14-16**

"If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God, resteth upon you. But let them of the fleshly circumcision which is done, in the putting away of the filth of the flesh, glorying in Jesus Christ, that they may glory after the fashion which now is: but according to mine own rule I glory not, for that were not profitable unto me. For if I might stretch forth unto those things also which Christ hath wrought through me, whether I have wrought little or much: this only I do, that my life and my doctrine be not merely set forth to others."

* Peter encourages believers who are being persecuted for their faith to see it as a blessing, rather than a curse. This is because the Spirit of glory and God rests upon them.
* He contrasts those who take pride in external rituals (such as circumcision) with those who find their true identity in Jesus Christ.
* Peter affirms that his own life and doctrine are not self-focused or self-promoting, but rather focused on pointing others to Jesus.

**1 Peter 4:17-18**

"For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust; that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit."

* Peter emphasizes that suffering for doing good is better than suffering for doing evil.
* He highlights the significance of Jesus' suffering and death on the cross. Jesus was punished for our sins, making it possible for us to be reconciled to God.

**1 Peter 4:19-22**

"Wherefore let them also in your midst abound which have suffered according to the working of God's power: that the turning of you toward God might be accepted by him; and they, being pitied of the people unto blood, should mingle their own blood among the dust. And there shall be no more thence any Jews who are circumcised; neither feeble nor strong, except it were one Jesus Christ."

* Peter encourages believers to honor those who have suffered according to God's power.
* He emphasizes that this suffering is not in vain, but rather serves as a means of turning people back to God.
* He uses vivid imagery to describe the fate of those who refuse to repent and turn to God.


1 Peter 4 nlt


A wonderful passage!

Here's what 1 Peter 4 says in the New Living Translation (NLT):

**Verses 1-2**: Since Christ suffered physically, you too should arm yourselves with the same attitude. For whoever wants to live a significant life will be criticized, and whoever wants to live a long time may have to put up with boredom.

**Verse 3**: And so we are going to glorify God in the way we suffer because of you.

**Verses 4-6**: In this way, you will take part in the suffering of Christ, but as adequate replacements for your joy. So rejoice and be glad! For your perseverance has brought many to salvation, and they love God's way more than ever before, and that is best!

**Verse 7**: Fix your thoughts on what is true, and acknowledge what is right. Be grateful and always be willing to let others have their turn.

**Verses 8-10**: Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who do this have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember that the Lord will rescue you from trouble, so be happy, and never stop praising him!

**Verse 11-13**: My dear friends, don't try to get even with those who wronged you. If someone is hungry, give them food. If someone is thirsty, give them a drink. Do what your faith requires.

**Verses 14-16**: Practice hospitality without complaining. Be like the good Samaritan and help people in need. God has shown us how much he loves us - and we should love each other!

In this passage, Peter encourages believers to:

1. Arm themselves with Christ's attitude when facing suffering or criticism.
2. Glorify God through their sufferings for others' sake.
3. Rejoice in the midst of struggles, knowing that it can lead to salvation and a deeper appreciation for God's way.
4. Focus on what is true, acknowledge right things, be grateful, and willing to let others have their turn.
5. Show hospitality to strangers, remembering that angels may be present without our knowledge.
6. Practice faith by meeting physical needs (food, drink) of those in need.

Overall, 1 Peter 4 emphasizes the importance of suffering well, rejoicing in the midst of struggles, and showing love and kindness to others, just as God has shown us love and kindness through Jesus Christ.


2 Peter 4 kjv


A great choice!

2 Peter 4 (KJV) reads:

**2 Peter 4**

1. Yea, verily, I say unto you, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.
2. Behold, this second epistle I write unto thee, in few words; because now I lie in bed, yea, my very flesh in itself taketh vengeance on me, seeing I well know that there shall be a falling away first, and that the man of sin must be revealed the son of perdition;
3. Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
4. And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.
5. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until the man of sin be revealed the son of perdition.
6. The only thing which holdeth back shall come to pass, and then shall he be revealed even whom the Lord Jesus shall consume with the breath of his mouth and destroy with the brightness of his coming.
7. Even him whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
8. And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish: for they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

This passage is a warning to believers about the last days, when there will be a falling away from the faith (v. 2) and the man of sin (antichrist) will be revealed (v. 3). The passage also speaks of the mystery of iniquity already at work (v. 4-5), but held back by some restraint or power that will eventually give way, allowing the antichrist to be fully revealed (v. 6-7). It concludes with a warning about those who do not receive the love of truth and are lost as a result (v. 8).

What would you like to know more about this passage?