Two Ways of Living — 1 Peter 4:1–11
November 3, 2024 · Pastor Samuel Sutter
Context: You Belong to God. Throughout this series in 1 Peter, Christians are understood as exiles and refugees living uncomfortably in a temporary home.
I. Christ's Example (vv. 1–2)
"Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God." (1 Peter 4:1–2, NIV)
II. The Transformation of Purpose
Past life — Living for temporary pleasure: "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. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you." (1 Peter 4:3–4, NIV)
Present calling — Living for God's will.
Future accountability — Judgment of the living and dead: "But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit." (1 Peter 4:5–6, NIV)
III. Practical Christian Living
"The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so 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 4:7–11, NIV)
- Be alert and sober-minded for prayer
- Love each other deeply
- Show hospitality without grumbling
- Use spiritual gifts to serve others
- Speak as representing God
- Serve with God's strength
Key Applications
- Live purposefully, knowing this world is temporary
- Use your gifts and opportunities for eternal impact
- Speak and serve as God's representative
- Love and support the Christian community
BBCC Verse of the Week
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms… so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ." (1 Peter 4:10a, 11a, NIV)
Study & Discussion Guide
The suffering of Christ functions as both a model and inspiration for believers. When believers endure suffering for the sake of Christ, they show that their purpose in life is not to live for their own pleasures but according to the will of God and for his glory. (ESV Study Bible)
Peter roots his ethical exhortations in 4:7b–11 in his perception of history and the coming judgment. Thinking that the end of history is at the door can energize prayer, deepen love, and sharpen the use of our gifts. Hospitality formed the foundation of the early Christian movement. Whatever Christians are gifted to do, those gifts are to be exercised in a way that reflects their divine origin and brings God glory. (McKnight)
Discussion Questions
- Why are Christians to turn away from the behaviors and attitudes of their former lives (vv. 1–4)?
- Even if you were outwardly moral before coming to faith, how specifically has Christ rearranged your priorities and values?
- Which of the instructions in 4:7–11 could you put into practice this week, and how?
- How has love helped you deal with other people's sins (v. 8)?
Next week: Read 1 Peter 4:12–19
Pastor Samuel Sutter · [email protected]