Bible Study: 1 Peter 4-5
OK Men,
So, you want to be a Christian? Paul confirms that you’re going to suffer, but there is a good reason for it. “However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name,” (4:16). When people mistreat you because of your faith, it’s because they can see the light of Christ emanating from you. That’s glorious for us but also reveals the influence of the evil one on them. Let’s look at how Peter closes out his first letter.
Chapter 4:
What’s New: “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,” (v1-2). The suffering we experience doesn’t only come from the world; it also comes from within! Perhaps internal suffering is the kind we will primarily face in our lives. This is the “deny yourself” part of Jesus’ teaching.
It’s not easy! It’s literally described by God as suffering! But success begins in the mind: “Arm yourselves also with the same attitude.” Christ suffered in his body to conquer every sin. We are to share in his sufferings. When we do this, the Holy Spirit is cultivated and strengthened within us. It’s the only power we have to fight against our natural sinful desires. Sin that’s left unchecked will grow. Christ’s sacrifice made us no longer dead to sin! Today, I encourage you to endure a little bit of suffering, and cultivate that Spirit!
Who is God: There are a couple passages in this short chapter that give us a sobering reminder that God will still judge. Speaking of pagans, Peter writes, “They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give an account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead,” (v4-5). Additionally, “For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (v17).
There is judgment for both those who deny God, as well as his people who are not obedient. Judgment is not a fun topic. Christians don’t really enjoy talking about it, but Peter clearly asks what will happen to God’s people who don’t obey? Reread verse 17 if you need. He’s talking about the Lord’s people. God calls us to be faithful and obedient. He doesn’t call us to control any outcome or to constantly live comfortably. Sometimes obedience is the suffering already previously mentioned. The men of God need to get uncomfortable for Jesus.
Chapter 5:
What’s New: Peter identifies himself as an elder at the time of this writing, “To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings,” (v1). He also has multiple mentees learning from him, Silas, “With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother,” (v12), as well as Mark (this is John Mark, mentioned in the book of Acts and the author of the gospel of Mark), referring to him as a “son” in verse 13 (spiritual son, not literal). Peter has done a lot to help spread the Gospel message of Jesus to the Jews and Gentiles, but he is also personally building up two young men, the same way Christ did for him.
Who is God: Peter could have proudly and arrogantly played the “Apostle” card. He certainly had the wild personality for it. However, Jesus taught him to be a humble servant. “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty right hand, that he may lift you up in due time,” (v5-6). Peter spent time in prison, on the run for his faith, and ultimately wound up being crucified upside down, as he considered himself unworthy to even be killed in the same manner as Jesus. The humility he learned from Christ was evident until the very end, when God gave him his reward in heaven.
OK Men - These are the new things and characteristics of God that I noticed. What have you seen in this book of 1 Peter? Leave a comment!
If you weren’t able to read 1 Peter, try to read it this weekend. It’s only 5 chapters! We’ll begin 2 Peter on Monday!
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