Once again, as we consider the writing of the apostle Peter, we see his focus in this first epistle on the suffering of Christians, and now in the remainder of the fourth chapter, some commands for us to observe in the midst of suffering. While enduring persecution, the faithful child of God needs to cling to the Lord and not draw back; be sure that it is good, not evil that we are suffering for, and remember the impending judgment, when we and all others in this world will give an account of our lives.

SERVE GOD TO THE FULLEST (4:7-11)
In stating that "...the end of all things is at hand...", Peter is not declaring knowledge of the time of the end (Matthew 25:13), but rather that the end could come at any point. He is calling upon the people of God to make preparation for the time of the end (Romans 13:11; Matthew 25:1-13), for nothing impedes the coming judgment, except the longsuffering of God (2 Peter 3:9).

When asked what the greatest commandment was, Jesus said, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind... And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" (Matthew 22:37, 39). Thus, it is no surprise when Peter focuses on commands of God which we must carefully observe, he first of all speaks of the need for love. He tells us, "...love will cover a multitude of sins." (cf. James 5:20; Proverbs 10:12). Love is that which will cause us to forgive one another, it will help us to restore those who are fallen, it is the perfect bond of perfection among the saints.

He continues, "...be hospitable to one another without grumbling." Hospitality is an expression of love. Today, we often view hospitality as simply inviting another into our home for dinner. That certainly is part of it. But in Peter's day, it was not a mere social get together, but Christians were being driven out of their homes in some cases, and needed to rely upon the hospitality of brethren to survive.

"As each one has a gift, minister it to one another..." There is none who can say that they do not have a gift to share. God has bestowed different gifts upon each of us, but whatever they are, we can share them for mutual edification. The parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) addresses the use of our gifts. Never bury what the Lord has given to be used. To do so will make us wicked and lazy servants, fit for destruction. Rather, Peter encourages us, "...if anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies."

SUFFERING AS A CHRISTIAN (4:12-16)
The apostle warns the Christians, "...do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you..." As we have seen in our series of studies, the Christian is going to suffer (2 Timothy 3:12). In Peter's day and the centuries which followed, the Roman leaders were violently opposed to Christianity. They would endure extreme trials at the hand of their oppressors. Friend, you and I should likewise not be surprised if we suffer at the hands of evil doers. Our Lord did, His people in times past did, and we today also will suffer for righteousness' sake.

But, while suffering, do not complain and grumble. Rather, rejoice, as the disciples of old who were "...counted worthy to suffer shame for His name (Acts 5:41). Know that if we suffer for Him, we will be glorified with Him (Matthew 5:12; Romans 8:17). Though those who reproach the child of God blasphemes the name of God, He is glorified by our patient endurance.

"But, let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters." Never should our suffering be for that which is evil. In that, we ourselves malign the name of God and equate ourselves with the enemies of God. If we suffer in evildoing, we ought to be ashamed of ourselves, and come seeking God's forgiveness with penitent heart. But if we suffer as a Christian, there is no shame, but rather God is glorified in us.

THE TIME HAS COME FOR JUDGMENT (4;17-19)
As Peter speaks of the judgment, he tells us that it begins "...at the house of God..." That is, it will begin with those who are Christians. In consideration of the Christian, Peter says he is "...scarcely saved..." You've heard the expression, "by the skin of your teeth"? We are a scarcely saved people. God be thanked for His grace and mercy bestowed upon the saints. But if God's own people are "...scarcely saved, where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?"

What is the conclusion then? "...Let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good..." Realizing that we are "...scarcely saved..." persons, we need to show more and more our great commitment to the service of God. We have been called out of this world to good works (Ephesians 2:8-10), let us be busy in doing such.

Friend, may we serve God to the fullest. Let us realize that suffering will follow those who do the will of God, and thus not grow discouraged, but endure the suffering, knowing that God is glorified in us. May we focus upon the coming judgment, and pattern our lives accordingly, with a resolve to commit our souls to the Lord, for He is faithful.