but rejoice to the extent that you share Christ's sufferings, so that you may rejoice at the revelation of His glory, exulting. Truth to Learn We should be happy when we suffer as followers of Christ. Behind the Words “Rejoice” is from chairō, meaning “to have joy” or “to...
1 Peter 4:12 – Christian Suffering, Not Unusual
Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing were happening to you; Truth to Learn Christians have suffered for their faith throughout history. Therefore, don’t think it strange if it happens to you. Behind the Words The...
1 Peter 4:11 – Speaking and Ministering
If anyone speaks, let it be as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. Truth to...
1 Peter 4:10 – Ministering Gifts
each one as has received a gift, ministering it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Truth to Learn God has given every Christian gifts. These are to be shared with the rest of the church, liberally and humbly. Behind the Words The expression...
1 Peter 4:9 – Christian Hospitality
Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. Truth to Learn We should be hospitable to other Christians simply because we love them. Behind the Words The word translated “hospitable” is the Greek word philoxenos, which is made up of philos, meaning “fondness” or “kindness” and xenos, meaning “a stranger.”...
1 Peter 4:8 – Demonstrate Fervent Love
Above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins. Truth to Learn Love means forgetting your own pain in order to help a brother or sister grow in grace. Behind the Words The expression “above all things” is translated from the...
1 Peter 4:7 – End-Time Actions
But the end of all things is near; therefore be clear minded and self-controlled unto prayers. Truth to Learn The end is very near, so be serious about what you do and how you pray. Behind the Words The word translated “end” is telos, which is derived from the...
1 Peter 4:6 – Dead, But Alive
For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. Truth to Learn The ultimate price to pay for our faith (giving of our life) may be what...
1 Peter 4:5 – Divine Vengeance
They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. Truth to Learn When we are slandered by others for doing what God wants, we need to remember that He will judge them some day. Behind the Words The words “will give”...
1 Peter 4:4 – Unfriendly Recognition
regarding which, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same excess of unsavedness, speaking evil of you. Truth to Learn Leaving old habits behind comes at a cost. Behind the Words The word translated “they think it strange” is the Greek word xenidzō,...