Chapter Study & Analysis
Overview
1 Peter 4 encourages believers to arm themselves with the mind of Christ regarding suffering. It highlights the importance of charity, hospitality, and the use of spiritual gifts, warning that judgment must begin at the house of God.
CONTEMPORARY APPLICATIONS
1. Fervent Charity: "Above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins" (v. 8). Love is the primary bond of the church, especially in times of stress.
2. Stewardship of Gifts: Every man has received a gift and should minister the same as good stewards of the manifold grace of God (v. 10). Our talents are not for our own glory, but for the edification of the body.
3. The Purpose of Fiery Trials: We should not think it strange concerning the "fiery trial" which is to try us (v. 12). Instead, we should rejoice as partakers of Christ’s sufferings, knowing that the Spirit of glory rests upon us.
Practical Lessons
FORMAL PRAYER
O God, the Judge of all: grant that we may live the rest of our time to Thy will, and not to the lusts of men. Use us as stewards of Thy grace, and help us to rejoice in trials, committing the keeping of our souls to Thee in well-doing. Amen.