¶ Intro
Welcome to the reading of the First Epistle of Peter , Chapter 4 , with In the Field Audio Bible . My name is Christie , your host for this episode . Welcome to today's scripture , where we reflect on the rich wisdom and strength found in the First Epistle of Peter , Chapter 4 .
In this chapter , the Apostle Peter invites us to adopt the mindset of Christ , living intentionally and embracing a life of purpose . He reminds us that suffering for doing what is right is not meaningless , but a refining process that aligns our hearts with God's will .
Peter calls us to step away from the distractions of sinful desires , encouraging us instead to live in love , humility and service . He emphasizes the importance of community , urging believers to use their unique gifts to uplift and support one another so that , in everything , god may be glorified .
As we face trials and challenges , Peter's words inspire us to rejoice , knowing that these experiences deepen our faith , reveal God's presence in our lives and prepare us for the eternal glory to come . This chapter is both a challenge and an encouragement , reminding us to persevere with hope and to live boldly as followers of Christ .
Join me as we unpack these powerful truths and discover how they apply to our daily walk with God .
¶ 1 Peter 4
The First Epistle of Peter , Chapter 4 . Christ suffered in His body , so prepare yourselves to think in the same way Christ did . Do this because whoever suffers in their body is finished with sin . As a result , they don't live the rest of their earthly life for evil human desires . Instead , they live to do what God wants .
You have spent enough time in the past doing what ungodly people choose to do . You lived a wild life . You longed for evil things . You got drunk . You went to wild parties . You worship statues of gods which the Lord hates . Ungodly people are surprised that you no longer join them in what they do .
They want you to join them in their wild and wasteful living . So they say bad things about you , but they will have to explain their actions to God . He is ready to judge those who are alive and those who are dead . That's why the good news was preached even to people who are now dead . It was preached to them for two reasons .
It was preached so that their bodies might be judged this judgment is made by human standards but the good news was also preached so that their spirits might live . This life comes by means of God's power . The end of all things is near , so be watchful and control yourselves . Then you may pray most of all , love one another deeply .
Love erases many sins by forgiving them . Welcome others into your homes without complaining . God's gifts of grace come in many forms . Each of you have received a gift in order to serve others . You should use it faithfully . If anyone speaks , they should do it as one speaking God's words . If anyone serves , they should do it with the strength God provides .
Then , in all things , god will be praised through Jesus Christ . Glory and power belong to Him forever and ever . Amen . Dear friends , don't be surprised by the terrible things happening to you . The trouble you are having has come to test you . So don't feel as if something strange were happening to you .
So don't feel as if something strange were happening to you . Instead , be joyful that you are taking part in Christ's sufferings . Then you will have even more joy when Christ returns in glory . Suppose people say bad things about you because you believe in Christ , then you are blessed because God's Spirit rests on you . He is the Spirit of glory .
If you suffer , it shouldn't be because you are a murderer . It shouldn't be because you are a thief or someone who does evil things . It shouldn't be because you interfere with other people's business . It shouldn't be because you interfere with other people's business , but suppose you suffer for being a Christian . Then don't be ashamed .
Instead , praise God , because you are known by the name of Christ . It is time for judgment to begin with the household of God and since it begins with us . What will happen to people who don't obey God's good news ? Scripture says suppose it is hard for godly people to be saved . Then what will happen to ungodly people and sinners ?
Here is what people who suffer because of God's plan should do they should commit themselves to their faithful creator and they should continue to do good .