“They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead” (1 Peter 4:5).
The Apostle Peter acknowledged the fact that others may disparage those who seek to live God-honoring lives. However, he was quick to assure his readers that such individuals will be held to account as well.
This portion of Scripture reminds us that human beings will answer to God for their conduct in life. For instance, some may feel as if they can dishonor God with impunity under the mistaken assumption that He is indifferent to their choices. Then there are those who seem to believe they can ignore this portion of Scripture and adopt an attitude of disrespect towards God without repercussion.
While some may seemingly evade responsibility for their misconduct, no one escapes those consequences forever. As we’re reminded in Romans 2:6, God “…will give to each person according to what he has done” (Mounce). God’s justice will inevitably catch up with us- it’s only a matter of when. The Gospel of John echoes this theme as well…
“This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God” (John 3:19-21 NIV).
While Jesus is the light of the world, there are some who prefer to stay in the dark. Those who embrace a God-honoring lifestyle will inevitably shed light upon others who find comfort in the shadows. But as Jesus Himself warned us, “There is nothing hidden that will not be revealed. There is nothing kept secret that will not come to light” (Mark 4:22 GW).
Although some may be sophisticated in disguising their actions or motives, nothing is hidden from God. Therefore, we would do well to contemplate the sobering message given to us in the Biblical book of Hebrews: “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:13 NIV).
In light of these things, the New Testament book of 1 Corinthians offers the following counsel…
“…do not judge anything before the time. Wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the motives of hearts. Then each will receive recognition from God” (1 Corinthians 4:5 NET).