“Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator” (1 Peter 4:19).
The word “therefore” fulfills its customary role as a call to action here in the final verse of this chapter. In fact, this entire chapter has functioned as a call to action in various forms. Thus, it should not be surprising to note that 1 Peter chapter four opens with the word “therefore” and closes with that same word as well.
So what are the practical applications or key lessons to be learned from this portion of Scripture? Well, a brief survey of 1 Peter chapter four offers several insights…
Verse one: Since Christ suffered for us, we must arm ourselves with that same mind.
Verse two: We should not invest what remains of our lives in the pursuit of various lusts. Instead, we should devote ourselves to fulfilling God’s will.
Verse three: Whatever time we formerly spent in pursuit of an ungodly lifestyle has already been too much.
Verse four: Some may not understand (or respect) our decision to honor God with our lives.
Verse five: Those who reject God will answer to Him for their choices.
Verse six: A person who embraces Christ in faith has transitioned from a state of spiritual death to eternal life. Those who have passed away in Christ are now enjoying everlasting life in the presence of God, even though the world may have spoken evil of them.
Verse seven: Life is short; thus, we should be serious and watchful in our prayers.
Verses eight to nine: Accept others in Christ and refrain from exposing their flaws and imperfections in a way that damages their reputation. Practice hospitality by helping to meet each other’s needs.
Verses ten to eleven: We should make good use of the gifts God has given us.
Verses twelve to fourteen: Be prepared for the possibility of persecution. We should view such things as an opportunity to honor and glorify God.
Verses fifteen to sixteen: We should exercise caution before we automatically associate the trials we face with the experience of sharing in Christ’s sufferings. Sometimes we simply get what we deserve for inappropriate behaviors.
Verses seventeen to eighteen: The mere act of going to church does not insulate us from God’s scrutiny, for “…the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?”
We’ll consider the Apostle Peter’s final action item from this chapter in the last installment of our look at 1 Peter chapter four.