1 Peter 4

We are recipients of all the benefits of the sufferings of Jesus our Lord. In particular, the church has become a partaker in His death and resurrection. This is not only the ground of our heavenly hope, it has also become for us a pattern for our life in this world. We die daily, yet we live. We die to self and sin, and we live to righteousness.

But think of the life of faith for a moment from the perspective of the one who does not believe. To lose a friend or a relative to faith in Christ can be an amazingly jarring experience. Someone who used to think and act one way, is suddenly not doing some things he used to do, and is dedicating himself to activities that he used to ignore or laugh at. It is very reasonable for people to say, or at least wonder, “What in the world happened to you?”

We in the church don't have time, or maybe even the inclination, to keep up with all the old amusements, some of which we now may look on as outright sin, or too close to sin to be anything but foolish for us. We want to love the people that God has placed in our lives, and we should, but they may be wondering why we don't care to participate in what they think is fun. Are we saying that they are bad people? The point is unmistakeable, and they get it, no matter how much we say something about our own sin and what Jesus has done for us. But what are we supposed to do? We didn't exactly want this conversation, but then we can't run away from it that easily when it happens. And there is no way that we're participating in orgies just so other people feel more comfortable with who we are. We have been granted life from the dead. Our hope is that many who are currently dead in their trespasses and sins will find new life in Christ through the preaching of the Word.

No one should think that the Lord's judgment of the earth is so far away. For us, the time for loose living is now over. The life of faith working itself out through love is right in front of us. Reach for it every day in Christ, and know the real freedom that comes from the joy of the Lord.

The Lord is not calling us to a life of monkish detachment from all that is enjoyable. No, we should enjoy the good gifts that God gives to all men, and cultivate a love for people. We can bring them food, we can invite them into our homes, we can give them secret gifts. The opportunities abound for these good works, and we can enjoy the experience all the more when we consider that this is what Jesus wants His church to do, especially in serving and loving one another. Do you know yourself well enough to know what you are good at? Then use your gift to bless others without expecting anything in return. Some teach well, some lead others in service, some come alongside people in need with great resources of sympathy, some have the strength to move heavy things... If you have it, use it. Needs abound. Be the answer to someone's prayers, and in all that you do, give God the glory through Jesus Christ.

All of this sounds simple, but it can become hard fast, because people are difficult, and so are we. Are you surprised when you face some fiery trial? Who can understand the mysteries of the Lord's providence? But don't be astonished when you find yourself in the midst of very serious disappointments and difficulties. This is not some strange occurrence that needs to distract you from a life of sincere devotion to the Lord.

Think of the way that our Savior approached the trial of the cross. He did ask God if there was any other way, yet even as He asked, He submitted Himself body and soul to the will of His heavenly Father. You can ask the Lord for ease, prosperity, health, family blessings, and relief from all kinds of difficulties. There is no sin in asking, but are you settled on the truth that whatever God wants is the best? Have you yielded yourself to the will of God? If you have, then you can find happiness in a time of severely disappointing providences. We share in the sufferings of Jesus, and we will share in the joy of His glory.

Even now, the heavenly Spirit of the glory and power of God rests upon you. You can take a lot of abuse if you can remember what you have been given. Don't use all this grace you have been given as a pretext for license. Christ did not die so that you can explore just how bad you can be and still be bound for heaven. That's a great story, but too many people are telling it. You live out the story of how Jesus saves in the battle we have today to reject the flesh and to enjoy a life of love.

Does it have to be said? Don't be a murderer, a thief, or an annoying and self-justifying busybody. If you have to suffer as a result of that kind of evil living, what can anyone say about it? But if you suffer patiently just for believing in Christ and quietly doing good, this is commendable to the Lord, and He knows what good really is.

Judgment begins with the household of God. The Lord is disciplining us. Why should we ignore Him? We know that a life of faithful kindness is the indisputable pattern that Jesus has for us. Any questions?

O the judgment that is coming upon those who do not obey the gospel of God. Who can stand it? Christ is our strong shield, and sometimes we feel that we are just barely saved. What will become of those who have no time for Jesus? It's too sad to think about. Lord, have mercy. Yes, have mercy on us too. So if we suffer for a little while according to God's will, let's entrust our bodies and souls to our faithful Creator while doing good. May the Lord be our help.