Bible Text: 1 Peter 4:3-6 | Preacher: Pastor Joe Ricchuiti | Series: 1 Peter, Giving An Account

“Some…present Christianity with the same adjectives as a travel folder for a Caribbean cruise. This chapter makes no such claims! Peter tells us to look at the experience of our Lord Jesus Christ. He reminds us that as Christians we are to follow Him in His sufferings as well as His glory. Although others may be surprised by our new way of life, we are not to be surprised if our experience is patterned after the Lord’s…. those who trust in Jesus Christ will not be disappointed even in suffering we are assured of His faithfulness.” (Authorship unknown)
As believer’s in Jesus Christ we are called to live in a different way in our attitude toward morality, toward possessions, toward other people/relationships. We are not to imitate the non-Christian world around us in these ways. We spent enough time in the past in that kind of lifestyle (Peter characterizes as sexually promiscuous, drunken, and idolatrous.
“It’s easy for us to accommodate ourselves to the society in which we live. Unless we are careful, we end up with the same priorities as everyone else. May our priority system is overdue for a biblical check-up.” (Dr. Earl Radmacher)
A Christian lifestyle of godliness is a condemnation of the values of pagan society. The amazement of unbelievers soon turns to hatred of believers and our values. We are seen by the world as a roadblock to their unrighteous agenda. Peter encourages Christians under persecution with the reminder that unbelievers will have to give an account of themselves to God. They may be in control now, but ultimately will face God’s judgment.
Lessons from 3:18-4:6: Christians must expect opposition (Jesus is the example); Christians must serve God by faith; we can be encouraged because we are identified with Christ’s victory; Jesus is the only savior and the lost world needs to hear His gospel, there is no second chance; water baptism is important, by it we identify with Jesus and show that we have broken with the old life. (Warren Wiersbe). Additionally we must live in the victory over sin that Jesus has provided for us (reckon ourselves dead to sin, alive to righteousness); we must choose the will of God over the desire of the flesh; we must stand for God’s truth whatever the cost; and we must leave final judgment in God’s hands.