March 13, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Peter Chapter 4
1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;
2 That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.
3 For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:
4 Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:
5 Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.
6 For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
In 1 Peter chapter 4, the Apostle calls on Christians to orient their lives radically toward Christ—both in daily life and in the face of persecution. The text is divided into two main parts: first, it addresses Christian suffering and turning away from a sinful life; then follows the call to remain steadfast and joyful in the midst of trials. The suffering of Christ serves as a model against which believers should measure themselves.
Commentary
1.On the Suffering and Life of Christians (verses 1–11)
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Imitating Christ in Suffering (verse 1):
The text begins with an appeal to arm yourselves with the same attitude Christ had in the flesh. Suffering is understood as an essential element of the Christian life.
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Turning Away from Worldly Lusts (verses 2–3):
The Apostle emphasizes that the earthly life, once marked by sin and excess, must be left behind. Instead of giving in to fleshly desires, the will of God is to guide believers.
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Difference from Unbelievers (verses 4–6):
Christians who distance themselves from worldly ways may seem strange to those who continue living in sinful patterns. The reminder is that ultimately a righteous Judge—God—will judge all, both the living and the dead.
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Appeal for Moderation and Love (verses 7–10):
In view of the approaching end times, Peter calls for sober prayer, mutual hospitality, and selfless service to one another. God’s spiritual grace should be evident in every aspect of life.
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Glorifying God (verse 11):
Every activity, whether preaching or holding an office, should be carried out in such a way that God is praised through Jesus Christ. This underscores the central requirement to always live in the light of God’s grace.
2.On Perseverance in Persecution (verses 12–19)
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Not Surprised by Trials (verses 12–13):
Christians should not consider the intensity of persecution as something strange, but rather rejoice, because suffering is shared with Christ. Persecution is seen as a sign of belonging to the Lord.
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Blessing in Slander (verse 14):
Slander in the name of Christ is considered a blessing, since the Spirit of God’s glory rests on the believer—even though it may be maligned by people.
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Right Attitude in Suffering (verses 15–16):
Suffering must not be confused with criminal or immoral acts. Whoever suffers as a Christian should honor God by being ready to testify to their faith even under adverse circumstances.
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Impending Divine Judgment (verses 17–19):
The chapter closes with the warning that God’s judgment will soon begin—first at the house of God. This serves as a reminder that the steadfastness of believers will ultimately be rewarded and that suffering, in accordance with God’s will, leads to good works.
Summary
1 Peter chapter 4 calls on Christians to align their lives radically with the example of Christ—both by turning away from sinful desires and through active service and the exercise of brotherly love. Christ’s suffering serves as the model against which believers should measure themselves. At the same time, the Apostle exhorts them not to fear trials and persecutions, but to view them as evidence of the Holy Spirit’s presence. In the midst of hostility and challenges, Christians are to be strengthened in their steadfastness, knowing that God, as a righteous Judge, will judge all humanity and that true fulfillment is found in life and in doing good works.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 8—Growing Up Into Christ
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Spiritual growth in Christ is a central theme of the Christian life. Chapter 8 describes this growth using natural imagery such as birth, plants, and light, to illustrate how a believer matures in relationship with Christ. It makes clear that no one can generate spiritual life or bring themselves to salvation by their own efforts—only through Christ is true growth possible. By remaining in Him, we receive strength, joy, and steadfastness in faith. The invitation to complete surrender to Christ and to trust in His guidance lies at the heart of this chapter.
Commentary
1.Spiritual Growth as God’s Work (Introduction)
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The Bible compares spiritual growth to a birth (1 Peter 2:2) and to the growth of a seed (Ephesians 4:15).
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No one can produce life by their own power—just as spiritual life cannot arise without God’s work (John 3:3).
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Growth in Christ is not the result of human effort but of divine influence.
2.The Necessity of Connection with Christ
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Plants grow through light, water, and nourishment—likewise, the believer needs Christ as the “Sun of Righteousness” (Isaiah 60:19).
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Jesus emphasizes: “Remain in me”—without Him, a person cannot bear fruit (John 15:4–5).
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Many attempt to live righteously by their own strength, yet Christ is the only path to holiness.
3.Daily Surrender to God as the Key to Growth
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Daily prayer and complete surrender to God are essential for growth in faith.
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The relationship with Christ must be consistent and alive—He should not only be present at the beginning and end of our lives, but at every moment (Psalm 16:8).
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Our hope does not lie in ourselves but in Christ, who connects our weakness with His strength.
4.The Danger of Self-Centeredness and Distraction by Satan
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Satan constantly tries to divert the believer’s gaze from Christ—whether through worries, fears, or worldly temptations.
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The only security lies in complete dependence on Christ—not in self-reflection or self-doubt (Galatians 2:20).
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True spiritual growth occurs through trust, obedience, and continual connection with Christ.
5.The Examples of the First Disciples and Their Deep Fellowship with Christ
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The disciples grew through daily fellowship with Christ and were changed by the Holy Spirit.
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John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, was transformed by closeness to Christ from an ambitious and fiery man into a symbol of love.
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This deep spiritual fellowship with Christ is still available to every believer today.
6.The Ongoing Presence of Christ in Our Lives
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After His ascension, Jesus remained united with His disciples through the Holy Spirit—He remains in the hearts of believers today in the same way.
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Life in Christ means not only following Him, but fully uniting oneself with Him.
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Christ is the author and finisher of our faith (Ephesians 4:15)—in Him lies our entire hope for growth and perfection.
Summary
Chapter 8 underscores the importance of spiritual growth in Christ. It shows that this growth is not achieved through human effort but solely through connection with Christ. Just as plants need light, water, and nourishment to thrive, the believer needs Christ as the source of life. Walking daily with Christ, engaging in consistent prayer, and surrendering fully to Him lead to spiritual maturity. The disciples of Jesus are an example of how close fellowship with Christ can completely transform a person’s nature. The invitation is: “Remain in me”—whoever remains in Christ grows in faith, bears fruit, and is transformed into His image.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/13-03-2025-1-peter-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/
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