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But rather all of you continue to rejoice because of sharing in the sufferings of the Christ,1 [Isaiah 53:3-5; Mark 9:31] so that you might also rejoice in exultation at the revelation of his glory.2
| 1 | Continue to rejoice because of sharing in the sufferings of the Christ: Peter may allude to Isaiah 53:3-5 or Mark 9:31. See notes on 1 Peter 2:21 and 1 Peter 4:1. Peter knows whereof he speaks. [Acts 5:42] |
| 2 | You might also rejoice in exultation at the revelation of his glory: Or, KJV: when his glory shall be revealed; TCN: when the time comes for the manifestation of his glory. There will be two reactions and outcomes to the revelation of Christ and the parousia-judgment to follow. Compare Daniel 12:2, John 5:29, 2 Corinthians 5:10, 1 John 2:28. Peter has already mentioned this “revelation.” [1 Peter 1:7, 13] |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose 1 Peter 4:13 as the theme verse of chapter four – Shared Sufferings. Continuing with the previous theme on suffering Peter writes that Christians should have the inclination to suffer like Christ. [1-6] The person who is suffering will have no time for sin and so will no longer live in fleshly desire. Non-Jewish Christians had plenty of time in the past to follow “deeds of shameful conduct.” However, because Christians have stopped this kind of conduct their former associates think Christians strange and so slander them. Those non-Jews who follow the licentious course will have to “give an account” to the judge of the living and the dead. Those spiritual dead non-Jews heard the Gospel and so may be condemned.
Peter offers some entreaties as the end of Jerusalem approaches. [7-11] Christians should be sound in mind, consistently prayerful, loving and charitable, and hospitable. Each Christian must use of their individual “spiritual gift” in serving others. They should not think it strange they experience test of ‘the burning fire’. Rejoice and continue to share in Christ’s sufferings, then they will be able to triumph when his glory is revealed. Blessed with divine favor are those reproached for Christ’s name.
Peter writes about Christian suffering. [15-19] No Christian should suffer as a murderer, thief, as a hurtful person, or even as a busybody. None should feel ashamed if they suffer as a “Christian.” God’s judgment will begin at His House, so the outcome for those who disobey the Gospel is not good. Peter quotes Proverbs 11:31.
Abba our Father bless those who use their spiritual gifts.
[2 September 2002]
