1 Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. 3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.
7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
(ESV)
STOP! Think a little 🤔 What is God saying to you?
- What is the writer saying?
- How do I apply this to my life?
Just as Christ suffered in the flesh (1 Pet 3:18) we should arm ourselves with the same way of thinking. Just like preparing for battle, we must adopt the courageous attitude of Jesus with regard to suffering. We must have an unwavering determination to live according to God’s will. We always have the option of avoiding suffering by going along with the will of society. But those who accept suffering have clearly chosen to avoid sin. They have given up their human passions to focus on the will of God. Peter reminds us that living a licentious life is a thing of the past. The lives of unbelievers of Peter’s day are not much different from those lived by many today. When you choose to live God’s way and avoid a sinful lifestyle, unbelievers won’t understand why you won’t join them and they will abuse you. But they will need to give account to God one day for the choices they make. This is why the gospel was preached, that we might live in the spirit rather than in the flesh. Those who responded to the gospel and are now dead have avoided the judgment that awaits those who live in the flesh and are now alive with God. Though unbelievers might judge us for not conforming to their values, God reverses that judgment and gives us life with Him.
Peter reminds us that Christ’s return is imminent and that should motivate us to live for and serve Him. Therefore we should be self-controlled and of a clear mind so we can pray well. Prayer is a key part of enduring suffering and living according to God’s will. Peter uses “above all” to show how important the command to love one another is. If we earnestly love one another, then our love will cover a multitude of sins. When love is our focus, then we don’t ignore sin, but we don’t choose conflict when wronged. We are quick to forgive and dispense grace just as we ourselves have received grace. Our love should be expressed in generous hospitality and serving one another with our spiritual gifts. God has gifted us for service and we must use those gifts as good stewards of God’s grace. Whoever speaks, whether preaching or just helping someone with godly council, we should speak with the seriousness of speaking God’s words. When we serve, we should serve with the strength and ability God provides. We should use every opportunity to be conduits of God’s grace to other believers. In everything, we should live to the glory of Jesus Christ.
Whether to unbelievers or fellow believers, we have an incredible opportunity to be expressions of God’s grace to those around us. How can you show God-level love to someone today?
Major Stories of the Bible Reading Plan
Judgement at the Lord’s Coming: Malachi 3