1 PETER 4

DO NOT BE ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL 

Peter teaches followers of Jesus to see their bodies as vehicles for carrying out God’s will. They are no longer to live like non-believers and should remove themselves from drunkenness, sexual immorality, and idol worship. Peter instructs the believers to be ready to share their reasoning when they are asked why they do not participate in unrighteous behavior. Instead of compromising their values, they are to continually share the gospel.

Peter desires for believers to be self-controlled and sober-minded, but above all else they are to love one another. Referencing Proverbs 10:12, Peter reminds them that love covers a multitude of sins. In whatever way believers are gifted, they are to steward their talents well and honor God with their strengths.

Returning to the theme of suffering, Peter teaches the believers not to be surprised with the experience of tests and trials. The concept of being blessed when persecuted for righteousness aligns with Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:10-12). Jesus taught believers to be glad and rejoice when they face suffering, because God’s glory will be revealed through them. Whoever is insulted for being a Christian is actually blessed, because they are being persecuted for a righteous cause. Peter advises believers to trust God throughout their suffering and know that He is a faithful Creator.

Peter teaches that no one should be ashamed of the gospel, but instead glorify God. This advice from Peter is both profound and personal. When Jesus was arrested, Peter was asked three times if he was associated with Jesus, and three times Peter was ashamed and denied knowing Jesus (John 18). After the resurrection, Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” allowing Peter to redeem himself and proclaim his faith (John 21).