1 Peter 4:7–13 7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 9Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
- The end of all things is at hand. It is to be noted that end of Jerusalem as they knew it was not far off, however Peter clearly is talking about the end of all things, which truly draweth near.
- Watch unto prayer. Compare 1 Thess. 5:6, 8, and Matt. 24:42.
- Love covereth a multitude of sins. Compare Prov. 10:12; 1 Cor. 13:7. Love is a mantle which seeks to condone sin rather than exaggerate it.
- Using hospitality. A duty very needful in that age of persecution when Christians were so often driven from home.
- Even as each hath received a gift. All these are to be freely used for others. Spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12:4, 28) are primarily meant, but the principle is of general application.
- As good stewards. Those to whom God has given gifts must use them, not as their own, but as God’s.
- If any man speaketh. Through a gift of the Spirit. He must speak not his own words, but speak as though they were God’s oracles, speakers of a divine message.
- Ministereth. Let him act as one of God’s ministers and act in his strength.
- That God may be glorified. Since all is of God.
- The fiery trials. Persecution.
- As though a strange thing. Christians, with the world against them, must expect to endure such things.
- Rejoice. Because thus you are made partakers of Christ’s sufferings.
- At the revelation of his glory. All who suffer with him will be glorified.