From Death Into Life 1 Peter 4:1-11

Pause for thought

Jesus Christ suffered physical pain when he took the judgement for our sin and died in our place at calvary. We are to reckon ourselves to of died when Christ died (suffer with Christ) and to of been raised (given new life) when Christ was raised from the tomb. However as followers of Jesus Christ we will be called upon to suffer (for him) when we resist the former sinful things we followed. This can put us in the line of fire with those who approved of our formal behaviour. As we resist we find that sin loses its power as we focus on Christ and refuse to budge despite the pain 4:1-4

Everyone dies and will have to face one of two judgements The Great White Throne Judgement, or The judgement seat of Christ, the choice is ours! Every Christian who’s body has already died is alive in the Spirit just like God Himself. No one will miss out on the return of Jesus Christ for christians its a wonderful hope. For the unbelieving dead a day to dread.

Christians who truly love their fellows will not be quick to publish but cover another’s sin and help and encourage them just as Jesus has done for us 4:8 , 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Some christians are unsure if they have any spiritual gifts, but Peter is clear we all have been given spiritual gifts by God who is glorified when we use them in blessing others. If we shy away from discovering and then using the gift or gifts assigned to us we rob God of glory, someone of blessing, we also rob ourselves also. 4:10

We Christians must learn to be good stewards of Gods gifts, we are channels so that Gods love can flow out to others. In the gospels a Steward was someone who managed another mans property, spiritual gifts must never be used just as the bearer pleases, It must always be recognised that it is God who is ministering through His people. 4:11

memory verse

God has given gifts to each of you from His great variety of spiritual gifts. Manage them well so that God’s generosity can flow through you. 1 Peter 4: 10 N.L.T

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