Arm Yourselves (1 Peter 4:1-11)

Imagine for a moment a world where every Christian truly lived out the teachings of Jesus, where righteousness, forgiveness, service, and love weren’t just a ideas but a way of life, and where self-sacrifice wasn't an exception but the norm. Picture a community so dedicated to each other that hospitality flowed naturally, and each person's gifts were used not for personal gain but for the glory of God. This is the vision Peter had for the early church, and it's the vision God has for us today.

As we dive into 1 Peter 4:1-11, we'll explore what it means to prepare our minds for God’s will, to put away sin, and to put on earnest love through practical actions. We'll see how these ancient words are not just lofty ideals but a call to real, transformative living. Today, let's open our hearts and minds to God's Word and His call to a deeper, more authentic faith. This is more than a message—it's a blueprint for becoming the church God desires us to be.

I. Preparing Mentally to Pursue God's Will (1 Peter 4:1-2)

1 Peter 4:1–2 (ESV) — 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.

In our journey as followers of Christ, we must embrace a profound reality: the path of discipleship is not one of ease and comfort but one marked by suffering and sacrifice. Peter opens this section of his letter with a striking command: "Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking." This imagery of arming ourselves suggests that we are engaged in a spiritual battle, and our mindset towards suffering is our critical weapon.

Christ's suffering was purposeful. It was the means by which He accomplished our redemption, breaking the power of sin and death. Similarly, when we endure suffering for doing good, we participate in Christ's sufferings and demonstrate that we have broken away from the dominion of sin. This mindset is crucial for us as believers. It shifts our focus from immediate comfort and pleasure to the eternal purposes of God. It helps us see suffering not as an obstacle but as a tool that God uses to refine us and draw us closer to Him.

To prepare ourselves mentally for this battle, we need to immerse ourselves in prayer and meditation on the Scriptures. By constantly reminding ourselves of Christ’s suffering and the reasons behind it, we fortify our resolve to endure our own trials. Consider Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, praying fervently as He faced the impending cross. He was in agony, yet He prayed, "Not my will, but yours be done." This is the mindset we must arm ourselves with—a willingness to embrace suffering if it means fulfilling God’s will.

This mindset helps us cease from sin. When we are prepared to suffer for doing good, we show a decisive break from a life dominated by sinful desires. We no longer live for human passions but for the will of God. This transformation is not merely a change in behavior but a deep, inner change in our mindset and priorities. It is a shift from self-centeredness to God-centeredness, from seeking our own pleasure to seeking God’s glory.

Practically, this means we need to evaluate our daily lives and ask ourselves: Are we living for God’s will or our own desires? Are we prepared to suffer for doing what is right, even if it means facing ridicule, persecution, or loss? Let us commit ourselves to daily prayer and reflection on Christ’s sufferings, asking God to strengthen our resolve and help us live for His will. By arming ourselves with Christ’s mindset towards suffering, we can break free from the power of sin and live lives that honor and glorify God.

II. Putting Away Sin (1 Peter 4:3-6)

1 Peter 4:3–6 (ESV) — 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.

As we continue to navigate our journey of faith, Peter calls us to a decisive and transformative action: putting away sin. He writes, “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.” Peter reminds us that we have spent enough of our past lives indulging in sinful behaviors. Now, as followers of Christ, we are called to leave these behind and embrace a new way of living.

The list of sins Peter mentions represents a lifestyle dominated by human desires and earthly pleasures. These behaviors are not only contrary to God’s will but also detrimental to our spiritual well-being. As believers, we must recognize the destructive nature of these sins and make a conscious effort to abandon them. This is not merely a call to change our outward behavior but to undergo a deep, inner transformation that reflects our commitment to Christ.

However, putting away sin is not always easy. When we choose to live differently from the world around us, we may face misunderstanding and hostility. Peter acknowledges this when he writes, “With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you.” When we reject the sinful behaviors that once characterized our lives, those who continue in such behaviors may not understand our transformation. They may mock us, criticize us, or even ostracize us.

Yet, this opposition should not deter us. Instead, it should reinforce our resolve to live for God’s will. We must remember that our ultimate accountability is to God, not to those who judge us by worldly standards. Peter assures us that “they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.” This reminder of divine judgment provides both a warning and a comfort. It warns those who persist in sin that they will face God’s judgment, and it comforts believers by affirming that God sees and honors our efforts to live righteously.

Peter continues in verse 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.” This verse can be challenging to interpret, but it underscores the power and reach of the gospel. Notice the NET translation.

“Now it was for this very purpose that the gospel was preached to those who are now dead, so that though they were judged in the flesh by human standards they may live spiritually by God’s standards”

It suggests that the gospel was preached to those who have died, so that despite the judgment of wicked rulers, they might live eternally in the spirit. This emphasizes the eternal perspective we must hold as believers—recognizing that our ultimate hope and life are found in God’s spirit, not in our earthly circumstances.

Practically speaking, putting away sin involves several steps. First, we need to identify the specific sins and behaviors that are hindering our spiritual growth. This requires honest self-examination and a willingness to confront the areas of our lives that need change. Second, we must confess these sins to God, seeking His forgiveness and cleansing. Third, we should seek accountability within the Christian community. Sharing our struggles with trusted brothers and sisters in Christ can provide the support and encouragement we need to overcome these sins. Finally, we must actively replace sinful behaviors with godly ones. This means filling our lives with practices that draw us closer to God, such as prayer, Bible study, worship, and acts of service.

By putting away sin and embracing a new way of life, we demonstrate our commitment to Christ and our desire to live according to His will instead of our own. This transformation not only benefits us personally but also serves as a powerful witness to those around us. As we leave behind our past sinful behaviors and face opposition with grace and steadfastness, we reflect the transformative power of the gospel and the hope that is found in Christ. This change is fueled by the knowledge that we live under God’s watchful eye, accountable to Him who judges justly and offers eternal life through the Spirit.

III. Putting on Love (1 Peter 4:7-11)

1 Peter 4:7–11 (ESV) — 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.

As we continue to journey through Peter’s exhortation, we come to a pivotal and practical aspect of our faith: putting on love and using our spiritual gifts to serve one another. Peter begins this section with a sense of urgency, “The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.” Peter reminds us that the imminent return of Christ should profoundly shape our conduct and priorities. This awareness of the end times should lead us to live intentionally, focusing on what truly matters.

At the heart of this passage is a call to love earnestly. Peter writes, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” Love is the foundational virtue that binds the Christian community together. It is not a superficial or fleeting emotion but a deep, fervent commitment to the well-being of others. This kind of love is powerful because it covers sins, fostering forgiveness and reconciliation within the community.

Love is depicted as an activity we engage in. It’s not enough to claim that we love one another. Love should be seen in the way we open up our homes and our lives to one another with hospitality. It should also be seen in how we use our tongues and our gifts to serve one another. We should be working in the kingdom, using the gifts God provides with the strength and ability God provides.

Peter then moves to specific expressions of this earnest love, starting with hospitality. “Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” Hospitality in the early church was vital. It involved opening one’s home and resources to fellow believers, especially those traveling or in need. Today, hospitality remains a crucial way to demonstrate love. It’s about creating a welcoming and supportive environment where people can experience the love of Christ firsthand. Importantly, Peter emphasizes that this should be done without grumbling. True hospitality comes from a heart of genuine love and service, not from obligation or resentment.

Then, Peter emphasizes that every believer has received a gift from God. These gifts are manifestations of God's varied grace, distributed among us for the purpose of building up the church and advancing His kingdom. The diversity of gifts reflects the richness of God's grace and the uniqueness of each member within the body of Christ. Whether our gift is speaking, serving, teaching, encouraging, or any other talent, each one is vital for the health and growth of the church.

The central idea here is stewardship. As stewards of God's grace, we are entrusted with these gifts to use them responsibly and effectively. Stewardship implies that the gifts are not our own to use for personal gain or recognition, but they are given to us by God to be used for His purposes and glory. This shifts our perspective from self-centeredness to a focus on serving others and glorifying God.

Peter provides specific guidance on how to use these gifts. "Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God." This means that those who are gifted in speaking—whether it be preaching, teaching, or offering counsel—should do so with the utmost care and reverence, recognizing that they are conveying God's truth. Their words should be guided by the wisdom of Scripture and delivered with humility and integrity. Speaking as if conveying the oracles of God underscores the seriousness and responsibility of handling God's Word.

Similarly, "whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies." This instruction highlights the importance of relying on God's strength rather than our own when serving others. Serving can be demanding and exhausting, but when we draw on God's strength, we find the endurance and capacity to serve joyfully and effectively. It is a reminder that our abilities and energies are sustained by God's provision, and it is through His empowerment that we can truly make an impact.

The ultimate purpose of using our gifts is clear: "in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ." Our service, whether through speaking or other forms of ministry, should always aim to bring glory to God. This means that our actions and attitudes should reflect His character and point others to Him. It challenges us to examine our motives, ensuring that we seek God's glory rather than our own recognition.

Continuing the sentiment of love, using our gifts is a practical expression of that love. When we serve others with the gifts God has given us, we demonstrate care and concern for their well-being. Love in action involves recognizing the needs of others and using our talents to meet those needs. It builds up the body of Christ, creating a supportive and nurturing community where everyone can thrive.

Practical steps to use God's gifts for His glory include:

1. Identifying Our Gifts: Spend time in prayer and reflection to understand the unique gifts God has given us. Seek input from trusted leaders and fellow believers who can help recognize these gifts.
2. Developing Our Gifts: Invest in developing our gifts through study, practice, and training. This might involve taking courses, joining ministry teams, or seeking mentorship from more experienced individuals.
3. Using Our Gifts in Service: Look for opportunities within the church and community to use our gifts. This could be through teaching, hospitality, administration, mercy ministries, or any other area where there is a need.
4. Serving with Humility and Dependence on God: Approach our service with a heart of humility, recognizing that it is God who enables us to serve. Regularly pray for His strength and guidance in our ministry efforts.
5. Glorifying God in All We Do: Constantly remind ourselves that our ultimate goal is to glorify God. Celebrate the ways God is working through us and give Him the credit for the results.

In conclusion, using God's gifts for His glory is a continuation of the earnest love we are called to put on. It involves recognizing the unique abilities God has entrusted to us, developing and using them to serve others, and ensuring that all our efforts point back to Him. By doing so, we fulfill our role as stewards of God's varied grace and create a vibrant, loving community that reflects the glory of God. Let us commit to using our gifts faithfully and joyfully, always aiming to honor God in everything we do.1

IV. Struggling to Arm Ourselves with the Thinking of Christ

Why do we struggle?

As we dive deeper into Peter’s exhortation, it is crucial to acknowledge the reality of our struggle to arm ourselves with the mindset of Christ. Peter’s call to “arm yourselves with the same way of thinking” is not merely an idealistic expectation; it is a profound challenge that confronts us with the core of our human nature and the cultural pressures we face.

One of the primary difficulties in adopting Christ’s mindset is our inherent aversion to suffering. In our human nature, we naturally seek comfort, pleasure, and ease. The very thought of suffering, especially for the sake of righteousness, goes against our instinctual desires. We live in a society that often promotes instant gratification and self-indulgence, making it even harder to embrace the concept of suffering as a path to spiritual growth and alignment with God’s will. Notice that Christ endured a far greater suffering than we ever will, and he did so willingly. How? The gospels tell us that he found strength in prayer.

Another aspect of this struggle is the spiritual battle we face. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil. The enemy seeks to undermine our faith and distract us from our calling. He uses our weaknesses, temptations, and doubts to draw us away from the path of righteousness. Arming ourselves with the mindset of Christ requires a constant vigilance and reliance on God’s strength to resist these spiritual attacks. Acknowledging Satan’s presence and working is important to help us maintain the right mindset. Jesus did that on multiple occasions.

Additionally, the reality of our past experiences and ongoing struggles with sin can hinder our ability to think as Christ did. The memories of our past failures, the habits we have formed, and the ongoing temptations we face can create a sense of defeat and hopelessness. We may feel unworthy or incapable of truly adopting the mindset of Christ, leading us to give up before we even begin.

How do we overcome?

Despite these challenges, Peter’s call to arm ourselves with Christ’s mindset is not without hope or guidance. The apostle provides us with practical steps and reassurances that can help us in this struggle. Firstly, he reminds us of the purpose and power of suffering. Just as Christ’s suffering was redemptive and purposeful, our suffering for righteousness has a profound spiritual significance in the eyes of those who surround us. It even helps us to cease from sin and align our lives with God’s will.

Peter also points us to the importance of community and mutual support. The Christian journey is not meant to be walked alone. We are called to support and encourage one another, sharing our struggles and victories. By being part of a loving and accountable community, we can find the strength and encouragement we need to persevere as we open up our homes and our lives with one another.

Furthermore, Peter emphasizes the necessity of prayer and sobriety. Being sober-minded and prayerful keeps us spiritually alert and connected to God’s will. Regular prayer and meditation on God’s word fortify our minds and hearts, enabling us to resist the cultural pressures and spiritual attacks we face.

In practical terms, we can take several steps to arm ourselves with the thinking of Christ. First, we need to immerse ourselves in Scripture, allowing God’s word to shape our thoughts and attitudes. Studying the life and teachings of Jesus can help us understand His mindset and apply it to our own lives. Second, we should cultivate a robust prayer life, seeking God’s guidance and strength daily. Third, we must engage in regular self-examination, identifying the areas where we struggle to adopt Christ’s mindset and seeking accountability and support from fellow believers.

Lastly, we need to embrace the reality of suffering as part of our spiritual journey. Instead of avoiding or resenting it, we should seek to understand its purpose and allow it to refine us. Remembering that we are following in the footsteps of Christ, who endured the ultimate suffering for our sake, can give us the courage and resolve to persevere.

Prepare Your Minds For Authentic Christianity

In conclusion, arming ourselves with the thinking of Christ is a challenging but essential aspect of our faith. It requires us to confront our natural aversion to suffering, resist cultural pressures, and engage in a spiritual battle. Yet, with the guidance of Scripture, the support of our community, and the power of prayer, we can embrace this mindset and live lives that honor and glorify God. Let us commit to this journey, trusting that God will equip us with the strength and grace we need to overcome our struggles and walk in His will.

True Christianity is not about ticking off boxes on a religious checklist. It’s about a vibrant, living relationship with God that transforms every aspect of our lives. It’s about loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31). This kind of love is sacrificial, putting the needs of others above our own. It’s a love that forgives, heals, and brings hope. It’s a love that glorifies God and shines brightly in a world desperately in need of His grace.

Let us not settle for a half-hearted faith. Let us strive for a Christianity that is real, deep, and transformative. May we be a people who discern God's will, put away sin, love earnestly, and use our gifts for His glory. This is our mission. This is our calling. And by God’s grace, this is what we can become.

Conclusion: A Vision for the Church

Peter’s vision for the church is to be a radiant community of believers who embody the love, self-sacrificial service, and truth of Jesus Christ. We envision a church where love is not merely spoken but demonstrated in every action and interaction. A place where each member is committed to loving one another earnestly, covering sins with forgiveness, and fostering unity through genuine relationships.

This is not a vision that people living to succeed in this life will embrace. It sounds good, and it is, but it’s not easy to live out. It’s great to be a part of a group of people who engage in self-sacrificial service, where everyone uses their God-given gifts to serve others with joy and humility. But, when our service extends beyond our walls, reaching out to the lost, the hurting, and the marginalized, reflecting Christ's compassion and care, that means we don’t get to have all the fun everyone else does, or pursue what gratifies our desires. We aim not to be known not for seeking our own glory but for God’s goodness to be known in all we do, serving by the strength He provides and pointing all praise to Him.

In fulfilling this vision, we aim to be a church that not only talks about love and service but lives it out daily, drawing others to Christ and bringing glory to God. This is the church we aspire to be—a community transformed by God’s love, dedicated to His mission, and shining brightly for His glory.

As we go forth, let us commit to being the church God calls us to be. Let’s embrace the sacrificial love of Christ, use our gifts to serve others, and speak His truth with honesty and integrity. Let’s be a community marked by radical hospitality, where everyone feels welcomed and valued. In everything, let’s aim to glorify God, shining His light in a world desperately in need of His hope and love.

This is our mission, our calling, and with God’s strength, it is what we can become. Let us pray for the courage and the grace to live out this vision, to be the church that truly reflects the heart of Christ.