7 The end and culmination of all things is near. Therefore, be sound-minded and self-controlled for the purpose of prayer [staying balanced and focused on the things of God so that your communication will be clear, reasonable, specific and pleasing to Him.] 8 Above all, have [a]fervent and unfailing love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins [it overlooks unkindness and unselfishly seeks the best for others]. 9 Be [b]hospitable to one another without complaint.

10 Just as each one of you has received a special gift [a spiritual talent, an ability graciously given by God], employ it in serving one another as [is appropriate for] good stewards of God’s multi-faceted grace [faithfully using the diverse, varied gifts and abilities granted to Christians by God’s unmerited favor]. 11 Whoever speaks [to the congregation], is to do so as one who speaks the oracles (utterances, the very words) of God. Whoever serves [the congregation] is to do so as one who serves by the strength which God [abundantly] supplies, so that in all things God may be glorified [honored and magnified] through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 4:7-11 (AMP) 中文 

End is coming

In the previous passage, Peter talked about a judgment for the unrighteous at the end times. He tells us now that that time is near. In light of this reality, how should we live?

Live like last days

Here are Peter’s directions:

• Be sound-minded and self-controlled. Why? For the purpose of prayer. Amplified adds: “staying balanced and focused on the things of God so that your communication will be clear, reasonable, specific and pleasing to Him.” Don’t get distracted by the world and forget this great work of prayer.
• Love one another. Why? Because love covers a multitude of sins. Again AMP adds: it overlooks unkindness and unselfishly seeks the best for others”. And Peter says, “above all else”. He’s likely referring to Jesus’ instruction that the 2nd greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:39).
• Be hospitable to one another without complaint. To be hospitable is “given to generous and cordial reception of guests” (Webster’s dictionary), but also, more generally, to be “readily receptive” (as to new ideas). While showing hospitality, we should not complain or grumble, as if it’s a heavy burden. For God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). 
• Use our gifts (Romans 12:6–8). All followers of Christ have received (a) gift(s) from the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:11) These gifts are given for one purpose – to build up the body of Christ, the church. We’re directed to use them, develop them, and seek the greater gifts (1 Corinthians 12:31). 
• Speak in church. This is one of the spiritual gifts. This could be preaching or teaching. When we do, do so with reference and awe as if speaking the very words of God. 
• Serve one another. This is not to be done in our own, limited, strength. But we are to call out to God for strength from Him and miraculous ability.

The final goal is God’s glory. All we do should be with that end in mind (Matthew 5:16). And all glory is funnelled through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever (Philippians 2:10-11).

RЯeflection

• Do we live as if the last days are coming, that Christ will come in the clouds to rapture His church at any time? Are we ready? Or maybe the better question is, will we be taken with him or left on the earth like all other non-believers? If you’re not sure, click here.
• Which of the above list hits home with you? How’s your prayer life? Do you know your gift(s) and use them? How are you doing at loving others? What about showing hospitality? Are you a teacher or preacher? All of us should ask if we show reverence to His Word. Or are you lacking in service? Or do we depend on our own strength?