In this chapter, Peter seems to focus more on words of encouragement towards those who suffer because of their faith in Christ and less on suffering itself. He wants us to know how important it is that suffering is a part of God’s divine plan. He uses such phrases as, “Even when suffering, continue to do good and trust your future to the judgment and mercy of a faithful God; show hospitality to each other without complaining; use the gifts God has given you for the good of one another.”
Then suddenly, Peter has a change of thought. He goes from talking about “encouragement” to talking about difficult times ahead, “warning” his listeners to stand firm. He speaks about how “we are coming to the end of all times.” But he still encourages the people to pray more forcefully. And in verses 17 to 18 he refers to the time of judgment and how it begins with believers and then with the non-believers.
It seems to me that in chapter 4, Peter touches on the most important points when it comes to suffering for Christ.
Paul also wrote to the church at Rome about why we suffer.
Roman’s 5:3-5 Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Amen.