The End is Near

Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7-11 (ESV)

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.

Devotion:

            Today’s scripture passage from 1 Peter tells us how to prepare for Jesus’ return at the day of judgement. Peter’s words taken in context means that he expected Christ’s return soon. While the final day has obviously not yet arrived, the steps we need to take to be ready for that return remain as valid today as they were when they were written.

            First, Peter turns to our prayer life. As we wait for Christ’s return, we are called to be a people of prayer. We must be self-controlled at all times. We should never be driven by any passion except the passion to know Christ and serve his people more and more as the time moves on. Being sober-minded is an exhortation not just for physical sobriety, but for a sober life in all areas. We must not confuse sober-mindedness with joylessness. We are to be filled with the Holy Spirit’s joy.

            Then, Peter addresses the need to love each other. A church without love is a church without God. Our love for one another must be deep and wide. The meaning of the following phrase is up for debate among scholars. Whose sins are being covered here? I take it to mean that the reader’s sins may be covered by true love for one another. Though it may mean that other people’s sins against us are covered.

            Peter quickly follows the exhortation to love with an exhortation to show hospitality to one another. We are to be available to assist our brothers and sisters in the Lord in any way we can. Peter continues his thoughts here by urging us to use our gifts for the good of the church. Whether by speaking or serving we are to do this in the strength that the Lord supplies.

            The conclusion of the passage is a simple call prayer and praise for God. He supplies everything we need to build up His church. Whether by loving, forgiving, speaking, or serving each other we are to draw ourselves together as one body worshiping God. Let us join that chorus of praise as we wait patiently for the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

            Father in heaven, we praise and magnify your name in all we say and do. You have created us to love you and our neighbors with all our strength. May all glory, dominion, and praise be yours today through all eternity. Amen.