June 7
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DIE TO YOUR FLESH AND LIVE FOR GOD’S WILL
Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because the one who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human lusts, but for the will of God. 3 For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of indecent behavior, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties, and wanton idolatries. 4 In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them in the same excesses of debauchery, and they slander you; 5 but they will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as people, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God.
– 1 Peter 4:1-6
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In this letter, Peter emphasizes the importance of suffering or dying to the flesh. Because Jesus has set the example for being able to live in the Spirit by believing in him, we have hope that we can overcome human lusts and live for God’s will.
Peter addresses the Gentiles who cater to their cravings and in verse 3, he identifies some of the manifestations of living in the flesh such as:
1. Indecent behavior- Biblehub.com defines this as behavior unfit to be seen or heard; offensive to modesty and delicacy; as, indecent language.
2. Lusts- Baker’s evangelical dictionary says that it is a strong craving or desire, often of a sexual nature. The word is never used in a positive context; rather, it is always seen in a negative light, relating primarily either to a strong desire for sexual immorality or idolatrous worship
3. Drunkenness-Paul identifies drunkenness as sin and results from fleshly desires
4. Carousing-bibletools.com defines it as indulging in one’s appetites excessively. It could be food or drink or many other things.
5. Drinking parties- to be involved in heavy drinking which may lead to other sins.
6. Wanton idolatries-is the act of worshipping an image or a created object freely.
Peter admonishes all believers never to indulge in these fruits of the flesh, but rather die to the flesh and live for following God’s will. He warns them that they will be hold accountable for the sins they commit against the Lord.
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REFLECTION
• Why is it so hard to die to our desires and cravings instead of obeying God’s will?