Text: 1 Peter 4:1-4
In these verses, Peter described how the life of a Christian is to be different from the world. However, we did not always behave in this way. Every Christian has sins in their past, yet we gave them up. Those around us notice the difference and are surprised by our behavior – “they think it strange” (KJV). Let us consider some of the ways that we ought to stand out from the world. What do people notice about us that they are “surprised” about?
We Avoid Fornication
- Fornication refers to any sexual activity outside of marriage – marriage is to be held in honor (Hebrews 13:4); yet fornication has become so common that virginity is sometimes viewed as strange or even wrong
- Without repentance, those who engage in this behavior will not inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 6:9)
- God wants us to be set apart (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5) – includes abstaining from sexual immorality
We Abstain from Alcohol
- Peter used three terms to refer to the consumption of alcohol (1 Peter 4:3), all of which are to be avoided – drunkenness (incapacitated), carousing (wild parties), drinking parties (“social” or casual drinking)
- There is permission in the New Testament to use alcohol medicinally (1 Timothy 5:23) – but even then, we should be reluctant and cautious
- The wise man listed several negative consequences that come from using alcohol (Proverbs 23:29-30, 33-35) – his solution was to not even look at it (Proverbs 23:31)
We Don’t Use Bad Language
- Foul language has become so pervasive in our culture – it is almost more shocking for someone to NOT use bad words than to use them
- We are to let no unwholesome word proceed from our mouth (Ephesians 4:29) – includes bad language
- When Peter wanted to convince people that he was not Jesus’ disciple, he resorted to cursing (Matthew 26:73-74)
We Dress Modestly
- The Scriptures typically speak of this as it applies to women, but the principle applies to all – shopping for clothes can be difficult; following fashion trends often requires exposing more and more skin
- We are to avoid immodest apparel (1 Timothy 2:9-10) – one could be guilty of being “dressed as a harlot” (Proverbs 7:10); we should dress in such a way that we are “making a claim to godliness” (1 Timothy 2:10)
- Our clothing should not distract from “the hidden person of the heart” (1 Peter 3:3-4)
Conclusion
- We have been called to be like Christ – naturally, this will make us different from the world
- This should be seen in our behavior – others see it and “think it strange“
- But we need to remember that we will all give an account to the Lord (1 Peter 4:5) – this is why the gospel was preached (1 Peter 4:6); so we can hear, believe, and obey it and be saved
