"For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?" 1 Peter 4:17 (NIV)
The Apostle Peter, writing to the scattered Christians who were being persecuted, said that God's judgment, with rewards and punishments, would begin with the believers. According to the Bible scholars John MacArthur, Matthew Henry, and Finis Dake, this would not be condemnation but a purging and purifying of the Church. The suffering by God's people refines them. This thought is also stated by King Solomon (Proverbs11:31)
Believers will suffer now and in the judgement, but our salvation is assured. While others may not appear the suffer now, there will be greater suffering, without salvation, for the non-believers in the future. Make sure that you are in the family of God.
No comments:
Post a Comment