I have experienced the best of humanity in the worst of scenarios. In places of persecution; with people who face inevitable early death from treatable diseases; so many tragic situations have re-focused the minds so that every moment becomes a gift to either squander or use for God’s glory.
If you knew Jesus Christ would return in 2023 would it matter?
If you believed the end of all things was near: How would you pray? (v7)
If you believed the end of all things was near: Which person that hurt you would you love more? (v8)
If you believed the end of all things was near: Would you stop complaining? (v9)
If you believed the end of all things was near: How would you be generous with what you have been given? (v10)
If you believed the end of all things was near: Would what comes out of your mouth change? (v11)
If you believed the end of all things was near: Who would you help today? (v11)
If you believed the end of all things was near: Would you waste time analysing your life? (v12)
If you believed the end of all things was near: How would you view your suffering? (v13)
If you believed the end of all things was near: Would you be less worried about what people think of you? (v14)
If you believed the end of all things was near: Would your behaviour change? (v15)
If you believed the end of all things was near: What would success then look like for you? (v16)
If you believed the end of all things was near: Would you be ready to meet God? (v17)
If you believed the end of all things was near: How would you view those who do not know Christ? (v18)
If you believed the end of all things was near: How would this impact your trust of God? (v19)
Depending on the answers it could suggest that there are ‘Christians’ who do not believe the end of all things is near.
“The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?’ 19 So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” (1 Peter 4 v 7-19)