1 Peter 4:4
“In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excesses of dissipation, and they malign you.”
Verse three mentioned that we’ve given sensuality enough time to test for satisfaction. We’ve lived long enough to know it’s empty and harmful. However, today’s verse shows that not everyone’s convinced of that truth.
Why is it that these don’t see the emptiness of indulgence? They may be addicted and don’t want to see it. A group mindset that feels threatened. It’s their wild behavior that they have in common. There’s another possibility. 2 Thessalonians 2:10b,11 says “…they did not receive the love of the truth so as to be saved. For this reason God will send upon them a deluding influence so that they will believe what is false”. This is a scary reason why some aren’t convinced. They are deluded. It’s the consequence for rejecting the truth.
Peter also says in today’s passage that these mock christians. Pop culture has a steady theme of mocking people of faith. It’s in their movies and their humor. We may have coworkers or friends who do the same. Higher education also ridicules faith. This is difficult on young people. Some lose their faith due to this.
The topic of ridicule makes me think of Billy Joel. His songs are replete with celebrating “the wild life” and belittling faith stands. He celebrates his attempts to disuade catholic girls from their convictions. That was 30 years ago. I would be curious how he feels now; particulary now that he has children.
Our stands won’t be welcomed by everyone. They may invite rude comments. We can’t let them make us sad or quiet.
There are times to speak and times to be quiet. Some believers are odd, legalistic or talk too much. They deserve the consequences of the comments given.
Lord, thank You that You are Lord of our lives. Thank you that You want to help us be avoid the indulgent life. Help us to be merciful with those that don’t understand.