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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Peter 4:12–19. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The frequent repetition of counsel and comfort to Christians, considered as sufferers, in every chapter of this epistle, shows that the greatest danger these new converts were in arose from the persecutions to which their embracing Christianity exposed them. The good behaviour of Christians under sufferings is the most difficult part of their duty, but yet necessary both for the honour of Christ and their own comfort; and therefore the apostle, having extorted them in the former part of this chapter to the great duty of mortification, comes here to direct them in the necessary duty of patience under sufferings. An unmortified spirit is very unfit to bear trials. Observe,
I.The apostle's kind manner of address to these poor despised Christians: they were his beloved, Pe1 4:9.
II.His advice to them, relating to their sufferings, which is,
1.That they should not think them strange, nor be surprised at them, as if some unexpected event befell them; for,
(1.)Though they be sharp and fiery, yet they are designed only to try, not to ruin them, to try their sincerity, strength, patience, and trust in God. On the contrary, they ought rather to rejoice under their sufferings, because theirs may properly be called Christ's sufferings. They are of the same kind, and for the same cause, that Christ suffered; they make us conformable to him; he suffers in them, and feels in our infirmities; and, if we be partakers of his sufferings, we shall also be make partakers of his glory, and shall meet him with exceeding joy at his great appearing to judge his enemies, and crown his faithful servants, Th2 1:7, etc. Learn,
[1.]True Christians love and own the children of God in their lowest and most distressing circumstances. The apostle owns these poor afflicted Christians, and calls them his beloved. True Christians never look more amiable one to another than in their adversities.
[2.]There is no reason for Christians to think strange, or to wonder, at the unkindnesses and persecutions of the world, because they are forewarned of them. Christ himself endured them; and forsaking all, denying ourselves, are the terms upon which Christ accepts of us to be his disciples.
[3.]Christians ought not only to be patient, but to rejoice, in their sharpest sorest sufferings for Christ, because they are tokens of divine favour; they promote the gospel and prepare for glory. Those who rejoice in their sufferings for Christ shall eternally triumph and rejoice with him in glory.
(2.)From the fiery trial the apostle descends to a lower degree of persecution - that of the tongue by slander and reproach, Pe1 4:14. He supposes that this sort of suffering would fall to their lot: they would be reviled, evil-spoken of, and slandered for the name or sake of Christ. In such case he asserts, Happy are you, the reason of which is, "Because you have the spirit of God with you, to fortify and comfort you; and the Spirit of God is also the Spirit of glory, that will carry you through all, bring you off gloriously, and prepare and seal you up for eternal glory. This glorious Spirit resteth upon you, resideth with you, dwelleth in you, supporteth you, and is pleased with you; and is not this an unspeakable privilege? By your patience and fortitude in suffering, by your dependence upon the promises of God, and adhering to the word which the Holy Spirit hath revealed, he is on your part glorified; but by the contempt and reproaches cast upon you the Spirit itself is evil-spoken of and blasphemed." Learn,
[1.]The best men and the best things usually meet with reproaches in the world. Jesus Christ and his followers, the Spirit of God and the gospel, are all evil-spoken of.
[2.]The happiness of good people not only consists with, but even flows from their afflictions: Happy are you.
[3.]That man who hath the Spirit of God resting upon him cannot be miserable, let his afflictions be ever so great: Happy are you; for the Spirit of God, etc.
[4.]The blasphemies and reproaches which evil men cast upon good people are taken by the Spirit of God as cast upon himself: On their part he is evil-spoken of.
[5.]When good people are vilified for the name of Christ his Holy Spirit is glorified in them.
2.That they should take care they did not suffer justly, as evil-doers, Pe1 4:15. One would think such a caution as this needless to such an excellent set of Christians as these were. But their enemies charged them with these and other foul crimes: therefore the apostle, when he was settling the rules of the Christian religion, thought these cautions necessary, forbidding every one of them to hurt the life or the estate and property of any one, or to do any sort of evil, or, without call and necessity, to play the bishop in another man's charge, or busy himself in other men's matters. To this caution he adds a direction, that if any man suffer for the cause of Christianity, and with a patient Christian spirit, he ought not to account it a shame, but an honour to him; and ought to glorify God who hath thus dignified him, Pe1 4:16. Learn,
(1.)The best of men need to be warned against the worst of sins.
(2.)There is very little comfort in sufferings when we bring them upon ourselves by our own sin and folly. It is not the suffering, but the cause, that makes the martyr.
(3.)We have reason to thank God for the honour if he calls us out to suffer for his truth and gospel, for our adherence to any of the doctrines or duties of Christianity.
3.That their trials were now at hand, and they should stand prepared accordingly, Pe1 4:17, Pe1 4:18.
(1.)He tells them that the time had come when judgment must begin at the house of God. The usual method of Providence has been this: When God brings great calamities and sore judgments upon whole nations, he generally begins with his own people, Isa 10:12; Jer 25:29; Eze 9:6. "Such a time of universal calamity is now at hand, which was foretold by our Saviour, Mat 24:9, Mat 24:10. This renders all the foregoing exhortations to patience necessary for you. And you have two considerations to support you." [1.] "That these judgments will but begin with you that are God's house and family, and will soon be over: your trials and corrections will not last long." [2.] "Your troubles will be but light and short, in comparison of what shall befall the wicked world, your own countrymen the Jews, and the infidels and idolatrous people among whom you live: What shall the end be of those who obey not the gospel of God?" Learn, First, The best of God's servants, his own household, have so much amiss in them as renders it fit and necessary that God should sometimes correct and punish them with his judgments: Judgment begins at the house of God. Secondly, Those who are the family of God have their worst things in this life. Their worst condition is tolerable, and will soon be over. Thirdly, Such persons or societies of men as disobey the gospel of God are not of his church and household, though possibly they may make the loudest pretensions. The apostle distinguishes the disobedient from the house of God. Fourthly, The sufferings of good people in this life are demonstrations of the unspeakable torments that are coming upon the disobedient and unbelieving: What shall the end be of those that obey not the gospel? Who can express or say how dreadful their end will be?
(2.)He intimates the irremediable doom of the wicked: If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and sinner appear, Pe1 4:18. This whole verse is taken from Pro 11:31, Behold the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth; how much more the wicked and the sinner? This the Septuagint translates exactly as the apostle here quotes it. Hence we may learn,
[1.]The grievous sufferings of good people in this world are sad presages of much heavier judgments coming upon impenitent sinners. But, if we take the salvation here in the highest sense, then we may learn,
[2.]It is as much as the best can do to secure the salvation of their souls; there are so many sufferings, temptations, and difficulties to be overcome, so many sins to be mortified, the gate is so strait and the way so narrow, that it is as much as the righteous can do to be saved. Let the absolute necessity of salvation balance the difficulty of it. Consider, Your difficulties are greatest at first; God offers his grace and help; the contest will not last long; be but faithful to the death, and God will give you the crown of life, Rev 2:10.
[3.]The ungodly and the sinner are unquestionably in a state of damnation. Where shall they appear? How will they stand before their Judge? Where can they show their heads? If the righteous scarcely be saved, the wicked must certainly perish.
4.That when called to suffer, according to the will of God, they should look chiefly to the safety of their souls, which are put into hazard by affliction, and cannot be kept secure otherwise than by committing them to God, who will undertake the charge, if we commit them to him in well-doing; for he is their Creator, and has out of mere grace made many kind promises to them of eternal salvation, in which he will show himself faithful and true, Pe1 4:19. Learn,
(1.)All the sufferings that befall good people come upon them according to the will of God.
(2.)It is the duty of Christians, in all their distresses, to look more to the keeping of their souls than to the preserving of their bodies. The soul is of greatest value, and yet in most danger. If suffering from without raise uneasiness, vexation, and other sinful and tormenting passions within, the soul is then the greatest sufferer. If the soul be not well kept, persecution will drive people to apostasy, Psa 125:3.
(3.)The only way to keep the soul well is to commit it to God, in well-doing. Commit your souls to God by solemn dedication, prayer, and patient perseverance in well-doing, Rom 2:7.
(4.)Good people, when they are in affliction, have great encouragement to commit their souls to God, because he is their Creator, and faithful in all his promises.
Historical interpretation
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Then shall the creation of men come into the fire of trial, and many shall be made to stumble and shall perish; but they that endure in their faith shall be saved from under the curse itself.
But if one should captiously say, And how is it possible for feeble flesh to resist the energies and spirits of the Powers? Well, let him know this, that, confiding in the Almighty and the Lord, we war against the principalities of darkness, and against death. "Whilst thou art yet speaking," He says, "Lo, here am I." See the invincible Helper who shields us. "Think it not strange, therefore, concerning the burning sent for your trial, as though some strange thing happened to you; But, as you are partaken in the sufferings of Christ, rejoice; that at the revelation of His glory ye may rejoice exultant. If ye be reproached in the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the Spirit of glory and of God resteth on you."
That we receive more as the reward of our suffering than what we endure here in the suffering itself, The blessed Apostle Paul proves; who by the divine condescension, being caught up into the third heaven and into paradise, testifies that he heard unspeakable words, who boasts that he saw Jesus Christ by the faith of sight, who professes that which he both learnt and saw with the greater truth of consciousness, and says: "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the coming glory which shall be revealed in us." Who, then, does not with all his powers labour to attain to such a glory that he may become the friend of God, that he may at once rejoice with Christ, that after earthly tortures and punishments he may receive divine rewards? If to soldiers of this world it is glorious to return in triumph to their country when the foe is vanquished, how much more excellent and greater is the glory, when the devil is overcome, to return in triumph to paradise, and to bring back victorious trophies to that place whence Adam was ejected as a sinner, after casting down him who formerly had cast him down; to offer to God the most acceptable gift-an uncorrupted faith, and an unyielding virtue of mind, an illustrious praise of devotion; to accompany Him when He shall come to receive vengeance from His enemies, to stand at His side when He shall sit to judge, to become co-heir of Christ, to be made equal to the angels; with the patriarchs, with the apostles. with the prophets, to rejoice in the possession of the heavenly kingdom! Such thoughts as these, what persecution can conquer, what tortures can overcome? The brave and stedfast mind, founded in religious meditations, endures; and the spirit abides unmoved against all the terrors of the devil and the threats of the world, when it is strengthened by the sure and solid faith of things to come. In persecutions, earth is shut up, but heaven is opened; Antichrist is threatening, but Christ is protecting; death is brought in, but immortality follows; the world is taken away from him that is slain, but paradise is set forth to him restored; the life of time is extinguished, but the life of eternity is realized. What a dignity it is, and what a security, to go gladly from hence, to depart gloriously in the midst of afflictions and tribulations; in a moment to close the eyes with which men and the world are looked upon, and at once to open them to look upon God and Christ! Of such a blessed departure how great is the swiftness! You shall be suddenly taken away from earth, to be placed in the heavenly kingdoms. It behoves us to embrace these things in our mind and consideration, to meditate on these things day and night. If persecution should fall upon such a soldier of God, his virtue, prompt for battle, will not be able tO be overcome. Or if his call should come to him before, his faith shall not be without reward, seeing it was prepared for martyrdom; without loss of time, the reward is rendered by the judgment of God. In persecution, the warfare,-in peace, the purity of conscience, is crowned.
That afflictions and persecutions arise for the sake of our being proved. In Deuteronomy, "The Lord your God proveth you, that He may know if ye love the Lord. your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength." And again, Solomon: "The furnace proveth the potter's vessel, and righteous men the trial of tribulation." Paul also testifies similar things, and speaks, saying: "We glory in the hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulation worketh patience, and patience experience, and experience hope; and hope maketh not ashamed, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who is given unto us." And Peter, in his epistle, lays it down, and says: "Beloved, be not surprised at the fiery heat which falleth upon you, which happens for your trial; and fail not, as if some new thing were happening unto you. But as often as ye communicate with the sufferings of Christ, rejoice in all things, that also in the revelation made of His glory you may rejoice with gladness. If ye be reproached in the name of Christ, happy are ye; because the name of the majesty and power of the Lord resteth upon you; which indeed according to them is blasphemed, but according to us is honoured."
The trials and temptations which come to Christians are nothing new. The prophets of the Old Testament suffered exactly the same things. All such trials find their meaning and culmination in the cross of Christ. The servant is not greater than his master. If Christ suffered, how can we expect to get off any more lightly?
[Syncletica] also said, ‘When the devil does not use the goad of poverty to tempt us, he uses wealth for the same purpose. When he cannot win by scorn and mockery, he tries praise and flattery. If he cannot win by giving health, he tries illness. If he cannot win by comfort, he tries to ruin the soul by vexations that lead us to act against our monastic vows. He inflicts severe sicknesses on people whom he wants to tempt and so makes them weak, and thereby shakes the love they feel towards God. But although the body is shattered and running a high temperature and thirsting unbearably, yet you, who endure all this, are a sinner; you should therefore remember the punishments of the next world, the everlasting fire, the torments of judgement. Then you will not fail in the sufferings of this present time, indeed you should rejoice because God has visited you. Keep saying the famous text: “The Lord hath chastened and corrected me: but he hath not given me over unto death” (Ps. 118:18). Iron is cleaned of rust by fire. If you are righteous and suffer, you grow to a higher sanctity. Gold is tested by fire. When a messenger from Satan is given to you to be a thorn in your flesh, lift up your heart, for you have received a gift like that of St Paul. If you suffer from fever and cold, remember the text of Scripture, “We went through fire and water,” and “thou broughtest us out into a place of rest” (Ps. 66:12). If you have overcome suffering, you may expect rest, provided you are following what is good. Cry aloud the prophet’s words, “I am poor and destitute and in misery” (Ps. 66:29). Threefold suffering like this shall make you perfect. He said also, “Thou hast set me at liberty when I was in trouble” (Ps. 4:1). So let this kind of self-discipline test our souls, for our enemy is always in sight.’
Peter comforts believers here by telling them not to be upset when they face suffering, since Christ bore much more for our sakes than we could ever bear for his. We should therefore remain steadfast in such trials so that one day we may rejoice in his presence.
As though something new were happening to you. For it is very ancient and common for the chosen of God to endure adversities in this present life for eternal salvation.
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal, etc. Some manuscripts read: Do not be strangers to the fiery ordeal. The meaning of both expressions is apparent, because a faithful person should neither be surprised at why he suffers tribulations in this life, as it is for the reason that he is now tried with tribulations so that, when proven, he may be deemed worthy to receive the crown of future life; nor should anyone consider himself to be a stranger and alien from the members of Christ because he is struck by the adversities of the present age, since the death exit of the Lord (Psalm LXVII), and never in His Church, from the first martyr Abel to the last elect who will be born at the end of the age, has the persecution by unbelievers ceased. Therefore, well did he say, Do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal, he added:
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you: but rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed; for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you: if you are insulted for the name of Christ, it is glorified in you. Let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or any kind of criminal, or even as a bigmouth. But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.
"the fiery trial that has come upon you." this is how you are proven.
"of the name of Christ." Because you are called Christians.
"if you are insulted." It must be understood: Who, to be. The meaning: Who seems to be blasphemed by the spirit of God among the wicked, but is glorified in you. How? Because while they falsely accuse you, confusion is indeed poured back upon them, but glory upon you.
"even as a bigmouth," who curiously scrutinizes what belongs to others, in order to have an occasion for slander. This, however, is the disposition of a wicked and deceitful mind, and one that is quick and ready for every evil.
Many Christians found afflictions hard to bear because they had read in the law that a prosperous and secure life was promised to those who serve God. Peter therefore approaches the subject by telling them that they are greatly beloved. He then goes on to warn them not to be surprised at their sufferings, which come to them as tests from God.
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Summary
In 1 Peter 4:12, the Apostle Peter addresses believers facing intense persecution and suffering, urging them to adopt a divine perspective on their trials. He instructs them not to be surprised or dismayed by the "fiery trial" that tests their faith, but rather to understand it as an expected and purposeful aspect of their Christian journey, not an anomaly.
Context
Literary Context
This verse marks a significant transition within Peter's epistle. Having previously exhorted believers to live holy lives in the face of suffering and to love one another (1 Peter 3:8-17), Peter now moves from a general discussion of suffering to a direct preparation for intense, "fiery" trials. The preceding verses (1 Peter 4:1-11) discuss the end of sinful living and the call to live for God's will, emphasizing readiness for the end times and the importance of spiritual gifts. Verse 12 serves as a direct warning and encouragement, setting the stage for the subsequent verses that explain how to respond to such trials, particularly by rejoicing and glorifying God (1 Peter 4:13-19).
Historical & Cultural Context
Peter's first epistle is addressed to "elect exiles of the Dispersion" (1 Peter 1:1) in various Roman provinces of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). These early Christians were a minority group in a predominantly pagan society, often facing social ostracization, slander, economic hardship, and even direct persecution for their refusal to participate in Roman religious practices or emperor worship. The trials they faced were not abstract theological concepts but tangible realities, ranging from public ridicule to legal accusations and physical violence. The term "fiery trial" would have resonated deeply, evoking images of literal burning or the intense heat of a refiner's furnace, a common metaphor for severe testing.
Key Themes
1 Peter is saturated with the theme of suffering for Christ's sake, presenting it not as an anomaly but as an expected and purposeful element of the Christian life. This verse contributes to the broader themes of Divine Sovereignty in Suffering, emphasizing that trials are not random misfortunes but are permitted by God for a specific, beneficial purpose, leading to the purification of faith. It also reinforces the theme of Christian Identity and Hope, reminding believers that their suffering aligns them with Christ's own suffering and points toward future glory. Furthermore, it touches on Holiness and Endurance, urging believers to maintain their spiritual integrity and steadfastness through adversity, a call echoed throughout the epistle, such as in Peter's exhortation to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term, derived from the Greek word for divine love (agape), signifies Peter's deep affection and pastoral care for his readers. It establishes a tender and reassuring tone, reminding them of their cherished status in God's eyes and in the community, even amidst their intense suffering. It underscores that this stern warning comes from a place of love, not condemnation.
This verb, often translated as "to be a host" or "to be a guest," implies "to be (make, appear) strange" in this context. Peter is urging his readers not to be surprised, shocked, or to feel as if something alien or out of the ordinary is happening to them when they face persecution. The implication is that such suffering is an expected, even natural, part of following Christ in a world hostile to God.
This noun literally means "burning" or "a conflagration." Metaphorically, it refers to a severe, intense trial that feels like a burning heat, often associated with the process of refining metals. It powerfully conveys the idea of purification and testing under extreme pressure, suggesting that these trials serve to remove impurities and strengthen faith, much like a refiner's fire.
Verse Breakdown
"¶ Beloved,"
This opening address immediately establishes a tone of endearment and pastoral concern. Peter, as a spiritual father, speaks to his readers with affection, underscoring the deep care he has for them as they navigate severe hardship. This term of endearment serves to soften the difficult message that follows, reassuring them of their value and status in Christ.
"think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you,"
This is the core exhortation. Peter directly confronts the natural human tendency to be surprised or dismayed by intense suffering. The "fiery trial" is a vivid metaphor for severe, purifying adversity, akin to the smelting process that refines metal by burning away dross. The phrase "which is to try you" clarifies the purpose: these trials are not random misfortunes but divinely permitted tests designed to prove, strengthen, and purify the genuineness of their faith.
"as though some strange thing happened unto you:"
This concluding clause reinforces the previous command by negating the idea that their suffering is an anomaly. It counters the perception that their experience is unique, alien, or unexpected for followers of Christ. Peter asserts that such intense trials are a normal, anticipated part of the Christian life, especially for those living faithfully in a hostile world.
Literary Devices
Peter employs several powerful literary devices in this verse. The most prominent is Metaphor, specifically the "fiery trial." This vivid image evokes the process of refining precious metals, where intense heat purifies and separates impurities from the valuable material. This metaphor communicates that the suffering believers endure is not destructive but serves a purposeful, purifying function for their faith. Peter also uses Apostrophe by directly addressing his readers as "Beloved," creating an intimate and empathetic tone that underscores his pastoral care. Furthermore, there is an element of Antithesis or Irony in the phrase "think it not strange... as though some strange thing happened." This rhetorical device highlights the contrast between the expected, normal nature of Christian suffering and the human inclination to view it as an alien or unexpected event, thereby challenging their perspective.
Theological and Thematic Connections
1 Peter 4:12 is a profound theological statement on the nature and purpose of suffering in the Christian life. It refutes the notion that trials are a sign of God's disfavor or abandonment, instead framing them as divinely ordained processes for spiritual refinement and growth. This perspective aligns with a broader biblical theology of suffering, which consistently portrays adversity as a means by which God purifies His people, tests their faith, and draws them into deeper reliance on Him. The "fiery trial" is not merely punitive but redemptive, designed to produce endurance, character, and hope, ultimately leading to greater glory.
Reflection and Application
For believers today, 1 Peter 4:12 offers profound encouragement and a crucial shift in perspective. In a world that often promises ease and comfort, this verse reminds us that hardship, particularly for our faith, is not an anomaly but an expected part of the Christian journey. When faced with difficulties—whether it's social ostracization, professional setbacks, health crises, or direct persecution for our beliefs—our initial reaction might be surprise or even despair. However, Peter calls us to reframe these experiences. Instead of asking "Why is this happening to me?" we are invited to ask "What is God doing in me through this?" Understanding that trials are meant to refine, purify, and strengthen our faith can transform our response from confusion and bitterness to endurance, resilience, and even joy. This perspective enables us to embrace adversity as a means of spiritual growth, recognizing that God is actively at work, shaping us into the image of Christ and preparing us for eternal glory.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "fiery trial" mean in this context?
The "fiery trial" (Greek: pýrōsis) is a powerful metaphor for intense, severe suffering or adversity. It evokes the image of metal being heated in a furnace to remove impurities, a process known as smelting or refining. In this context, it signifies that the trials believers face are not random or meaningless but are purposeful tests designed by God to purify, strengthen, and prove the genuineness of their faith, much like a refiner's fire purifies gold or silver. It suggests a painful but ultimately beneficial process of spiritual refinement.
Why shouldn't believers "think it strange" when they face suffering?
Peter instructs believers not to "think it strange" because suffering for Christ's sake is an expected and normal part of the Christian life, rather than an unusual or alien occurrence. In a world that is often hostile to God and His followers, opposition and hardship are inevitable. Peter wants his readers to understand that their trials are not a sign of God's abandonment or disfavor, but rather a confirmation of their genuine faith and a participation in the sufferings of Christ Himself. This perspective helps believers avoid surprise, despair, and discouragement, fostering resilience and steadfastness. The Bible consistently teaches that those who follow Christ will face tribulation (John 16:33; 2 Timothy 3:12).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
1 Peter 4:12 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "fiery trial" that believers are called not to think strange is a direct participation in the suffering that Christ Himself endured. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, experienced the ultimate "fiery trial" on the cross, where He bore the full wrath of God against sin (Isaiah 53:4-6). His suffering was not for His own purification, but for ours, a redemptive act that purifies us and reconciles us to God (Hebrews 2:10). Peter consistently links the believer's suffering to Christ's, emphasizing that by sharing in His sufferings, we also share in His glory (1 Peter 4:13; Romans 8:17). Thus, our trials are not merely tests of faith, but a profound identification with our suffering Savior, who Himself was "perfected through suffering" (Hebrews 5:8-9). In Christ, the purpose of suffering is revealed: it is a path to greater conformity to Him, a means by which we are prepared for the eternal glory that awaits us at His revelation (Colossians 1:24).