1 Peter 4:4

KJV

¶ Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with [them] to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of [you]:

KJV (with Strong's)

Wherein {G1722}{G3739} they think it strange {G3579} that ye {G5216} run {G4936} not {G3361} with them to {G1519} the same {G846} excess {G401} of riot {G810}, speaking evil of {G987} you:

Complete Jewish Bible

They think it strange that you don’t plunge with them into the same flood of dissoluteness, and so they heap insults on you.

Berean Standard Bible

Because of this, they consider it strange of you not to plunge with them into the same flood of reckless indiscretion, and they heap abuse on you.

American Standard Version

wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them into the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 4:4 describes the bewildered and hostile reaction of unbelievers to the transformed lives of Christians. Having previously participated in the same sinful excesses, these individuals now find it "strange" that believers no longer join their dissolute lifestyle, leading them to slander and revile those who have chosen a path of righteousness in Christ. This verse highlights the inevitable social friction and opposition that arises when a believer's commitment to God's will starkly contrasts with the world's unbridled pursuits.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Peter's broader exhortation to believers regarding their identity and conduct in light of Christ's suffering and impending judgment. In [1 Peter 4:1-3](/1_peter/4-1-3 "1 Peter 4:1-3 - Arm Yourselves with the Same Mind as Christ"), Peter urges Christians to "arm yourselves with the same mind" as Christ, meaning to adopt a mindset prepared for suffering in the flesh, thereby ceasing from sin. He explicitly states that believers have already spent "enough time" living according to the desires of the Gentiles, engaging in various forms of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, carousing, and abominable idolatries. Verse [1 Peter 4:4](/1_peter/4-4 "1 Peter 4:4 - The World's Reaction to Christian Living") directly follows this declaration, explaining the social consequences of this radical break from a former pagan lifestyle. It sets the stage for Peter's subsequent encouragement to live for God's will and to be prepared for the fiery trials that test their faith, as seen in [1 Peter 4:7-19](/1_peter/4-7-19 "1 Peter 4:7-19 - Living in Light of the End").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First Peter was written to Christians scattered throughout Asia Minor, many of whom were Gentile converts living in a predominantly pagan Roman society. This society was characterized by widespread polytheism, emperor worship, and a range of social practices that often involved public festivals, lavish banquets, and unrestrained revelry, often accompanied by sexual immorality and excessive drinking. For a new convert, abandoning these societal norms and participating in distinctively Christian gatherings (which were often misunderstood or viewed with suspicion) meant a significant break from their former social circles and cultural expectations. The "excess of riot" (ἀσωτία, _asōtía_) mentioned in the verse would have been a common feature of the pagan lifestyle, encompassing dissolute conduct, wasteful extravagance, and a general lack of moral restraint. Christians' refusal to participate in these activities would have been highly noticeable and seen as an affront to social cohesion, leading to bewilderment and hostility.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Peter 4:4](/1_peter/4-4 "1 Peter 4:4 - The World's Reaction to Christian Living") contributes significantly to several key themes in the epistle. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Distinctive Christian Living** and **Separation from the World**. Believers are called to a radical transformation that sets them apart from the prevailing culture, reflecting their new identity in Christ. This separation is not merely abstention but a positive commitment to God's will, as outlined in [1 Peter 4:2](/1_peter/4-2 "1 Peter 4:2 - Living for the Will of God"). Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **Suffering for Righteousness' Sake**. Peter consistently prepares his readers for the reality that living a godly life will inevitably invite misunderstanding, ridicule, and even persecution from those who do not share their faith. This is a recurring motif, from [1 Peter 2:19-21](/1_peter/2-19-21 "1 Peter 2:19-21 - Suffering for Doing Good") to [1 Peter 3:13-17](/1_peter/3-13-17 "1 Peter 3:13-17 - Suffering for Righteousness"). Finally, it touches on the theme of **Divine Judgment and Accountability**, as those who "speak evil" will "give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead" ([1 Peter 4:5](/1_peter/4-5 "1 Peter 4:5 - They Will Give Account")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **strange (Greek, _xenízō'_):** From G3579, meaning "to be a host (passively, a guest); by implication, be (make, appear) strange." In this context, it conveys the idea of being surprised, shocked, or bewildered. The unbelievers find it utterly alien and incomprehensible that their former companions no longer participate in their dissolute activities. It implies a sense of alienation or foreignness from the perspective of the world.
* **excess (Greek, _anáchysis'_):** From G401, meaning "properly, effusion, i.e. (figuratively) license." This word denotes an overflowing, a pouring out, or an unrestrained indulgence. When paired with "riot," it paints a vivid picture of unbridled, uncontrolled behavior, signifying a life lived without moral boundaries or self-control.
* **riot (Greek, _asōtía'_):** From G810, meaning "properly, unsavedness, i.e. (by implication) profligacy." This term describes a life of wasteful extravagance, dissolute conduct, and utter profligacy. It signifies a reckless abandonment to sensual pleasures and a lack of moral restraint, often leading to ruin. It implies a state of being "unsaved" or beyond salvation in a moral sense, characterized by debauchery.
* **speaking evil of (Greek, _blasphēméō'_):** From G987, meaning "to vilify; specially, to speak impiously." This word goes beyond mere disagreement; it implies active slander, defamation, reviling, or speaking abusively. It suggests malicious attacks on the character or reputation of believers, often accompanied by false accusations or insults designed to damage their standing in society.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherein they think it strange":** This phrase refers to the specific lifestyle Peter has just described—the cessation of sinful practices by believers. The "they" are the unbelievers, the "Gentiles" from [1 Peter 4:3](/1_peter/4-3 "1 Peter 4:3 - Enough Time Living for the Desires of the Gentiles"). Their reaction is one of astonishment and incomprehension. They cannot fathom why someone would willingly abandon such a life of pleasure and indulgence. This "strangeness" highlights the radical nature of Christian conversion and the stark contrast between the values of the world and the values of the kingdom of God.
* **"that ye run not with [them] to the same excess of riot":** This clause describes the specific behavior that causes the unbelievers' astonishment. The metaphor of "running with them" vividly portrays participation in their unrestrained, dissolute lifestyle. The "excess of riot" (ἀνάχυσις ἀσωτίας, _anáchysis asōtías_) refers to an overflowing, unrestrained indulgence in profligacy and debauchery. Believers, having been transformed, no longer join in these wild, immoral pursuits, marking a clear break from their past and from the prevailing societal norms. This refusal to conform is perceived as an act of rejection by their former companions.
* **"speaking evil of [you]:"** This final clause reveals the consequence of the unbelievers' bewilderment and rejection. Their incomprehension escalates into active hostility. "Speaking evil" (βλασφημοῦντες, _blasphēmoúntes_) implies not just criticism but slander, defamation, and reviling. They malign Christians, perhaps accusing them of being anti-social, disloyal, or even immoral (ironically, given their own practices). This verbal abuse serves as a form of social persecution, designed to ostracize and discredit believers for their distinct way of life.

#### Literary Devices
Peter employs several **Literary Devices** to convey his message in [1 Peter 4:4](/1_peter/4-4 "1 Peter 4:4 - The World's Reaction to Christian Living"). The most prominent is **Contrast**, as he starkly juxtaposes the former sinful life of believers with their new, transformed conduct. This contrast is further emphasized by the reaction of the unbelievers, who find the Christian lifestyle "strange," highlighting the deep chasm between the two ways of living. There is also an element of **Irony** in the unbelievers "speaking evil" of Christians for their moral uprightness, while they themselves are engaged in "excess of riot." The world condemns what is good, while embracing what is destructive. Finally, the phrase "run not with them" uses **Metaphor**, picturing the collective, headlong rush into sin. By refusing to "run" with them, believers are depicted as breaking away from the stream of worldly indulgence, choosing a different path that is slower, more deliberate, and aligned with God's will.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The theological implications of [1 Peter 4:4](/1_peter/4-4 "1 Peter 4:4 - The World's Reaction to Christian Living") are profound, underscoring the radical nature of Christian conversion and the inevitable tension between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of this world. When individuals are genuinely transformed by the gospel, their values, priorities, and behaviors fundamentally shift, leading to a distinct way of life that stands in stark contrast to the prevailing culture. This distinctiveness often provokes misunderstanding, ridicule, and outright hostility from those who remain immersed in worldly patterns. The world, unable to comprehend a life lived for God's will rather than human passions, resorts to slander and condemnation. This verse serves as a sober reminder that faithfulness to Christ may come at a social cost, yet it simultaneously affirms the divine imperative for believers to live set apart, trusting that their ultimate vindication rests with God.

* [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Do Not Be Conformed to This World")
* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed Are Those Persecuted for Righteousness")
* [Philippians 3:18-19](/philippians/3-18-19 "Philippians 3:18-19 - Enemies of the Cross")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Peter 4:4 remains remarkably relevant for believers in every age, serving as a powerful reminder of the cost and call of discipleship. In a world increasingly defined by self-indulgence, moral relativism, and the pursuit of fleeting pleasures, the Christian commitment to holiness and self-control will inevitably appear "strange" or even offensive to those who do not share our faith. This verse challenges us to examine our own lives: are we truly living distinctively, or are we subtly conforming to the "excess of riot" that characterizes much of contemporary culture, whether it be in entertainment, consumption, or relational patterns? Peter's words prepare us for the reality that our refusal to participate in worldly excesses may lead to misunderstanding, mockery, or even active slander. Rather than being surprised or discouraged by such reactions, we are called to stand firm, remembering that our ultimate audience is God. Our consistent, godly conduct, even when reviled, serves as a powerful, albeit silent, testimony to the transforming power of Christ and the superior joy found in living for His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life might your commitment to Christ be perceived as "strange" by those around you?**
* **How do you typically react when your Christian distinctiveness leads to misunderstanding or criticism from others?**
* **What forms does "excess of riot" take in our contemporary culture, and how can believers actively resist conforming to them?**
* **How can you respond to "speaking evil" in a way that honors Christ and potentially disarms your critics?**

### FAQ

**What does "excess of riot" mean in modern terms?**
Answer: In modern terms, "excess of riot" (Greek: _anáchysis asōtías_) refers to any form of unrestrained, wasteful, and dissolute living. This could include excessive partying, substance abuse, promiscuity, reckless spending, gambling, or any behavior characterized by a lack of self-control, moral abandon, and a pursuit of immediate gratification without regard for consequences or divine standards. It speaks to a life lived without moral boundaries, often leading to personal ruin and societal decay.

**Why do unbelievers "think it strange" that Christians don't participate in their former lifestyle?**
Answer: Unbelievers "think it strange" because they operate from a different worldview and set of values. From their perspective, the pursuit of pleasure and self-gratification is normal and desirable. When Christians, who once shared in these activities, suddenly abandon them, it challenges the unbelievers' own choices and worldview. This change is incomprehensible because they lack the spiritual understanding of new birth and the indwelling Holy Spirit that empowers believers to live differently. It's a fundamental clash of kingdoms—the kingdom of light versus the kingdom of darkness, as seen in [Ephesians 5:8-11](/ephesians/5-8-11 "Ephesians 5:8-11 - Walk as Children of Light").

**How should Christians respond when people "speak evil" of them for their faith?**
Answer: Peter himself provides guidance on this. While [1 Peter 4:4](/1_peter/4-4 "1 Peter 4:4 - The World's Reaction to Christian Living") describes the problem, he later instructs believers to "sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence" ([1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Always Be Prepared to Give an Answer")). We are to respond with grace, gentleness, and respect, allowing our good conduct to speak for itself ([1 Peter 2:12](/1_peter/2-12 "1 Peter 2:12 - Live Honorably Among the Gentiles")). We are called to bless those who persecute us ([Romans 12:14](/romans/12-14 "Romans 12:14 - Bless Those Who Persecute You")) and entrust ourselves to God, who judges righteously ([1 Peter 4:19](/1_peter/4-19 "1 Peter 4:19 - Entrust Your Souls to a Faithful Creator")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Peter 4:4 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The very "strangeness" and "speaking evil" that believers experience for living a distinct life are reflections of the opposition Christ Himself faced. Jesus lived a life of perfect righteousness, utterly set apart from the "excess of riot" of His generation, and for this, He was constantly misunderstood, slandered, and ultimately condemned by the world. He was called a glutton and a drunkard ([Matthew 11:19](/matthew/11-19 "Matthew 11:19 - Jesus Accused of Being a Glutton and Drunkard")), accused of blasphemy ([Mark 2:7](/mark/2-7 "Mark 2:7 - Accused of Blasphemy")), and reviled on the cross ([Matthew 27:39-44](/matthew/27-39-44 "Matthew 27:39-44 - Jesus is Mocked on the Cross")). His example, as the one who "suffered in the flesh" ([1 Peter 4:1](/1_peter/4-1 "1 Peter 4:1 - Christ Suffered in the Flesh")), is the pattern for His followers. Moreover, it is through Christ's atoning sacrifice that believers are empowered to cease from sin and live for the will of God ([1 Peter 4:2](/1_peter/4-2 "1 Peter 4:2 - Living for the Will of God")). The Holy Spirit, given by Christ, enables believers to resist the world's allure and embrace a life of holiness, even when it draws the world's scorn. Thus, the believer's experience of being "thought strange" and "spoken evil of" is a participation in the suffering of Christ, a testament to their union with Him, and a foreshadowing of the ultimate vindication that will come when Christ, the righteous Judge, returns ([1 Peter 4:5](/1_peter/4-5 "1 Peter 4:5 - They Will Give Account to Him")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Peter 3:16

¶ Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

1 Peter 2:12

Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by [your] good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

Jude 1:10

But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.

Acts 18:6

And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook [his] raiment, and said unto them, Your blood [be] upon your own heads; I [am] clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

Acts 13:45

But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.

2 Peter 2:12

But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption;

Romans 13:13

Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.