1 Peter 4:11
Verse
Context
Living for God’s Glory
10As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.11If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any man speak - In order to explain or enforce God's word, and edify his neighbor, let him do it as those did to whom the living oracles were committed: they spoke as they were inspired by the Holy Ghost. Those, therefore, at Pontus, etc., who undertook to teach others, should speak by the same influence; or, if not under this immediate influence, should speak as or according to the oracles already delivered, grounding all their exhortations and doctrines on some portion of that revelation already given. This command is sent to every man upon earth in holy orders, in pretended holy orders, or pretending to holy orders. Their teaching should be what the oracles of God, the Holy Scriptures, teach and authenticate. Of the ability which God giveth - Perhaps the ministering here may refer to the care of the poor, and the ability is the quantum of means which God may have placed in their hands; and they are to minister this as coming immediately from God, and lead the minds of the poor to consider him as their benefactor, that he in all things may be glorified through Christ Jesus. This is implied in the essence of any charitable act: the actor is not the author, God is the author; and the poor man should be taught to consider him as his immediate benefactor. Those who give any thing as from themselves, rob God; for to him the praise for all good, and the dominion over all men and things, belong for ever and ever.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If any . . . speak--namely, as a prophet, or divinely taught teacher in the Church assembly. as the, &c.--The Greek has no article: "as oracles of God." This may be due to Greek: "God," having no article, it being a principle when a governed noun omits the Greek article that the governing noun should omit it, too. In Act 7:38 also, the Greek article is wanting; thus English Version, "as the oracles of God," namely, the Old Testament, would be "right," and the precept be similar to Rom 12:6, "prophesy according to the analogy of the faith." But the context suits better thus, "Let him speak as (becomes one speaking) oracles OF GOD." His divinely inspired words are not his own, but God's, and as a steward (Pe1 4:10) having them committed to him, he ought so to speak them. Jesus was the pattern in this respect (Mat 7:29; Joh 12:49; Joh 14:10; compare Paul, Co2 2:17). Note, the very same term as is applied in the only other passages where it occurs (Act 7:38; Rom 3:2; Heb 5:12), to the Old Testament inspired writings, is here predicated of the inspired words (the substance of which was afterwards committed to writing) of the New Testament prophets. minister--in acts; the other sphere of spiritual activity besides speaking. as of--"out of" the store of his "strength" (Greek, physical power in relation to outward service, rather than moral and intellectual "ability"; so in Mar 12:30). giveth--Greek, "supplieth"; originally said of a choragus, who supplied the chorus with all necessaries for performing their several parts. that God in all things may be glorified--the final end of all a Christian's acts. through Jesus Christ--the mediator through whom all our blessings come down to us, and also through whom all our praises ascend to God. Through Christ alone can God be glorified in us and our sayings and doings. to whom--Christ. be--Greek, "is." for ever and ever--Greek, "unto the ages of the ages."
John Gill Bible Commentary
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God,.... This is an application of the above general rule to a particular case, the public ministry of the word, for that is here meant: "if any man speak"; not in any manner, or on any subject; not in a private way, or about things natural and civil; but in public, and concerning divine things: "let him speak": this is rightly supplied in our translation; and in which it is supported and confirmed by the Syriac and Arabic versions, who both supply the same way: "as the oracles of God"; by which are meant the writings of the Old Testament, the sacred Scriptures; see Rom 3:2 so called, because they come from God, are breathed and spoken by him, and contain his mind and will, and are authoritative and infallible; and according to these he is to speak who speaks in public on divine subjects, both as to the matter and manner of his speech: the matter of it must be agreeably to the divinely inspired word of God, must be fetched out of it, and confirmed by it; and he is to speak every thing that is in it, and keep back nothing, but declare the whole counsel of God, and only what is in it, without mixing his own chaff, or the doctrines of men with it; and it should be spoken in a manner agreeably to it, not as the word of man, but as the word of God; and not in words which man's wisdom teacheth, but in the words of the Holy Ghost; and with all boldness, for so the Gospel ought to be spoken; and with all certainty and assurance, constantly affirming the things of it, for nothing is more sure than they are; and with all openness, plainness, and freedom, making truth manifest, laying it plain and open before men, as it ought to be; and that with all reverence and godly fear, which becomes both speaker and hearer. The apostle next proceeds to mention another case, to which the above rule is applicable; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth; that is, if any man minister in temporal things to the supply of the poor; if a private man, and in a private way, let him do it in proportion to his ability, as God has prospered him in the world; or if an officer of the church, a deacon; and which seems to be the sense, for so the word used signifies, if any man perform the office, or act the part of a deacon, let him do it according to what God, in his providence, has put into his hands; that is, of the church's stock, which he should minister with simplicity and cheerfulness. A like division of church offices into public preaching of the word, and ministering to the wants of the poor, is here made, as in Rom 12:6. The end of all this is, that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ; or by all means, as the Arabic version renders it; by all ways and methods proper; for the glory of God should be the principal view in every action of life: hence the Syriac version adds to the phrase, "in all things", for the sake of explanation, "which ye do"; by sobriety, by prayer, by watching unto it; by exercising fervent charity, and using hospitality one to another; by ministering the gift as it is received; by the public ministration of the word; and by supplying the wants of the poor, whether in a personal or in a church way: or in all gifts, whether private or public, temporal or spiritual; since they all come from God, and men are accountable to him for them; and therefore should be used so as to glorify him by them, and give him the glory of them; and not glory in them, as if not received from him: or in all the members of the church, whether officers, as pastors and deacons, or private Christians; all should so behave in their respective stations, as God may have glory: "through Jesus Christ": through whom all grace is communicated, by whom all gifts are bestowed, and by virtue of grace and strength received from him every good work is performed to the glory of God: to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever; meaning either to God the Father, from whom every good gift comes; who is the God of all grace, of whom, and through whom, and to whom, are all things; and therefore the praise and glory of all belongs to him; and who has the dominion over all creatures and things, and has the disposal of all in nature, providence, and grace: or to Jesus Christ, out of whose fulness manifold grace, grace for grace, is received; and who having ascended on high, has received gifts for men, and gives them to them, and so is worthy of all praise; and who, as God, has the kingdom of nature and providence equally with the Father, and, as Mediator, the kingdom of grace, the government of the church; and whose dominion will be from sea to sea, and from the rivers to the ends of the earth; and of whose kingdom there will be no end. Amen; so let it be, so shall it be.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:11 All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen: This doxology has led some to suggest that one original letter of Peter ended here and that another one was added to it. Doxologies in the New Testament do appear at the end of letters (Rom 16:25-27; Phil 4:20; Heb 13:21; 2 Pet 3:18; Jude 1:24-25), but also at the end of sections within letters (Rom 11:36; Gal 1:5; Eph 3:21; 1 Tim 1:17). Since there is no textual evidence for the existence of two separate letters, it is better to assume that this doxology marks the end of a major section of the letter.
1 Peter 4:11
Living for God’s Glory
10As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.11If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Ten Shekels and a Shirt (Full Sermon)
By Paris Reidhead2.3K50:58MAT 16:24ROM 11:361CO 6:191CO 10:312CO 5:15GAL 2:20PHP 1:20COL 3:171PE 4:11REV 4:11This sermon emphasizes the contrast between serving God for personal gain, like a Levite serving for 10 shekels and a shirt, and serving God for His glory. It challenges listeners to repent and surrender to God not for personal benefits but because He is worthy of love, obedience, and service. The story of the two young Moravians who sold themselves into slavery to reach slaves with the Gospel illustrates the selfless dedication to bring glory to God.
Living Hope Through the Resurrection
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K1:25:16ResurrectionMAT 4:4HEB 13:8JAS 1:21PE 1:71PE 2:211PE 4:111PE 5:7In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the hunger for God that he sees in America, particularly among the younger generation. He emphasizes the need for wisdom and guidance from fathers in the faith. The speaker expresses a desire for something greater in his generation and a dissatisfaction with spiritual stagnation. He shares a story about a meeting where God's presence was evident and encourages the congregation to seek a deeper experience with God.
(Church Leadership) 8. Speaking as God's Representative
By Zac Poonen1.8K59:52MAT 6:33LUK 9:23JHN 14:6ROM 12:31TI 4:162TI 2:151PE 4:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of speaking God's word effectively. He highlights the need to speak as the utterance of God, whether it is a short or long message. The speaker also emphasizes the balance between personal life and ministry, drawing inspiration from the example of Christ and scripture. He encourages listeners to be quick to hear and slow to speak, both in human relationships and in their relationship with God. The sermon emphasizes the fear and responsibility that comes with speaking for God and warns against wasting time with boring sermons that lack the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Sermon Substance
By Jim Cymbala1.8K42:09Sermon Preparation2CH 7:1MAT 22:37JHN 13:341CO 2:42TI 4:2JAS 1:221PE 4:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God. He encourages preachers to focus on delivering a message from God's word rather than relying on their own abilities or clever points. The speaker highlights the need for ministers to lead people into a love for the Bible, as it is through the word of God that individuals can draw near to God. He also warns against being incompetent ministers who seek attention or fail to feed the people spiritually. The sermon concludes with a reminder that preaching should be accompanied by a demonstration of the power of the Holy Spirit.
Audio Sermon: Ten Shekels and a Shirt
By Paris Reidhead1.2K51:16ROM 11:361CO 10:31GAL 2:20PHP 1:21COL 3:231PE 4:11This sermon delves into the story of Micah and the Levite from Judges Chapter 17, highlighting the danger of serving God for personal gain or utility rather than for His glory. It emphasizes the need for repentance not for personal benefit but because God deserves our worship and obedience. The speaker contrasts utilitarian Christianity with true devotion to God, urging listeners to surrender fully to Christ for His glory alone.
Dwelling in Ceiled Houses
By David Dalton1.2K35:33Family1KI 6:9ISA 55:2ISA 61:10MAT 5:16MAT 7:24JHN 17:171PE 4:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for individuals and the church as a whole to prioritize glorifying God rather than themselves. He highlights the importance of allowing the truth to prick our consciences and urges listeners to consider their ways. The preacher emphasizes the need for sacrificial giving and a shift towards spiritual thinking rather than being consumed by material possessions. He concludes by quoting Jesus, who instructs his disciples to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him.
Ten Shekels and a Shirt (Audio)
By Paris Reidhead92651:01MAT 16:24JHN 12:24ROM 11:361CO 6:191CO 10:31GAL 2:20PHP 1:21COL 3:231PE 4:11This sermon delves into the story of Micah and the Levite, highlighting the dangers of serving God for personal gain or benefits, rather than for His glory. It emphasizes the need for repentance and surrender to God, not for the sake of personal happiness or success, but because God deserves our worship and obedience. The speaker challenges listeners to abandon utilitarian Christianity and instead focus on glorifying God in all aspects of life.
Gravity and Gladness on Sunday Morning - Lesson 3a
By John Piper73438:14PSA 37:4HAB 3:17MAT 6:33JHN 15:5ROM 12:1PHP 4:41PE 4:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of relying on the grace of Christ moment by moment and consulting God's ways in our daily lives. He emphasizes the need for integrity and hard work, allowing the principles of Scripture to shape our actions. The speaker also explores the shift in worship practices from the Old Testament to the New Testament, highlighting the essence of worship as finding delight and satisfaction in God. He references Luke 12:33 to illustrate the concept of storing treasures in heaven through acts of love and selflessness.
Homiletics: Asking Questions of the Text - Part 6
By Tim Conway5172:54:44COL 3:172TI 2:152TI 4:1HEB 4:121PE 4:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of preaching the Word of God as the ultimate source of divine truth, rather than personal opinions, dreams, or the teachings of men. It encourages preachers to present theological dilemmas and thought-provoking questions to engage the minds of listeners and avoid spiritual slumber. The goal is to faithfully handle the Word of God, aiming to please the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Peoples Church, Toronto Am
By Richard Wurmbrand21356:19PersecutionMAT 6:331PE 4:11In this sermon, Pastor Richard Wernbrand shares his experiences of being imprisoned for 14 years in communist jails. He describes the harsh conditions they endured, including being kept in solitary confinement underground, without seeing sunlight or having access to books or writing materials. Despite the physical and emotional hardships, Pastor Wernbrand reflects on the power of silence in allowing him to hear and confront his past sins and lies. He emphasizes the importance of speaking as the oracles of God and encourages believers to know and live by the words of the Bible.
All Things Should Be Referred to God as Their Last End
By Thomas a Kempis0God as Our Ultimate PurposeThe Source of All GoodPSA 37:4PSA 100:4PRO 3:6MAT 6:33ROM 11:361CO 10:31PHP 4:19COL 3:17JAS 1:171PE 4:11Thomas a Kempis emphasizes that God must be the ultimate purpose of our lives to attain true blessing. He warns against the dangers of self-seeking and encourages believers to refer all things back to God, the source of all goodness. Acknowledging God as the giver of all gifts leads to a heart filled with grace, while seeking glory apart from Him results in distress. True joy and virtue come from recognizing that all good is from God, and we must return thanks to Him. Ultimately, divine love is the key to overcoming self-love and envy, leading to a life of true wisdom and joy in God alone.
The Gift of Prophecy
By G.W. North0Edification of the ChurchThe Gift of ProphecyPRO 9:1JOL 2:28ACT 2:17ROM 12:61CO 12:71CO 14:11CO 14:31EPH 4:111TH 5:201PE 4:11G.W. North emphasizes the paramount importance of the gift of Prophecy in the Church, asserting that it is the highest of spiritual gifts as indicated by the Apostle Paul. He explains that Prophecy serves as the foundational stream from which other gifts like Wisdom and Knowledge flow, and that it is essential for the edification of the Church. North argues that all believers are encouraged to prophesy, making it a common and vital practice during gatherings for worship. He highlights that the purpose of Prophecy is to build up the Church through words of comfort, guidance, and instruction. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a recognition of the significance of Prophecy in the life of the Church.
(Practical Discipleship) 4. Discipleship and Church Matters
By Zac Poonen0Church UnityDiscipleshipPRO 9:10MAT 18:18LUK 11:13JHN 13:351CO 3:111CO 12:8GAL 2:20HEB 3:13JAS 2:11PE 4:11Zac Poonen emphasizes that true discipleship cannot exist in isolation; it thrives in community within a local church where love and unity among believers are paramount. He highlights that the fear of the Lord is foundational for wisdom and church building, warning against the dangers of partiality and the need for spiritual gifts to edify the Body of Christ. Poonen illustrates the importance of self-judgment and the necessity of leaders who wield the 'sword' of God's Word to maintain purity and integrity in the church. He calls for a church that prioritizes fellowship over mere evangelism, ensuring that it is a safe haven for all believers. Ultimately, he urges disciples to seek spiritual gifts not for personal gain but to serve and bless others, reflecting the true nature of Christ's Body.
(Power From on High) 8. Power From on High
By A.B. Simpson0Power of the Holy SpiritWitnessing and EvangelismJHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 1:161CO 12:42CO 12:9GAL 5:22EPH 3:20PHP 4:132TI 1:71PE 4:11A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of receiving power from the Holy Spirit to fulfill the Great Commission, highlighting that human beings are inherently weak and in need of divine strength. He explains that this power is not merely an abstract force but the presence of the Holy Spirit, which enables believers to witness effectively and live transformed lives. Simpson illustrates how the early church exemplified this power through their character, love, and commitment to spreading the gospel, demonstrating that true power comes from obedience to God's will. He also discusses the importance of the Holy Spirit in guiding the church, providing supernatural gifts, and empowering believers to endure suffering for Christ's sake. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed baptism of the Holy Spirit to empower the church for effective service in these challenging times.
Epistle 122
By George Fox0Unity in ChristHumilityISA 40:31ZEC 2:13MRK 10:421CO 9:252TI 2:14JAS 1:191PE 4:11REV 3:18George Fox emphasizes the importance of purity and unity among believers, urging them to silence fleshly desires and avoid contention. He warns against striving for mastery and exercising lordship over one another, encouraging a humble mindset that focuses on God's will. Fox highlights that departing from purity leads to pride and division, while waiting on the Lord brings nourishment and glorifies God. He calls for believers to gather in humility, listen, and be cautious of contention, which can lead them away from the fear of the Lord.
God Claims All
By Andrew Murray0Surrender to GodGlorifying GodPSA 37:4PSA 86:9ISA 43:7ROM 11:361CO 10:31EPH 2:10PHP 2:13COL 3:171PE 4:11REV 4:11Andrew Murray emphasizes that all things originate from God and ultimately return to Him, underscoring that the chief purpose of humanity is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. He explains that glorifying God involves making known His glory and yielding ourselves as instruments for His will. By recognizing that everything is from and through God, our surrender becomes more natural, leading us to fulfill our purpose of glorifying Him. Murray encourages believers to minister with the strength God provides, ensuring that all glory is directed to Him through Jesus Christ.
All Things Are of Him
By Andrew Murray0Living for God's GloryGod's SovereigntyPSA 19:1ISA 43:7ACT 17:28ROM 11:361CO 10:31EPH 1:11PHP 2:10COL 1:161PE 4:11REV 4:11Andrew Murray emphasizes that all things originate from God, exist through His power, and are ultimately directed towards Him. He highlights that recognizing and living in accordance with this truth brings glory to God, which is the purpose of human existence. By acknowledging God's sovereignty and purpose, believers can find true blessedness and fulfillment in their lives. This understanding is essential for living a life that honors God and reflects His glory.
Evening Thoughts - May
By Octavius Winslow0FaithCommunion with ChristJHN 14:1ROM 8:16EPH 2:14HEB 6:111PE 4:11Octavius Winslow reflects on the profound relationship between believers and Christ, emphasizing that Jesus is our peace and the bridge that removes barriers between us and God. He warns against the walls of unbelief and sin that separate us from experiencing Christ's presence and love. Winslow highlights the importance of recognizing our need for Christ, especially in times of trial and suffering, and encourages believers to seek a deeper communion with Him. He reassures that despite our shortcomings, Christ remains steadfast, waiting to reveal Himself to us. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a renewed faith and reliance on the grace of God in our daily walk.
The Duty of a Pastor to His People.
By John Gill0Doctrinal IntegrityPastoral ResponsibilityMAT 25:29ACT 20:281CO 9:271TI 4:141TI 5:81TI 6:32TI 1:62TI 4:16JAS 5:201PE 4:11John Gill emphasizes the vital responsibilities of a pastor towards his congregation, urging them to take heed of themselves and their doctrine as outlined in 2 Timothy 4:16. He highlights the importance of self-care, doctrinal integrity, and the need for ministers to be exemplary in their conduct, as their actions significantly impact the spiritual well-being of their flock. Gill stresses that by adhering to these principles, pastors not only safeguard their own salvation but also play a crucial role in the salvation of those who hear them. The sermon serves as a solemn reminder of the weighty calling of pastoral ministry and the accountability that comes with it.
1 Peter 4:11
By John Gill0Glorifying GodPublic MinistryROM 3:2ROM 12:61CO 10:31EPH 3:20COL 3:231TI 4:132TI 4:2HEB 13:16JAS 1:171PE 4:11John Gill emphasizes the importance of speaking and ministering in accordance with God's word, urging that public ministry should reflect the authority and infallibility of the Scriptures. He explains that speakers must convey the whole counsel of God with boldness, clarity, and reverence, while ministers should serve according to their God-given abilities. The ultimate goal of all actions, whether in preaching or serving, is to glorify God through Jesus Christ. Gill concludes by affirming that all gifts and abilities come from God, and thus, all praise and dominion belong to Him.
All Things to Him
By Andrew Murray0Total SurrenderGlory Of GodPSA 115:1ISA 43:7MAT 5:16ROM 12:11CO 10:312CO 5:15EPH 3:20PHP 4:13COL 3:171PE 4:11Andrew Murray emphasizes that many Christians fail to recognize God's claim over every aspect of their lives, believing that living solely for His glory is unattainable. This misunderstanding stifles their prayers and efforts to seek a deeper relationship with God. He urges believers to seek the Holy Spirit's revelation of God's expectations for a Christian life, which includes giving Him glory and acknowledging His sovereignty. Without this understanding, they cannot fully embrace the call to dedicate all things to God. Ultimately, Murray calls for a transformation in how Christians view their lives in relation to God's glory.
Thine Is the Kingdom the Power and the Glory Forever
By Zac Poonen0Giving Glory to GodGod's AuthorityPower Of God1CH 29:11PSA 62:11PSA 112:7MAT 4:10MAT 6:13LUK 17:17ROM 11:36PHP 4:6COL 3:171PE 4:11Zac Poonen emphasizes the significance of the phrase 'Thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever' from the Lord's Prayer, explaining that it reflects God's ultimate authority, power, and the glory He deserves. He urges believers to submit to God's government in all aspects of life, including speech, finances, and time management, highlighting that true joy and peace come from accepting His authority. Poonen also stresses the importance of recognizing God's power to overcome fear and sinful habits, and the necessity of giving thanks and glory to God for all achievements, as everything we have is a result of His grace.
(3.) Gal_2:8 : "The Same Was Mighty in me."
By F.B. Meyer0Reliance on GodEmpowerment by ChristISA 40:29JHN 15:5ROM 8:312CO 12:9GAL 2:20EPH 3:20PHP 4:13COL 1:272TI 1:71PE 4:11F.B. Meyer emphasizes the transformative power of Christ working through individuals, as illustrated by Hudson Taylor's calling to evangelize inland China. He highlights that personal limitations do not hinder God's work, as it is Christ who empowers believers to fulfill their responsibilities. Meyer uses the analogy of a copper wire, which merely conveys the power of the battery, to illustrate how believers can be vessels for Christ's might. The message is clear: when we rely on Christ, we can accomplish great things despite our weaknesses.
An Instrument for God to Use
By A.W. Tozer0Being an Instrument for GodDependence on the Holy SpiritZEC 4:6JHN 15:5ACT 1:8ROM 12:61CO 12:42CO 3:5GAL 5:22EPH 3:20PHP 4:131PE 4:11A.W. Tozer emphasizes that to truly please God, one must be an instrument for His use, much like household appliances that require an external power source to function. He illustrates that without the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, even the most talented individuals in the church are ineffective in their roles. Tozer calls for a reliance not on natural gifts but on the dynamic power of God to energize and bless the work being done. He urges believers to seek effectiveness through surrendering to the Spirit's leading, rather than depending solely on their abilities. The sermon concludes with a prayer for deliverance from reliance on human gifts and a desire for God's power to flow through His people.
Preachers of Righteousness
By Art Katz0PreachingRighteousnessEZK 33:7MAT 5:14ROM 10:141CO 1:211TH 2:42TI 4:2HEB 4:12JAS 3:11PE 4:112PE 2:5Art Katz emphasizes the critical role of preachers of righteousness in delivering God's word, which should not be diluted to please audiences but should challenge and provoke spiritual maturity. He highlights the need for preachers to be vessels of divine truth, understanding that their messages carry eternal significance and require a response from the congregation. Katz warns against the worldly compromises that can dilute the preached word, urging both preachers and listeners to recognize the weight of their responsibilities in the proclamation of God's truth. He calls for a church environment that supports and nurtures true preaching, which often involves discomfort and a call to deeper faith. Ultimately, Katz stresses that the effectiveness of preaching lies in the authenticity and spiritual depth of the preacher, who must be willing to endure suffering and sacrifice for the sake of delivering God's message.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any man speak - In order to explain or enforce God's word, and edify his neighbor, let him do it as those did to whom the living oracles were committed: they spoke as they were inspired by the Holy Ghost. Those, therefore, at Pontus, etc., who undertook to teach others, should speak by the same influence; or, if not under this immediate influence, should speak as or according to the oracles already delivered, grounding all their exhortations and doctrines on some portion of that revelation already given. This command is sent to every man upon earth in holy orders, in pretended holy orders, or pretending to holy orders. Their teaching should be what the oracles of God, the Holy Scriptures, teach and authenticate. Of the ability which God giveth - Perhaps the ministering here may refer to the care of the poor, and the ability is the quantum of means which God may have placed in their hands; and they are to minister this as coming immediately from God, and lead the minds of the poor to consider him as their benefactor, that he in all things may be glorified through Christ Jesus. This is implied in the essence of any charitable act: the actor is not the author, God is the author; and the poor man should be taught to consider him as his immediate benefactor. Those who give any thing as from themselves, rob God; for to him the praise for all good, and the dominion over all men and things, belong for ever and ever.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If any . . . speak--namely, as a prophet, or divinely taught teacher in the Church assembly. as the, &c.--The Greek has no article: "as oracles of God." This may be due to Greek: "God," having no article, it being a principle when a governed noun omits the Greek article that the governing noun should omit it, too. In Act 7:38 also, the Greek article is wanting; thus English Version, "as the oracles of God," namely, the Old Testament, would be "right," and the precept be similar to Rom 12:6, "prophesy according to the analogy of the faith." But the context suits better thus, "Let him speak as (becomes one speaking) oracles OF GOD." His divinely inspired words are not his own, but God's, and as a steward (Pe1 4:10) having them committed to him, he ought so to speak them. Jesus was the pattern in this respect (Mat 7:29; Joh 12:49; Joh 14:10; compare Paul, Co2 2:17). Note, the very same term as is applied in the only other passages where it occurs (Act 7:38; Rom 3:2; Heb 5:12), to the Old Testament inspired writings, is here predicated of the inspired words (the substance of which was afterwards committed to writing) of the New Testament prophets. minister--in acts; the other sphere of spiritual activity besides speaking. as of--"out of" the store of his "strength" (Greek, physical power in relation to outward service, rather than moral and intellectual "ability"; so in Mar 12:30). giveth--Greek, "supplieth"; originally said of a choragus, who supplied the chorus with all necessaries for performing their several parts. that God in all things may be glorified--the final end of all a Christian's acts. through Jesus Christ--the mediator through whom all our blessings come down to us, and also through whom all our praises ascend to God. Through Christ alone can God be glorified in us and our sayings and doings. to whom--Christ. be--Greek, "is." for ever and ever--Greek, "unto the ages of the ages."
John Gill Bible Commentary
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God,.... This is an application of the above general rule to a particular case, the public ministry of the word, for that is here meant: "if any man speak"; not in any manner, or on any subject; not in a private way, or about things natural and civil; but in public, and concerning divine things: "let him speak": this is rightly supplied in our translation; and in which it is supported and confirmed by the Syriac and Arabic versions, who both supply the same way: "as the oracles of God"; by which are meant the writings of the Old Testament, the sacred Scriptures; see Rom 3:2 so called, because they come from God, are breathed and spoken by him, and contain his mind and will, and are authoritative and infallible; and according to these he is to speak who speaks in public on divine subjects, both as to the matter and manner of his speech: the matter of it must be agreeably to the divinely inspired word of God, must be fetched out of it, and confirmed by it; and he is to speak every thing that is in it, and keep back nothing, but declare the whole counsel of God, and only what is in it, without mixing his own chaff, or the doctrines of men with it; and it should be spoken in a manner agreeably to it, not as the word of man, but as the word of God; and not in words which man's wisdom teacheth, but in the words of the Holy Ghost; and with all boldness, for so the Gospel ought to be spoken; and with all certainty and assurance, constantly affirming the things of it, for nothing is more sure than they are; and with all openness, plainness, and freedom, making truth manifest, laying it plain and open before men, as it ought to be; and that with all reverence and godly fear, which becomes both speaker and hearer. The apostle next proceeds to mention another case, to which the above rule is applicable; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth; that is, if any man minister in temporal things to the supply of the poor; if a private man, and in a private way, let him do it in proportion to his ability, as God has prospered him in the world; or if an officer of the church, a deacon; and which seems to be the sense, for so the word used signifies, if any man perform the office, or act the part of a deacon, let him do it according to what God, in his providence, has put into his hands; that is, of the church's stock, which he should minister with simplicity and cheerfulness. A like division of church offices into public preaching of the word, and ministering to the wants of the poor, is here made, as in Rom 12:6. The end of all this is, that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ; or by all means, as the Arabic version renders it; by all ways and methods proper; for the glory of God should be the principal view in every action of life: hence the Syriac version adds to the phrase, "in all things", for the sake of explanation, "which ye do"; by sobriety, by prayer, by watching unto it; by exercising fervent charity, and using hospitality one to another; by ministering the gift as it is received; by the public ministration of the word; and by supplying the wants of the poor, whether in a personal or in a church way: or in all gifts, whether private or public, temporal or spiritual; since they all come from God, and men are accountable to him for them; and therefore should be used so as to glorify him by them, and give him the glory of them; and not glory in them, as if not received from him: or in all the members of the church, whether officers, as pastors and deacons, or private Christians; all should so behave in their respective stations, as God may have glory: "through Jesus Christ": through whom all grace is communicated, by whom all gifts are bestowed, and by virtue of grace and strength received from him every good work is performed to the glory of God: to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever; meaning either to God the Father, from whom every good gift comes; who is the God of all grace, of whom, and through whom, and to whom, are all things; and therefore the praise and glory of all belongs to him; and who has the dominion over all creatures and things, and has the disposal of all in nature, providence, and grace: or to Jesus Christ, out of whose fulness manifold grace, grace for grace, is received; and who having ascended on high, has received gifts for men, and gives them to them, and so is worthy of all praise; and who, as God, has the kingdom of nature and providence equally with the Father, and, as Mediator, the kingdom of grace, the government of the church; and whose dominion will be from sea to sea, and from the rivers to the ends of the earth; and of whose kingdom there will be no end. Amen; so let it be, so shall it be.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:11 All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen: This doxology has led some to suggest that one original letter of Peter ended here and that another one was added to it. Doxologies in the New Testament do appear at the end of letters (Rom 16:25-27; Phil 4:20; Heb 13:21; 2 Pet 3:18; Jude 1:24-25), but also at the end of sections within letters (Rom 11:36; Gal 1:5; Eph 3:21; 1 Tim 1:17). Since there is no textual evidence for the existence of two separate letters, it is better to assume that this doxology marks the end of a major section of the letter.