1 Peter 4:17
Verse
Context
Suffering as Christians
16But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.17For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God? 18And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
Sermons



Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Judgment must begin at the house of God - Our Lord had predicted that, previously to the destruction of Jerusalem, his own followers would have to endure various calamities; see Mat 24:9, Mat 24:21, Mat 24:22; Mar 13:12, Mar 13:13; Joh 16:2, etc. Here his true disciples are called the house or family of God. That the converted Jews suffered much from their own brethren, the zealots, or factions into which the Jews were at that time divided, needs little proof; and some interpreters think that this was in conformity to the purpose of God, (Mat 23:35 : That on you may come all the righteous blood shed from the foundation of the world), "that the Jewish Christians were to be involved in the general punishment; and that it was proper to begin at them as a part of the devoted Jewish nation, notwithstanding they were now become the house of God, because the justice of God would thereby be more illustriously displayed." See Macknight. But probably the word κριμα, which we here translate judgment, may mean no more than affliction and distress; for it was a Jewish maxim that, when God was about to pour down some general judgment, he began with afflicting his own people in order to correct and amend them, that they might be prepared for the overflowing scourge. In Bava Kama, fol. 60, 1, we have the same sentiment, and in nearly the same words, as in Peter, viz.: "God never punishes the world but because of the wicked, but he always begins with the righteous first. The destroyer makes no difference between the just and the unjust, only he begins first with the righteous." See Eze 9:1-7, where God orders the destroyer to slay both old and young in the city: But, said he, begin at my sanctuary. And if it first begin at us - Jews, who have repented, and believed on the Son of God; what shall the end be of them - the Jews who continue impenitent, and obey not the Gospel of God? Here is the plainest reference to the above Jewish maxim; and this, it appears, was founded upon the text which St. Peter immediately quotes.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Another ground of consolation to Christians. All must pass under the judgment of God; God's own household first, their chastisement being here, for which they should glorify Him as a proof of their membership in His family, and a pledge of their escape from the end of those whom the last judgment shall find disobedient to the Gospel. the time--Greek, "season," "fit time." judgment must begin at the house of God--the Church of living believers. Peter has in mind Eze 9:6; compare Amo 3:2; Jer 25:29. Judgment is already begun, the Gospel word, as a "two-edged sword," having the double effect of saving some and condemning others, and shall be consummated at the last judgment. "When power is given to the destroyer, he observes no distinction between the righteous and the wicked; not only so, but he begins first at the righteous" [WETSTEIN from Rabbins]. But God limits the destroyer's power over His people. if . . . at us, what shall the end be of them, &c.--If even the godly have chastening judgments now, how much more shall the ungodly be doomed to damnatory judgments at last. gospel of God--the very God who is to judge them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God,.... By the house of God is either meant the temple at Jerusalem, which is often so called, because it was built for God, and where were the symbol of his presence, and his worship; and now the time was come, or at hand, that God would begin at his sanctuary, and leave this house desolate, and not one stone should be left upon another, as Christ had foretold: or else the church of God, which is frequently called the house of God, because it is of his building, where he dwells, and grants his gracious presence, and which he beautifies, fills, repairs, and defends; and so may design believers in Christ, those that are of the household and family of God: and by judgment is meant, not punishment for sin, strictly speaking, because Christ has endured this in the room and stead of his church and people, and therefore in justice cannot be inflicted on them; but afflictions and persecutions, and which are fatherly chastisements, and different from God's judgment on the world, and condemnation with it; see Co1 11:32 and these may be said to "begin" with them, because it is only in this life the saints have their afflictions; and which are in love to them, and therefore are early brought upon them to try them, and purge them, and make them partakers of his holiness: besides, wicked men are often made use of as instruments, by which God chastises his people; upon which account they are reserved till last, to be the objects of his vengeance, when they have filled up the measure of their sins; and then what is begun in love at the house of God, will end in wrath and severe punishment on them: and whereas it is said, "the time" is come, or at hand, it may be observed, that as God has his set time to favour his Zion, so likewise to chastise her; all his people's times are in his hand, as of comfort, so of temptation, affliction, and persecution. The first times of Christianity, or of the preaching of the Gospel, were times of trouble and distress; for as it was necessary the Gospel should be confirmed by signs and wonders, so that it should be tried and proved by the sufferings of the saints for it: and the phrase also suggests, that these sufferings and afflictions were but for a time, and even as it were for a moment, for a little while; and is a reason why the saints should glorify God, as these words imply, being introduced with the causal particle, "for"; that they have their sufferings now, and not with the wicked in the world to come, which will have no end: and if it first begin at us; either us Jews, for Peter, and those he writes to, were such; or us Christians, who believe in Christ, have embraced his Gospel, and profess his name: what shall the end be of them that obey not the Gospel of God? of which God is the author, and which contains things relating to him; as the grace of God, the righteousness of God, peace with him, pardon from him, justification before him, and acceptance with him; and which he commits to men, and qualifies them for preaching it, and succeeds the ministry of it; and it being his Gospel, as it makes it the more valuable in itself, so it is to be had in the greatest reverence and esteem; and the greater is the sin of such who despise and reject it, as did the unbelieving Jews, who seem chiefly designed, here; it was first preached to them, but they disbelieved the doctrines of it, and submitted not to its ordinances, and rejected Christ, the Saviour, the sum and substance of it; and put it away from them, judging themselves unworthy of everlasting life: and what shall the end of such be? in this world wrath came upon them to the uttermost, ruin upon their nation, city, and temple; and in the world to come everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and eternal vengeance in flames of fire. The Jews have various phrases, and frequent expressions in their writings, which resemble these, and serve to illustrate them. When Noah told the old world of the flood, and called upon them to repent, they are represented as saying to him (o), "where does punishment begin? , "at the house" of that man does it "begin?" when Methuselah died, they said unto him, does not punishment begin at the house of that man?'' and elsewhere (p), says R. Jonathan, "punishment does not come into the world, but in the time that the wicked are in the world; and it does not begin (i.e. at them) , but it begins at the righteous;'' and again (q). "when God executes judgment on the righteous, he is praised; for if he executes this on them, how much more on the ungodly?'' see Isa 10:11. (o) Midrash Kohelet, fol. 79. 4. (p) T. Bab. Bava Kama, fol. 60. 1. Caphtor, fol. 70. 2. (q) Jarchi in Numb. 179. apud Grotium in loc.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:17 God’s judgment is often pictured as beginning with God’s household—i.e., with his own people—as a means of purifying them (Jer 25:29; Ezek 9:5-6; Mal 3:1-6).
1 Peter 4:17
Suffering as Christians
16But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.17For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God? 18And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Why Does the Holy Spirit Not Fill the Church
By A.W. Tozer5.8K39:09Holy SpiritGEN 6:5GEN 6:11MAT 5:28MAT 7:21ACT 2:171TI 6:171PE 4:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of judgment and the need for it in order to save humanity. He explains that God saw the moral corruption that had spread throughout mankind and decided to send a judgment in the form of a flood to destroy the corruption and save a few righteous individuals. The preacher emphasizes the importance of taking judgment seriously, as everyone will eventually face judgment for their actions. He concludes by sharing a story about a physician who sometimes has to amputate a limb in order to save the patient's life, highlighting the necessity of removing that which could be deadly.
The Overcoming Saint
By B.H. Clendennen4.6K1:10:51OvercomingMAT 6:33MAT 21:13JHN 2:13ACT 2:421CO 6:191PE 4:17REV 12:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for the church to rise up and be a representation of Christ in the world. He criticizes the idea of trying to produce something spiritual through worldly means, stating that it only leads to empty results. The preacher highlights the importance of overcoming Satan and emphasizes that the weapon of the overcoming saints is the word of their testimony. He also speaks about the need for the church to have a vision of God's purpose and to be filled with the Holy Spirit in order to produce unity and effectively meet the needs of the world.
(The Word for Today) Isaiah 14:12 - Part 3
By Chuck Smith4.1K25:59ExpositionalGEN 3:5ISA 14:12MAT 6:331PE 4:17In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the importance of standing up for righteousness in a fallen world. He uses the example of Daniel, a young man who took a stand for God even when it could have cost him his life. Pastor Chuck encourages young adults between the ages of 12 and 20 to resist compromise and prepare for the Lord's coming. He also introduces his new book, "Standing Up in a Fallen World," which provides guidance and encouragement for today's generation.
Gleanings From the Garden - Part 1
By Art Katz3.6K1:16:42Garden Of EdenPSA 41:9PRO 27:6MAT 7:211CO 5:6EPH 4:152TI 3:51PE 4:17In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of engaging in conversations with students at a university. The speaker emphasizes the importance of engaging in discussions about ultimate questions and values. The sermon also touches on the influence of media and the need to be discerning about what we consume. The speaker highlights the prophetic dilemma of having to confront and offend, but also emphasizes the universal nature of the condition that needs to be addressed in contemporary Christendom.
K-197 the Anatomy of Sin Part One
By Art Katz2.8K1:29:54Sin1SA 15:22PSA 19:13MAT 7:21ROM 8:71CO 5:121PE 4:17REV 2:5In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of removing a television from their home due to the negative influence it had on their children. They emphasize the importance of not being swayed by worldly values and instead focusing on the foundation of sin, judgment, and redemption. The speaker also discusses the audience's reaction to talks about the Holocaust, noting a reluctance to fully accept and embrace the judgments of God. They then mention the theologian Karl Barth and his profound insights on sin, judgment, and redemption, which are not widely known or appreciated in the evangelical community. The sermon concludes with a challenge to truly understand and confront the nature of sin.
Voices From Hell Speaking to America - Part 2
By Alan Cairns2.8K08:572CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 59:19EZK 32:17JOL 2:28MAT 24:14EPH 6:121PE 4:17REV 2:20This sermon emphasizes the need for a visitation of the Spirit of God in the midst of corruption and wickedness, calling for prophetic voices to speak truth and uphold the gospel. It highlights the importance of recognizing the fundamental spiritual warfare of our day and engaging in prayer for a sweeping visitation of God's Spirit across the nation and the world.
3) Ministry From Spring Harvest - Chapter 5
By George Verwer2.2K56:59FailureECC 3:1DAN 4:37MAT 6:331CO 6:192CO 4:71PE 4:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of understanding the book of Daniel and the changes that Daniel and his followers had to face. The speaker warns against complacency and emphasizes the need to be prepared for future challenges. The sermon also touches on the influence of Daniel's holiness and the impact of his prayers. The speaker notes that there are not many books on prayer because it is not of great interest to the average Christian, but emphasizes its importance in the Christian life.
Turning the Tide - Part 3
By Charles Stanley1.8K08:392CH 7:14PSA 33:12PRO 14:34JAS 5:161PE 4:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of upholding the biblical view of marriage as between a husband and a wife, highlighting the consequences of straying from God's design. It also addresses the correlation between societal wickedness and disasters, urging believers to humble themselves, pray, seek God's face, and turn from wickedness to bring about healing and restoration. The call to prayer for the nation is extended, emphasizing the need for righteousness and obedience to accompany fervent intercession for lasting change.
Temptation of Christ
By William Fitch1.8K29:20JHN 16:331CO 15:57EPH 6:122TI 3:16JAS 4:41PE 4:171JN 3:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for wholehearted obedience to Christ in the midst of tragic and dark times. The church is called to be purified and judgment should begin within the house of God. The sermon highlights the enmity between loving the world and worshiping the God of this world, which leads to bondage and defeat. The preacher also reminds the church that Jesus has overcome the prince of this world, but many Christians struggle because they haven't fully surrendered to God. The sermon encourages the church to remember that behind the allure of the world is the prince of this world, and it is his temptation to turn believers away from God.
Span-04 Apostolic & Prophetic Foundations 1 of 8
By Art Katz1.7K1:30:26Prophetic Foundations1SA 3:101KI 17:11KI 18:21MAT 6:33EPH 3:212TI 2:151PE 4:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of waiting for the word of God before speaking, acting, or confronting others. They challenge the conventional wisdom of success in the church and encourage deep intercession and prayer for those who have a calling to bring forth the word of God. The speaker identifies those who may have a calling but have not recognized it yet, urging them to walk in it for the benefit of their nation and church. They also discuss the significance of the Elijah ministry and the need for reconciliation between fathers and sons. The sermon concludes with the speaker expressing the profound impact of this message and its potential to reach beyond the audience to many nations worldwide.
Jap-04 True Fellowship
By Art Katz1.7K55:43JapaneseLEV 11:44PSA 24:7MAT 16:24JHN 4:241CO 14:262CO 3:18HEB 10:19JAS 5:161PE 4:171JN 1:7In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of feeling burdened and convicted to confess their faults in church. They emphasize the importance of confession in building a true community and moving from an institutional mindset to a more authentic church experience. The speaker encourages everyone, including ministers, women, and single men, to form small groups and confess their faults to one another. The ultimate goal is to open the gates for the King of Glory to enter and bring about transformation and holiness in the church.
The Failure of Modern Christianity - 3
By Zacharias Tanee Fomum1.6K3:49:09Modern ChristianityISA 53:5MAT 8:161PE 4:17In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of a young man who squandered his inheritance on a life of sin and pleasure. Eventually, he finds himself in a desperate situation, feeding pigs and longing for their food. When he decides to return to his father, he is met with unexpected love and forgiveness. The preacher emphasizes the unconditional love of God and encourages the audience to take a step towards God, knowing that He is always ready to receive and forgive.
Purified by Leonard Ravenhill
By Compilations1.5K07:18EXO 28:15PRO 10:20MAL 3:161CO 3:121CO 4:52TI 2:20JAS 4:81PE 1:71PE 4:17REV 20:12This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life devoted to God, comparing the value of our actions and words to wood, hay, stubble, silver, gold, and precious stones. It challenges believers to invest in what truly matters, such as devotion to God, purity in speech, and a deep prayer life, rather than seeking worldly entertainment or approval. The speaker highlights the accountability every individual will face before God, urging a commitment to a life that reflects true holiness and dedication to Christ.
Cranbrook Fellowship 2000 Tape 3 (Middle Portion With Song at End)
By George Warnock1.5K40:06SeminarISA 62:1MAL 4:6GAL 5:22HEB 3:151PE 4:172PE 1:4REV 5:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of responding to God's visitation and not hardening our hearts. He highlights the need for gratitude for past blessings and anticipation for future ones. The preacher also emphasizes the significance of reconciliation among believers as a precursor to revival. He uses the analogy of a wheat field to illustrate the process of growth and maturity in the spiritual realm. Ultimately, the preacher emphasizes the need for the church to be prepared and to radiate the same light that was in Jesus to bring forth salvation to all nations.
(Divine Attributes) 11 the Righteous Judgment of Almighty God
By Denny Kenaston1.4K57:43Character Of GodMAT 6:33ROM 1:18ROM 2:51CO 3:132CO 5:111PE 4:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of judgment and the role of a judge in a court of law. He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and facing the consequences. The preacher also highlights the idea that judgment begins in the house of God, as mentioned in Corinthians and Peter. He references the book of Romans to illustrate God's righteous judgment and the importance of recognizing God's holiness.
(Romans) Problems and Pictures
By Willie Mullan1.4K57:23ProblemsISA 53:1MAT 6:33ACT 5:29ROM 10:14ROM 10:161PE 4:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses four questions posed by Paul in the Bible. The questions revolve around the importance of belief, hearing, and preaching the word of God. The preacher emphasizes the logical impossibilities of rejecting the message of God, which is the gospel of Christ crucified. He urges the listeners to not ignore or reject this good news, as it is the power of the Holy Spirit that brings faith and salvation. The sermon concludes with a warning about the consequences of disregarding the message of God and a call to repentance.
The Holiness of God - Part 2
By Art Katz1.3K41:13Holiness Of GodLEV 11:44JHN 10:10ACT 17:28ROM 1:18ROM 11:33HEB 12:61PE 4:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being still and knowing that God is in control. He encourages believers to eliminate distractions and seek the knowledge of the holy. The speaker emphasizes that holiness is our life and that we should strive to know God deeply and intimately. He challenges believers to meditate on the holiness of God and to reflect His purity in their actions. Ultimately, the speaker reminds listeners that the world needs the reality of God, and believers can mediate that reality by dwelling in it and knowing their God.
American Church Buffet
By E.A. Johnston1.2K15:31American ChurchPSA 51:17HOS 1:2MAT 21:13LUK 14:23ACT 20:27ROM 3:231PE 4:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for the church to return to a pure message of the Gospel and to forsake worldly practices. He criticizes the inclusion of yoga, Zumba dancing, and worldly entertainment in churches, calling them idols and spiritual harlotry. The preacher warns that the American church has sold itself to the world and urges pastors to awaken the church from its spiritual slumber. He references Hosea chapter 4 to illustrate how the Jews departed from God and suffered judgment as a result. The preacher concludes by expressing his disgust with the state of many churches and calling for a return to true worship.
The Church of Laodicea
By Annie Poonen1.1K1:03:59MAT 13:46LUK 9:231CO 11:311PE 4:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, humility, and seeking God's forgiveness to avoid becoming lukewarm in our faith. It highlights the need to constantly judge ourselves, forgive others, and maintain discipline in various aspects of our lives to stay on fire for the Lord. The speaker shares personal experiences and reflections on how to overcome lukewarmness by focusing on God's grace, seeking the filling of the Holy Spirit daily, and cultivating a selfless and unselfish attitude like Christ.
Do Watchman Roar or Meow
By Scott Hynds1.1K34:33WatchmenDEU 6:17MAT 7:24MAT 24:42MAT 25:23LUK 18:131PE 4:17REV 2:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the word of God boldly and urgently. He uses the analogy of a tsunami approaching to illustrate the need for warning others about the impending judgment of God. The preacher highlights the role of the watchman, who is constantly vigilant and ready to sound the alarm. He references the biblical passage in Ezekiel where God appoints the prophet as a watchman to warn the people of Israel. The sermon emphasizes the responsibility of believers to proclaim the message of God's judgment and salvation to those around them.
Thoughts on That Judgment Day by Leonard Ravenhill
By Compilations88607:05PSA 51:17MAL 3:16MAT 12:36MAT 25:212CO 5:10PHP 3:20COL 3:2JAS 4:10JAS 4:141PE 4:17This sermon emphasizes the need for believers to have a deep revelation of the majesty of God and the accountability they will face at the judgment seat of Christ. It challenges the church to return to a place of true devotion, prayer, and obedience, living with eternity's values in view and being willing to be transformed by God's presence.
It's Clean-Up Time in the Church
By Philip Powell85458:08HEB 9:27HEB 12:12HEB 12:141PE 4:171JN 3:11JN 3:3In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing 1 Peter 4:17, which emphasizes the importance of not suffering as wrongdoers but rather as Christians who glorify God. The preacher then references a talk by John Jamison, the ex-commissioner of police, who highlighted the goal of the church as knowing Christ and making Him known to others. The sermon then shifts to John 14:6, a verse associated with Billy Graham, which declares Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. The preacher also mentions Hebrews 12:14, which encourages believers to pursue peace and holiness in order to see the Lord.
9) the Wisdom of Judging Oneself (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen77642:091PE 4:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of unity and lack of competition or jealousy within the church body. It highlights the need for self-reflection, judging oneself instead of others, and striving for a spirit of humility and love. The speaker encourages constant self-assessment, acknowledging that God knows our hearts and motives, and urges believers to focus on personal growth and obedience to God's word.
Built Together in Christ's Body
By Zac Poonen5911:07:211KI 6:7ISA 2:22ACT 20:28PHP 2:191PE 4:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of building fellowship and unity in the body of Christ, drawing parallels to the construction of Solomon's temple where stones were shaped in the quarry before being brought together seamlessly. It highlights the need for believers to judge themselves privately, allowing God to shape and cleanse them, so they can fit perfectly with others in the church without the sound of clash or division. The message encourages individuals to seek Christ's interests above their own, to work towards a harmonious and united church.
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit Makes Us Bold
By Sandeep Poonen58849:192CH 29:342CH 30:26ISA 50:4ACT 2:41EPH 4:162TI 1:7JAS 1:51PE 4:172PE 2:5REV 1:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of consecrating ourselves daily to God, seeking to be disciples who listen to His voice, respond to His leading, and contribute to the growth of the body of Christ. It highlights the need for boldness against the religious system within us, the world system around us, and the call to be preachers of righteousness like Noah, building the 'ark' of the local church. The message stresses the significance of power, love, and self-control as fruits of the Holy Spirit, encouraging each individual to play a part in the body's growth by being conscientious in consecrating themselves daily.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Judgment must begin at the house of God - Our Lord had predicted that, previously to the destruction of Jerusalem, his own followers would have to endure various calamities; see Mat 24:9, Mat 24:21, Mat 24:22; Mar 13:12, Mar 13:13; Joh 16:2, etc. Here his true disciples are called the house or family of God. That the converted Jews suffered much from their own brethren, the zealots, or factions into which the Jews were at that time divided, needs little proof; and some interpreters think that this was in conformity to the purpose of God, (Mat 23:35 : That on you may come all the righteous blood shed from the foundation of the world), "that the Jewish Christians were to be involved in the general punishment; and that it was proper to begin at them as a part of the devoted Jewish nation, notwithstanding they were now become the house of God, because the justice of God would thereby be more illustriously displayed." See Macknight. But probably the word κριμα, which we here translate judgment, may mean no more than affliction and distress; for it was a Jewish maxim that, when God was about to pour down some general judgment, he began with afflicting his own people in order to correct and amend them, that they might be prepared for the overflowing scourge. In Bava Kama, fol. 60, 1, we have the same sentiment, and in nearly the same words, as in Peter, viz.: "God never punishes the world but because of the wicked, but he always begins with the righteous first. The destroyer makes no difference between the just and the unjust, only he begins first with the righteous." See Eze 9:1-7, where God orders the destroyer to slay both old and young in the city: But, said he, begin at my sanctuary. And if it first begin at us - Jews, who have repented, and believed on the Son of God; what shall the end be of them - the Jews who continue impenitent, and obey not the Gospel of God? Here is the plainest reference to the above Jewish maxim; and this, it appears, was founded upon the text which St. Peter immediately quotes.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Another ground of consolation to Christians. All must pass under the judgment of God; God's own household first, their chastisement being here, for which they should glorify Him as a proof of their membership in His family, and a pledge of their escape from the end of those whom the last judgment shall find disobedient to the Gospel. the time--Greek, "season," "fit time." judgment must begin at the house of God--the Church of living believers. Peter has in mind Eze 9:6; compare Amo 3:2; Jer 25:29. Judgment is already begun, the Gospel word, as a "two-edged sword," having the double effect of saving some and condemning others, and shall be consummated at the last judgment. "When power is given to the destroyer, he observes no distinction between the righteous and the wicked; not only so, but he begins first at the righteous" [WETSTEIN from Rabbins]. But God limits the destroyer's power over His people. if . . . at us, what shall the end be of them, &c.--If even the godly have chastening judgments now, how much more shall the ungodly be doomed to damnatory judgments at last. gospel of God--the very God who is to judge them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God,.... By the house of God is either meant the temple at Jerusalem, which is often so called, because it was built for God, and where were the symbol of his presence, and his worship; and now the time was come, or at hand, that God would begin at his sanctuary, and leave this house desolate, and not one stone should be left upon another, as Christ had foretold: or else the church of God, which is frequently called the house of God, because it is of his building, where he dwells, and grants his gracious presence, and which he beautifies, fills, repairs, and defends; and so may design believers in Christ, those that are of the household and family of God: and by judgment is meant, not punishment for sin, strictly speaking, because Christ has endured this in the room and stead of his church and people, and therefore in justice cannot be inflicted on them; but afflictions and persecutions, and which are fatherly chastisements, and different from God's judgment on the world, and condemnation with it; see Co1 11:32 and these may be said to "begin" with them, because it is only in this life the saints have their afflictions; and which are in love to them, and therefore are early brought upon them to try them, and purge them, and make them partakers of his holiness: besides, wicked men are often made use of as instruments, by which God chastises his people; upon which account they are reserved till last, to be the objects of his vengeance, when they have filled up the measure of their sins; and then what is begun in love at the house of God, will end in wrath and severe punishment on them: and whereas it is said, "the time" is come, or at hand, it may be observed, that as God has his set time to favour his Zion, so likewise to chastise her; all his people's times are in his hand, as of comfort, so of temptation, affliction, and persecution. The first times of Christianity, or of the preaching of the Gospel, were times of trouble and distress; for as it was necessary the Gospel should be confirmed by signs and wonders, so that it should be tried and proved by the sufferings of the saints for it: and the phrase also suggests, that these sufferings and afflictions were but for a time, and even as it were for a moment, for a little while; and is a reason why the saints should glorify God, as these words imply, being introduced with the causal particle, "for"; that they have their sufferings now, and not with the wicked in the world to come, which will have no end: and if it first begin at us; either us Jews, for Peter, and those he writes to, were such; or us Christians, who believe in Christ, have embraced his Gospel, and profess his name: what shall the end be of them that obey not the Gospel of God? of which God is the author, and which contains things relating to him; as the grace of God, the righteousness of God, peace with him, pardon from him, justification before him, and acceptance with him; and which he commits to men, and qualifies them for preaching it, and succeeds the ministry of it; and it being his Gospel, as it makes it the more valuable in itself, so it is to be had in the greatest reverence and esteem; and the greater is the sin of such who despise and reject it, as did the unbelieving Jews, who seem chiefly designed, here; it was first preached to them, but they disbelieved the doctrines of it, and submitted not to its ordinances, and rejected Christ, the Saviour, the sum and substance of it; and put it away from them, judging themselves unworthy of everlasting life: and what shall the end of such be? in this world wrath came upon them to the uttermost, ruin upon their nation, city, and temple; and in the world to come everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and eternal vengeance in flames of fire. The Jews have various phrases, and frequent expressions in their writings, which resemble these, and serve to illustrate them. When Noah told the old world of the flood, and called upon them to repent, they are represented as saying to him (o), "where does punishment begin? , "at the house" of that man does it "begin?" when Methuselah died, they said unto him, does not punishment begin at the house of that man?'' and elsewhere (p), says R. Jonathan, "punishment does not come into the world, but in the time that the wicked are in the world; and it does not begin (i.e. at them) , but it begins at the righteous;'' and again (q). "when God executes judgment on the righteous, he is praised; for if he executes this on them, how much more on the ungodly?'' see Isa 10:11. (o) Midrash Kohelet, fol. 79. 4. (p) T. Bab. Bava Kama, fol. 60. 1. Caphtor, fol. 70. 2. (q) Jarchi in Numb. 179. apud Grotium in loc.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:17 God’s judgment is often pictured as beginning with God’s household—i.e., with his own people—as a means of purifying them (Jer 25:29; Ezek 9:5-6; Mal 3:1-6).