1 Peter 4:8
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Have fervent charity - Αγαπην εκτενη· Intense love; for love shall cover a multitude of sins. A loving disposition leads us to pass by the faults of others, to forgive offenses against ourselves, and to excuse and lessen, as far as is consistent with truth, the transgressions of men. It does not mean that our love to others will induce God to pardon our offenses. See the note on Jam 5:20.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
above all things--not that "charity" or love is placed above "prayer," but because love is the animating spirit, without which all other duties are dead. Translate as Greek, "Having your mutual (literally, 'towards yourselves') charity intense." He presupposes its existence among them; he urges them to make it more fervent. charity shall cover the multitude, &c.--The oldest manuscripts have "covereth." Quoted from Pro 10:12; compare Pro 17:9. "Covereth" so as not harshly to condemn or expose faults; but forbearingly to bear the other's burdens, forgiving and forgetting past offenses. Perhaps the additional idea is included, By prayer for them, love tries to have them covered by God; and so being the instrument of converting the sinner from his error, "covereth a (not 'the,' as English Version) multitude of sins"; but the former idea from Proverbs is the prominent one. It is not, as Rome teaches, "covereth" his own sins; for then the Greek middle voice would be used; and Pro 10:12; Pro 17:9 support the Protestant view. "As God with His love covers my sins if I believe, so must I also cover the sins of my neighbor" [LUTHER]. Compare the conduct of Shem and Japheth to Noah (Gen 9:23), in contrast to Ham's exposure of his father's shame. We ought to cover others' sins only where love itself does not require the contrary.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves,.... Not but that charity, or love, is to be exercised towards all men, even towards enemies, but more especially towards the saints, and that under such a consideration in which it cannot be exercised towards others; namely, as their brethren in Christ, and as belonging to him, as the children of God, as redeemed by Christ, and sanctified by the Spirit; and these not only such as are of the same nation, and belong to the same particular church and community, or of the same denomination, but all the saints everywhere, whether Jews or Gentiles, or of whatsoever name, and in whatsoever state and condition: and this love ought to be mutual and reciprocal, and to be warm and fervent, and not lukewarm and indifferent, as it too often is; and should be constant, "continued", and "perpetual", as the Vulgate Latin and Arabic versions here read: and this the apostle exhorts to above all things else; since outward sobriety, and watchings, and prayer, and all other duties, are nothing without this; this is the sum and substance of the law, and the fulfilling of it; and without this a mere knowledge of the Gospel, and a profession of it, are in vain, and therefore in the first place to be attended to. And especially for the following reason, for charity shall cover the multitude of sins; referring to Pro 10:12 not a man's own sins, but the sins of others; and not from the sight of God, for from that only the blood and righteousness of Christ cover sins, even all the sins, the whole multitude of the sins of God's elect; but from the sight of men, both of those against whom they are committed, and others; since charity, or true love, thinks no ill, but puts the best constructions upon the words and actions of fellow Christians, and does not take them up, and improve and exaggerate them, but lets them lie buried in oblivion: it takes no notice of injuries, offences, and affronts, but overlooks them, bears with them, and forgives them, so that they are never raked up, and seen any more; which prevents much scandal, strife, and trouble. The Alexandrian copy, and some others, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions, read, "covereth", as in Pro 10:12.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:8 By its nature, love overlooks sins committed against us by others (see Prov 10:12; Matt 18:21-22; 1 Cor 13:4-7). Peter might also mean that our attitude of love, because it displays our relationship with Christ, covers our own sins and causes them to be forgiven (see Luke 7:47).
1 Peter 4:8
Living for God’s Glory
7The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and sober, so that you can pray. 8Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.9Show hospitality to one another without complaining.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Four Loves
By C.S. Lewis12K00:29Types of LoveLoveChristian LoveMAT 22:37JHN 15:13ROM 13:101CO 13:4GAL 5:22EPH 5:25COL 3:141PE 4:81JN 3:161JN 4:7C.S. Lewis explores the concept of love through the lens of the four Greek words: Storge, which represents familial affection; Philia, the bond of friendship; Eros, the romantic love between partners; and Agape, the selfless, unconditional love that reflects God's love for humanity and the love Christians should have for one another. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these different types of love in our relationships and spiritual lives.
Paul's Hymn of Love
By J. Oswald Sanders3.3K22:18LoveEXO 14:13MAT 6:33ROM 12:211CO 13:11PE 4:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of love and patience in our lives. He uses examples from the Bible, such as Peter's question about forgiveness, to illustrate the need for patience and forgiveness towards others. The speaker also discusses the significance of love as the motive behind our actions, stating that even the greatest sacrifices are meaningless without love. He concludes by highlighting the characteristics of love, particularly its ability to refrain from certain actions, and encourages listeners to cultivate a patient and loving attitude in their lives.
Beyond the Surface
By Jim Cymbala2.2K37:02Christian LifeMAT 6:33JAS 1:26JAS 2:14JAS 3:61PE 4:81JN 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living out one's faith and the impact it should have on a person's life. He warns against the deception that can come from religious routines and urges listeners to wake up and truly experience salvation. The preacher highlights the corrupt values of the world and encourages believers not to conform to them, but to live according to God's values. He also emphasizes the need to care for the vulnerable, such as orphans and widows, as a demonstration of true religion that God accepts.
Do Everything Out of Love
By Arno Stegen2.1K47:08LoveMAT 22:39JHN 13:34ROM 13:101CO 16:14GAL 5:221PE 4:81JN 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of doing everything out of love, as God himself is love. He highlights that without God, our actions are irrelevant. The preacher encourages the congregation to walk in love, just as Christ did, and to have the same love that He had. The sermon also addresses the tests of love, such as being kind, not being jealous, not bragging or being arrogant, and not seeking one's own interests. The preacher reminds the listeners that love does not keep a record of wrongs and encourages them to live a life that is a sweet aroma to God and a blessing to others.
(The Word for Today) Isaiah 23:1 - Part 1
By Chuck Smith1.8K25:59ExpositionalPSA 27:1PRO 22:6ISA 23:1ISA 23:15MAT 6:33JHN 8:121PE 4:8The video begins by discussing the importance of family and the breakdown of the family unit in society. It introduces Pastor Chuck Smith's Marriage and Family Bible Study as a resource to help families maintain love and unity. The video then transitions to a prayer, emphasizing the need to focus on eternal values and treasures in heaven. It concludes by mentioning Pastor Chuck's ongoing study through the book of Isaiah and the hope and light that comes from walking in the light of Jesus Christ.
Forgiveness - Part 9
By Keith Daniel1.5K09:30PSA 32:5PRO 28:13MAT 6:14ROM 12:17EPH 4:32COL 3:13JAS 5:161PE 4:81JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and love towards those who have wronged us, highlighting the need for God's grace to enable us to forgive effortlessly and show Christ's love to others. It encourages seeking God's guidance and anointing for transformation and revival, both personally and collectively, through prayer and surrender. The speaker prays for physical and spiritual strength, expressing a deep desire for God to work powerfully in the lives of the listeners and bring about lasting change.
(Clip) When a Preacher Needs to Repent
By Jim Cymbala1.4K08:19MAT 25:40LUK 6:35EPH 4:321PE 4:81JN 4:7This sermon shares a powerful personal experience of encountering a man in need, highlighting the transformative impact of God's love and the call to embrace and love others unconditionally, regardless of their circumstances or appearance. It emphasizes the importance of seeing others through God's eyes and being willing to extend grace and compassion to those society may overlook.
Epistle to the Ephesians
By Ignatius of Antioch1.3K17:48Audio BooksJHN 6:53EPH 2:14COL 1:151TH 5:171TI 4:13JAS 2:181PE 4:8The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of running in harmony with the mind of God and following the teachings of Jesus Christ. It encourages believers to strive for peace and unity, as faith and love are the foundation of a noble life. The transcript also highlights the significance of actions over mere profession of faith, as one's true character is revealed through their deeds. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for frequent gatherings for thanksgiving and worship, as well as the importance of being in unity with the bishop and the church.
Ye Are the Light of the World - Part 2
By Roy Daniel1.2K09:05MAT 5:44JHN 13:341CO 13:1GAL 5:22EPH 5:2COL 3:141PE 4:81JN 2:61JN 4:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of embodying the love of Christ in our actions, rather than just speaking about Jesus. It shares powerful stories of individuals like Will McFarlane, John Wesley, and John Hyde, who demonstrated Christ-like love through their lives, even in the face of persecution and rejection. The message challenges believers to reflect the love of Christ in a tangible way, going beyond mere words or religious activities.
Twenty Years of Family Life
By George Verwer1.1K58:49Family LifeMarriage PrinciplesGEN 2:24PRO 22:6MAL 2:16MAT 19:61CO 13:4EPH 5:25COL 3:191TH 5:17HEB 13:41PE 4:8George Verwer reflects on the 20 years of family life within Operation Mobilization (OM), emphasizing the importance of prioritizing family, discipline, and real love in maintaining strong marriages. He acknowledges the challenges of divorce and separation faced by many, even within the church, and highlights the miraculous success of OM in fostering lasting relationships among its members. Verwer shares insights on the necessity of prayer, submission, and open communication in marriage, while also addressing the dangers of extremism and hyper-idealism. He encourages couples to embrace the principles of commitment and discipline, recognizing that true love is an act of the will rather than merely a feeling. Ultimately, he praises God for the blessings experienced in family life over the past two decades.
Fulfillment of the Law
By Bill McLeod1.0K39:35Law Of GodMAT 22:39ROM 13:8ROM 13:10EPH 4:321PE 1:221PE 4:8In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who was called by God to spread the word among English people. The man started off on foot, then progressed to a horse and eventually a car, but every Saturday he would go door to door, trying to win people to Christ. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having fervent love among believers, as love covers a multitude of sins. He encourages looking for the good in others and helping them in their struggles. The sermon also highlights the danger of hypocritical love and the need to love in truth and action, not just in words. The preacher references various Bible verses, including 1 Peter 4:8, Romans 12:9, 1 John 3:18, and Ezekiel 33:31, to support his message.
The End of the Commandment
By Bill McLeod94646:21LovePSA 24:4MAT 5:48MAT 22:391CO 10:321TI 5:8JAS 1:271PE 4:8In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a woman who realizes that she has never tried to share her faith with two people she knows. She decides to approach them, but they reject her because they remember a party from many years ago where Christians did not show love. The speaker emphasizes that God wants us to show love and not be hypocritical in our actions. He encourages listeners to have genuine love for others and to let the Bible produce this love in their hearts. The sermon also includes a story about a man who was living a double life but was convicted by the Holy Spirit and made things right. The speaker urges listeners to deal with any unresolved issues or sins in their lives and allow the Holy Spirit to lead them.
Can We Judge Our Church
By Shane Idleman82244:16MAT 7:1ROM 14:131CO 4:5GAL 6:1EPH 4:29COL 3:13JAS 4:111PE 4:81JN 4:20This sermon focuses on the importance of not judging others, emphasizing the need to remove the plank from our own eye before critiquing others. It delves into the impact of critical attitudes, unrealistic expectations, and preference influencing decisions within the church. The message highlights the significance of love, grace, and encouragement in driving motives, and the need for protection against gossip and attacks, especially within the Christian community.
The Testimony of Pastor Carter Conlon
By Carter Conlon73850:24PRO 3:5MAT 6:14ACT 1:8ROM 8:31EPH 3:20PHP 4:13JAS 5:161PE 4:81JN 4:18This sermon is a powerful testimony of a miraculous journey of faith, highlighting the transformation and redemption experienced through surrendering to God. It emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, restitution, and faithful service in the Christian walk, showcasing the supernatural work of God in ordinary lives. The speaker shares personal stories of encountering God's love, overcoming fear, and witnessing divine interventions, ultimately pointing to the life-changing impact of a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Unity
By Roy Daniel6451:06:08JDG 1:5JDG 5:2JDG 5:92CH 17:16HEB 13:161PE 4:8In this sermon, the preacher shares a sad incident that occurred during a prayer meeting in South Africa. Initially, the prayer meeting was powerful and effective, with people seeking the presence of God. However, the meeting took a negative turn when they started spending time talking and debating instead of praying. This led to angry arguments and ultimately caused the prayer group to split up, leaving only a few people praying. The preacher emphasizes the importance of unity among Christians and highlights the devil's knowledge of this fact. He also references Bible verses that teach about the grace of God and the need to live righteously. The sermon concludes with a story about two individuals who tried to share the gospel but failed to show love and unity, ultimately hindering their efforts.
Prayer in a Surrounded City
By Carter Conlon63937:582KI 6:16PSA 55:16MAT 5:44ROM 12:211CO 10:13EPH 6:12JAS 5:161PE 4:8This sermon from Psalms 55 focuses on the power of prayer in a surrounded city, emphasizing the importance of kindness and love towards those who oppose us. It highlights the need for believers to pray fervently, trust in God's ability to intervene, and demonstrate acts of kindness even in the face of hostility and challenges.
No Room for Bitterness
By Basilea Schlink62104:35Radio ShowMAT 6:33JHN 17:26ROM 5:51CO 13:4EPH 4:321PE 4:81JN 4:19In this sermon, the speaker shares their personal journey of learning to love and forgive others. They describe how God used difficult circumstances and a challenging person in their life to teach them the importance of love and compassion. Through the process of being humbled and broken, they experienced the transformative power of Jesus' blood and righteousness. The speaker emphasizes the need to surrender our self-righteousness and endure unjust treatment, in order to truly experience the love of Christ and have Him dwell within us.
Cd Gv498 Why I Joined Ad 2000
By George Verwer58100:00MAT 22:37ROM 12:91CO 13:41CO 14:1EPH 4:151PE 4:81JN 4:8In this video, George Verwer, the International Coordinator of Operation Mobilization, shares his reasons for becoming involved in the 82,000 and beyond movement for the mobilization of new missionaries. He acknowledges the criticism and misunderstandings surrounding the movement but emphasizes the importance of following God's word and building on its foundation. Verwer mentions various teachings and books that have influenced his perspective, including the emphasis on love and integrity. He also highlights the complexity of the church and the idea that failure can lead to success in God's work.
4 Pre-Requisites to Revival
By Ray Brubaker57512:45Revival2CH 7:14PRO 16:18ISA 57:15MAT 6:33JAS 5:161PE 4:81JN 1:9In this sermon, Ray Brubaker discusses the current state of the world and emphasizes the need for a revival. He acknowledges that these are perilous times, but also highlights the promise of God's Spirit being poured out in the last days. Brubaker quotes Reverend Edward LR Elson, who believes that while there is moral decline, there is also a great moral resurgence and spiritual reawakening happening. The sermon emphasizes the importance of genuine repentance, surrender to Jesus Christ, and humility before God as prerequisites for revival. Dr. William Culbertson adds that revival requires a price to be paid, including self-crucifixion and abandonment of personal desires. The sermon concludes with the reminder that revival can be expected when Christians confess their sins, make apologies, and adjust grievances in a manner pleasing to God.
Ex Omers
By George Verwer53454:37MissionsMAT 6:33ROM 12:10EPH 4:21TI 6:101PE 4:81JN 4:7In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of preaching in different churches and the importance of prayer partners. He mentions that he had a successful meeting in Bournemouth where many people signed up for his prayer letter. The speaker also talks about the challenges faced in the ministry, such as difficulties in recruiting and financial support. He emphasizes the faithfulness of God in sustaining the ministry and mentions the new challenge of reaching northern Spain.
07 - New Commandment Love
By Ben Torrey50707:43LoveJHN 13:34JHN 17:20ROM 12:4ROM 12:91CO 13:11CO 13:41PE 4:8In this sermon, Ben Torrey discusses the importance of love in the body of Christ, which is the Church. He refers to 1 Corinthians 12:13, which states that we are all baptized into one body by the Holy Spirit, making us members of the Church. Torrey emphasizes the need for New Commandment Love, which is the love that Jesus commanded his followers to have for one another. He highlights the qualities of this love, such as patience, kindness, and forgiveness, as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-5. Torrey also mentions the significance of this love in demonstrating unity and proclaiming the gospel to the world, as stated in John 17.
Om Goals
By George Verwer49954:07MissionsPRO 16:18MAT 22:39MAT 28:191CO 13:1EPH 4:2JAS 4:61PE 4:8The video is a sermon transcript discussing the purpose and goals of a conference for leaders in OM (Operation Mobilization). The conference aims to inspire, motivate, and catalyze leaders in their ministry. The speaker emphasizes the importance of putting the principles of the movement into practice and highlights the potential impact of even a short one-hour message. Taking notes and studying the material is encouraged, as it helps in teaching and discussing the concepts with others. The availability of books for further learning is also mentioned.
The Love Behind Church Discipline
By Tim Conway46557:21MAT 18:151PE 4:8This sermon delves into the importance of love covering a multitude of sins within the church community. It emphasizes the need for earnest, intense love that seeks the good of others, minimizes faults, and fosters unity. The sermon highlights the delicate balance between covering sins to promote peace and dealing with sin when it endangers the church's relationship with God, causes division, or pollutes with destructive error. It stresses the role of love in guiding how to handle sin within the church, balancing forgiveness and accountability.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 101
By Don Courville35328:53Radio ShowMRK 10:21ROM 12:91CO 13:21PE 1:221PE 4:81JN 3:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of love in our interactions with others. He shares personal experiences of encountering difficult situations and emphasizes that without love, we may have a weak testimony and fail to win others to Christ. The preacher also reflects on a time when he had a negative attitude towards his neighbors and how God showed him that he wouldn't be able to win them over with that approach. He concludes by urging the audience to repent of their sins, receive Jesus as their Savior, and not to miss out on the opportunity to have a relationship with Him.
When Falsely Accused and Unjustly Used
By Lou Sutera3421:01:50AccusationISA 53:5ISA 53:7PHP 3:10HEB 12:161PE 3:91PE 4:81PE 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story about a young man who forgave his mother after seven years of estrangement. The young man's forgiving spirit allowed God to minister to his mother, who became a Christian that day. The speaker emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, stating that we are most like God when we forgive. He also discusses the concept of rendering blessing for evil and railing, highlighting the need for fervent love and covering the multitude of sins. The sermon addresses the impact of bitterness and defilement in families, using examples of young people who have been affected by divorce and desertion.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Have fervent charity - Αγαπην εκτενη· Intense love; for love shall cover a multitude of sins. A loving disposition leads us to pass by the faults of others, to forgive offenses against ourselves, and to excuse and lessen, as far as is consistent with truth, the transgressions of men. It does not mean that our love to others will induce God to pardon our offenses. See the note on Jam 5:20.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
above all things--not that "charity" or love is placed above "prayer," but because love is the animating spirit, without which all other duties are dead. Translate as Greek, "Having your mutual (literally, 'towards yourselves') charity intense." He presupposes its existence among them; he urges them to make it more fervent. charity shall cover the multitude, &c.--The oldest manuscripts have "covereth." Quoted from Pro 10:12; compare Pro 17:9. "Covereth" so as not harshly to condemn or expose faults; but forbearingly to bear the other's burdens, forgiving and forgetting past offenses. Perhaps the additional idea is included, By prayer for them, love tries to have them covered by God; and so being the instrument of converting the sinner from his error, "covereth a (not 'the,' as English Version) multitude of sins"; but the former idea from Proverbs is the prominent one. It is not, as Rome teaches, "covereth" his own sins; for then the Greek middle voice would be used; and Pro 10:12; Pro 17:9 support the Protestant view. "As God with His love covers my sins if I believe, so must I also cover the sins of my neighbor" [LUTHER]. Compare the conduct of Shem and Japheth to Noah (Gen 9:23), in contrast to Ham's exposure of his father's shame. We ought to cover others' sins only where love itself does not require the contrary.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves,.... Not but that charity, or love, is to be exercised towards all men, even towards enemies, but more especially towards the saints, and that under such a consideration in which it cannot be exercised towards others; namely, as their brethren in Christ, and as belonging to him, as the children of God, as redeemed by Christ, and sanctified by the Spirit; and these not only such as are of the same nation, and belong to the same particular church and community, or of the same denomination, but all the saints everywhere, whether Jews or Gentiles, or of whatsoever name, and in whatsoever state and condition: and this love ought to be mutual and reciprocal, and to be warm and fervent, and not lukewarm and indifferent, as it too often is; and should be constant, "continued", and "perpetual", as the Vulgate Latin and Arabic versions here read: and this the apostle exhorts to above all things else; since outward sobriety, and watchings, and prayer, and all other duties, are nothing without this; this is the sum and substance of the law, and the fulfilling of it; and without this a mere knowledge of the Gospel, and a profession of it, are in vain, and therefore in the first place to be attended to. And especially for the following reason, for charity shall cover the multitude of sins; referring to Pro 10:12 not a man's own sins, but the sins of others; and not from the sight of God, for from that only the blood and righteousness of Christ cover sins, even all the sins, the whole multitude of the sins of God's elect; but from the sight of men, both of those against whom they are committed, and others; since charity, or true love, thinks no ill, but puts the best constructions upon the words and actions of fellow Christians, and does not take them up, and improve and exaggerate them, but lets them lie buried in oblivion: it takes no notice of injuries, offences, and affronts, but overlooks them, bears with them, and forgives them, so that they are never raked up, and seen any more; which prevents much scandal, strife, and trouble. The Alexandrian copy, and some others, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions, read, "covereth", as in Pro 10:12.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:8 By its nature, love overlooks sins committed against us by others (see Prov 10:12; Matt 18:21-22; 1 Cor 13:4-7). Peter might also mean that our attitude of love, because it displays our relationship with Christ, covers our own sins and causes them to be forgiven (see Luke 7:47).