John Gill emphasizes the importance of recognizing the past sinful life of believers, as described in 1 Peter 4:3. He explains that the time spent in sin, characterized by lasciviousness, lust, intemperance, and idolatry, is sufficient and should lead to a transformation in behavior. The apostle urges believers to abandon the ways of the Gentiles and instead pursue the will of God, highlighting the grace that has brought about this change. Gill stresses that no time is permissible for sin, and believers are called to live differently in light of their new identity in Christ.