“But they will have to give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.” (1 Peter 4:5 NIV)
The apostle Peter reminds his readers that God will judge all people; both those who are still alive and those who have already died. By doing so, he puts into perspective the unjust treatment of his fellow believers. Some of them suffered intensely from abuse, social exclusion and even life threatening persecution. Even today, many Christians worldwide are persecuted for their faith. That raises the question: Does God see the suffering of His children? How can He allow this to happen? Will the suffering ever end?
Yes, Peter says. God will judge justly. One day, all suffering and injustice will be brought before His throne and judged. That hope gives strength to endure suffering. In this, believers can follow the example of Jesus. “When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted himself to Him who judges justly.” (1 Peter 2:23 NIV)
What does the thought of a coming judgment stir in you? Can you imagine that this perspective helps people place their unjust circumstances into God’s hands and persevere in faith? How do you experience that yourself?