Grietje Commelin 
“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” (1 Peter 4:9 NIV) As a practical expression of love, Peter mentions hospitality—literally, love for strangers. It is a beautiful way to obey God’s age-old command to “love your neighbor as yourself.” When you warmly welcome someone, you open your heart to that person. That is why we … Lees meer
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8 NIV) Christians live by God’s forgiveness. His love covers their sins, enabling them to stand before Him once again. He no longer holds their past failures against them. What freedom this brings! Psalm 32:1 (NIV) expresses it beautifully: … Lees meer
“The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.” (1 Peter 4:7 NIV) When Peter looks to the future, he is not thinking only about the coming judgment. That is just one aspect of God’s plan that will bring “all things” to their appointed destiny. … Lees meer
“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 … Lees meer
“They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you.” (1 Peter 4:4 NIV) When you come to faith and choose to live in honor of God, it can bring major changes. Those affect not only you, but also the people around you. Friends may … Lees meer
“They do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.” (1 Peter 4:2 NIV) Peter was a disciple of Jesus Christ. For three years, he listened to Jesus’ teaching and witnessed His perfect love and obedience to God. Little by little, Peter learned what … Lees meer
“For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Matthew 9:13 NIV) The story of Matthew’s conversion concludes with a remarkable statement by the Lord Jesus. His association with openly sinful people and those who were shunned by society drew criticism from those who considered themselves better and more righteous. But Jesus did … Lees meer
“Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’” (Matthew 9:13 NIV) Those who witnessed Jesus spending time with people of questionable reputation were quick to judge Him. But Jesus sent them away with the assignment to reflect carefully on God’s words that mercy is more important than the strict observance of religious … Lees meer
“While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with Him and His disciples.” (Matthew 9:10 NIV) Now that Matthew has come to know the Lord Jesus, he opens his home to Him. Jesus is the guest, yet at the same time He is the host. The gathering … Lees meer