1 Peter 4:17

Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - 1 Peter 4:12-19

The frequent repetition of counsel and comfort to Christians, considered as sufferers, in every chapter of this epistle, shows that the greatest danger these new converts were in arose from the persecutions to which their embracing Christianity exposed them. The good behaviour of Christians under sufferings is the most difficult part of their duty, but yet necessary both for the honour of Christ and their own comfort; and therefore the apostle, having extorted them in the former part of this... read more

William Barclay

William Barclay's Daily Study Bible - 1 Peter 4:17-19

4:17-19 For the time has come for judgment to begin from the household of God. And, if it begins from us, what will be the end of those who disobey the good news which comes from God? And, if the righteous man is scarcely saved, where will the impious man and the sinner appear? So, then, let those who suffer in accordance with the will of God, entrust their souls to him who is a Creator on whom you can rely, and continue to do right. As Peter saw it, it was all the more necessary for the... read more

John Gill

John Gills Exposition of the Bible Commentary - 1 Peter 4:17

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... read more

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible - 1 Peter 4:17

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 Matthew 24:9 , Matthew 24:21 , Matthew 24:22 ; Mark 13:12 , Mark 13:13 ; John 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... read more

John Calvin

John Calvin's Commentary on the Bible - 1 Peter 4:17

Verse 17 17For the time is come, or, Since also the time is come. He amplifies the consolation, which the goodness of the cause for which we suffer brings to us, while we are afflicted for the name of Christ. For this necessity, he says, awaits the whole Church of God, not only to be subject to the common miseries of men, but especially and mainly to be chastised by the hand of God. Then, with more submission, ought persecutions for Christ to be endured. For except we desire to be blotted out... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - 1 Peter 4:17

For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God. The house of God is the Church (see 1 Timothy 3:15 ; 1 Corinthians 3:16 ; and 1 Peter 2:5 ). The judgment must begin at the sanctuary ( Ezekiel 9:6 ; see also Jeremiah 25:15-29 ). The beginning of judgment is the persecution of the Christians, as our Lord had taught ( Matthew 24:8 , Matthew 24:9 , and following verses); but that judgment is not unto condemnation: "When we are judged, we are chastened of the... read more

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - 1 Peter 4:17

For the time is come - That is, this is now to be expected. There is reason to think that this trial will now occur, and there is a propriety that it should be made. Probably the apostle referred to some indications then apparent that this was about to take place.That judgment must begin - The word “judgment” here (κρίμα krima) seems to mean “the severe trial which would determine character.” It refers to such calamities as would settle the question whether there was any religion, or would... read more

Joseph Benson

Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - 1 Peter 4:17

1 Peter 4:17. For the time is come Foretold by Christ, Matthew 24:9; John 16:2; that judgment must begin at the house of God In the Christian Church; God’s own family, which he first visits, both in justice and mercy. The judgment here spoken of is thought by many commentators to signify the particular distress which was to happen before Jerusalem should be utterly destroyed. the Christians were to expect to feel some of the first effects of that general calamity: it was to begin with... read more

Donald C. Fleming

Bridgeway Bible Commentary - 1 Peter 4:12-19

Joy amid persecution (4:12-19)Christians should not be surprised when they have to suffer because of their faith in Christ. Their association with him means that they have to share his suffering now, just as they will share his glory in the future. They should be glad when they suffer for his sake, because it gives them added assurance that they are God’s people. They know that God is testing and purifying their faith (12-14). They have no need to be downhearted because of persecution, provided... read more

E.W. Bullinger

E.W. Bullinger's Companion Bible Notes - 1 Peter 4:17

the time, &c . = ( it is) the season. that judgment, &c . Literally of judgment ( App-177 .) beginning. at = from. App-104 . house . Compare 1 Peter 2:5 . 1 Timothy 3:15 .Hebrews 3:6 ; Hebrews 10:21 . obey not = are disobedient to. See 1 Peter 2:7 . gospel of God . App-140 . read more

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