1 Peter 4:19

"Therefore" draws these encouragements to a conclusion and introduces a command in view of them. In view of these reasons we should respond to suffering by entrusting ourselves to the God who created us (cf. Matthew 27:50; Luke 23:46). He will bring us through our sufferings safely (cf. Philippians 1:6). God is faithful to do this. Furthermore we should keep on doing what is right (e.g., submitting to government rulers, obeying masters, submitting to husbands, loving wives, etc.) rather than doing evil (1 Peter 4:15). "Souls" (Gr. psychas) again refers to our total persons (cf. 1 Peter 1:9; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 Peter 2:11; 1 Peter 2:25; 1 Peter 3:20).

"Peter described God as the ’faithful Creator’-an unusual designation because only here in the NT is God called ktistes [Creator] . . . The combination of ’faithful’ and ’Creator’ reminds the believer of God’s love and power in the midst of trials so that they will not doubt his interest or ability." [Note: Blum, p. 249.]

Peter brought together four reasons for suffering in this section. First, God allows us to suffer to demonstrate our character (1 Peter 4:12). Second, those who identify themselves with Jesus Christ will share in the sufferings of our Savior (1 Peter 4:13; cf. Philippians 3:10). Third, our sufferings will be an occasion of God blessing us (1 Peter 4:14). In addition, fourth, our suffering will glorify God (1 Peter 4:16). Peter then redirected our perspective on suffering by reminding us of the time and intensity of our sufferings, compared with those of unbelievers (1 Peter 4:17-18). Finally, he concluded with an exhortation to trust God and do right (1 Peter 4:19). Peter thus encouraged his readers by revealing God’s perspective on their sufferings.

"The most striking feature of this section is its bold emphasis on the sovereignty and initiative of God, even in the suffering of his own people." [Note: Michaels, p. 274.]