The End of All Things is at Hand

“The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace. Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:7-11, ESV)

A New Center of Gravity

When we become followers of Christ, our entire view of life changes. No longer are we the center of our own world—God takes that place. As Paul declares, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20, ESV). This shift demands that we adopt a Christian worldview, where what we believe shapes how we behave. Scripture becomes our guide, answering life’s deepest questions: Where did I come from? (Genesis 1:1-31); What happens when I die? (John 14:1-4); How do I explain human behavior? (Romans 3:9-18); How do I determine right from wrong? (2 Timothy 3:16) and what is my purpose? (Isaiah 43:7).

The most vital question is this: What is important to God? The Bible reveals that all of nature declares His glory (Psalm 19:1), that our chief aim is to glorify Him, and that Jesus’ life on earth revealed God’s glory in human form. Yet, we too easily fall into the trap of thinking that life revolves around us, our needs, wants, and pleasures. The truth is far greater: life is all about God and making much of Him. In 1 Peter 4:7-11, the Apostle Peter shows us how to live this out, especially in the last days. Let’s dive into this passage, unpack its meaning, and discover how to center our lives on God’s purposes.

The Urgency of the End Times (1 Peter 4:7)

Peter begins with a striking statement: “The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.” The Greek word for “end” is telos, which means the completion or fulfillment of something. Peter isn’t just talking about the world’s destruction but the culmination of God’s redemptive plan. Christ’s return is near, and this reality should shape how we live.

Because the end is at hand, Peter calls us to be “self-controlled” (Greek: sōphroneō, meaning to be of sound mind) and “sober-minded” (Greek: nēphō, meaning to be watchful or alert). These qualities are essential “for the sake of your prayers.” In the last days, prayer is not a casual activity; it is a lifeline. It keeps us aligned with God’s will and prepares us for Christ’s return. As D. Edmond Hiebert notes, “The assertion that the end of the age does indeed stand near… well represents the view of the early church.” Yet, many believers who anticipate Jesus’ coming fail to apply this belief through diligent prayer. We must not take this need lightly.

Application

If we truly believe we’re in the last days, prayer becomes our priority. It’s not just about asking for blessings but about staying spiritually awake. Ask yourself: How can I cultivate a more prayerful and watchful life? Start by setting aside time each day to seek God, asking Him to keep your heart focused on eternity.

Fervent Love is the Heartbeat of God’s People (1 Peter 4:8)

Next, Peter writes, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” The Greek word for “love” is agapē, the selfless, sacrificial love that mirrors God’s love for us. Peter calls this love “earnest” (Greek: ektenēs, meaning intense or stretched out), emphasizing its depth and persistence. This love isn’t optional—it’s the highest priority (“above all”).

Why does love matter so much? Because “love covers a multitude of sins.” This doesn’t mean love excuses sin, but that it forgives and overlooks offenses, fostering unity. As Wayne Grudem observes, “Where love abounds in a fellowship of Christians, many small offences, and even some large ones, are readily overlooked and forgotten.” In the last days, when tensions rise and eternity looms, this fervent love binds us together as we await Christ.

Application

Love is how the world knows we belong to Jesus (John 13:35). Ask: In what ways can I show fervent love, especially when it’s hard? Maybe it’s forgiving a hurt, serving someone in need, or simply listening. Let’s love as Christ does, reflecting God’s heart to a watching world.

Hospitality is a Reflection of God’s Welcome (1 Peter 4:9)

Peter continues, “Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” The Greek word philoxenia (love for strangers) captures the essence of hospitality. In the early church, this was vital; persecuted believers relied on safe homes. But Peter adds “without grumbling” (Greek: gongysmos, murmuring or discontent), acknowledging that hospitality can be costly or inconvenient. Hiebert notes, “It depicts a spirit that is the opposite of cheerfulness.”

Yet, hospitality is more than a cultural norm, it is a reflection of God’s welcoming love. When we open our lives to others, we show the world what God is like. In a self-focused culture, this stands out as a powerful witness.

Application

Hospitality isn’t just about big gestures; it’s about making space for others. Ask: How can I practice hospitality in my current circumstances? Invite someone over, share a meal, or welcome a newcomer at church; do it cheerfully, trusting God to provide the strength.

Serving with God’s Gifts (1 Peter 4:10)

Peter then instructs, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” The word “gift” (Greek: charisma) means a gift of grace—something God gives every believer. These gifts aren’t for personal glory but for serving others. We’re called “stewards” (Greek: oikonomos, managers) of God’s “varied grace” (Greek: poikilos, many-colored), highlighting the diversity of gifts in the church.

Paul echoes this in 1 Corinthians 15:10: God’s grace isn’t in vain when we use it. If we hoard our gifts, we waste His grace. But when we serve, we build up the body and honor the Giver.

Application

Your gift, whether teaching, helping, or encouraging, is from God and for His people. Ask: What gifts has God given me, and how can I use them to serve? Step out in faith, knowing your service glorifies Him.

Speaking and Serving for God’s Glory (1 Peter 4:11)

Finally, Peter says, “Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” Those who speak (perhaps teaching or exhorting) must do so as if delivering “oracles of God” (Greek: logia theou), striving to reflect His truth faithfully. Those who serve must rely on “the strength that God supplies,” not their own power.

The purpose is clear: “in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” Every word, every act, points to Him. This is the heartbeat of a God-centered life.

Application

Whether you speak or serve, do it for God’s glory. Ask: How can I ensure my words and actions honor Him? Rely on His strength, and let your life magnify Christ.

Life Is About God

Peter’s words in 1 Peter 4:7-11 challenge us to reorient our lives. The world tells us to chase personal dreams, success, happiness, and comfort. But Scripture says we were created for God’s glory (Isaiah 43:7). Our dreams aren’t wrong unless they overshadow His purposes. When we seek His kingdom first (Matthew 6:33), He aligns our desires with His will.

Look at the early Church in Acts 2:42-47, they lived out prayer, love, hospitality, and service, not for themselves, but for God’s glory. That’s our calling too. Life isn’t about us; it’s about making much of Him.

Practical Steps to Live for God’s Purposes

Here’s how to apply 1 Peter 4:7-11 today:

Prioritize Prayer: Dedicate time daily to seek God, staying watchful for His return.

Love Fervently: Show sacrificial love, forgiving and serving others selflessly.

Practice Hospitality: Open your life to others, even when it’s hard, without complaint.

Use Your Gifts: Serve the church with what God has given you, stewarding His grace well.

Glorify God: Speak and act in ways that point to Him, relying on His strength.

True Joy in God’s Glory

Living for God’s purposes requires sacrifice, but it leads to joy. As we bow before Him, joining creation in praising His name (Psalm 19:1), we find our true purpose. In the last days, let’s live with urgency, love, and service all for His glory. “To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”