Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Peter 4:12-19

"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial among you, which cometh upon you to prove you, as though a strange thing happened unto you: but insomuch as ye are partakers of Christ`s sufferings, rejoice; that at the revelation of his glory also ye may rejoice with exceeding joy. If ye are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed [are ye]; because the [Spirit] of glory and the Spirit of God resteth upon you. For let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil-doer, or as a meddler in other men`s matters: but if [a man suffer] as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this name. For the time [is come] for judgment to begin at the house of God: and if [it begin] first at us, what [shall be] the end of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous is scarcely saved, where shall the ungodly and sinner appear? Wherefore let them also that suffer according to the will of God commit their souls in well-doing unto a faithful Creator." — 1 Peter 4:12-19 (ASV)

Through patience and fortitude in suffering, dependence on God's promises, and adherence to the word the Holy Spirit has revealed, the Holy Spirit is glorified; but through the contempt and reproaches cast upon believers, He is defamed and blasphemed. One might think such cautions as these are unnecessary for Christians, but their enemies falsely charged them with heinous crimes.

And even the best of people need to be warned against the worst of sins. There is no comfort in sufferings when we bring them upon ourselves by our own sin and folly. A time of universal calamity was near, as foretold by our Savior (Matthew 24:9, 10). And if such things happen in this life, how terrible the day of judgment will be! It is true that the righteous are scarcely saved—even those who strive to walk uprightly in the ways of God.

This does not mean that God's purpose and accomplishment are uncertain, but rather it underscores the great difficulties and hard encounters along the way—that believers go through so many temptations and tribulations, so many fightings without and fears within. Yet all outward difficulties would be insignificant if it were not for the lusts and corruptions within. These are the worst hindrances and troubles.

And if the way of the righteous is so hard, then how hard will the end of the ungodly sinner be, who walks in sin with delight and thinks the righteous is a fool for all his efforts! The only way to keep the soul well is to commit it to God through prayer and patient perseverance in doing good. He will direct all things to the ultimate advantage of the believer.