Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. 3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does. 7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 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 4:1-11

A.  Preparing for a life of spiritual warfare

          1.  Where preparation occurs:  Our minds: 1 Peter 4:1, 1 Peter 1:13, Rom. 12:1-2

          2.  What is the preparation:  Having the mind of Christ: 1 Peter 4:1

                                       a.  Christ’s suffering against the attacks of the devil, world, flesh: Matt. 4:1-10, Matt. 26:36-39, Luke 22:39-45

                                       b.  Christ’s suffering in the flesh to learn obedience: Hebrews 5:7-8, Psalm 119:71

B.  Living a life of spiritual warfare

                   1.  Denial and defeat of our flesh: 1 Peter 4:1, Rom. 6:6-11, Gal. 2:20

            2.  Denial and forsaking our past desires and conduct: 1 Peter 4:2, Col. 3:1-10

                  3.  Denial and separation from the world: 1 Peter 4:3-4, John 17:15-17, 1 John 2:15-17

APPLYING THE WORD

1. Is my thinking being shaped by the Word or the world?

2.  Does Jesus’ sufferings shape my attitudes in suffering?

3.  Am I living separated from the world or immersed in it?