Our Scripture reading gives us a gamut of thoughts about ministry: good stewardship of time and our spiritual gifts (I Peter 4:7-11); suffering (I Peter 4:12-19); instructions to elders (I Peter 5:1-4); an exhortation for all to be humble, yet vigilant (I Peter 5:5-11). The consideration of this study will be the matter of good stewardship: I Peter 4:7-11.

A Ministry of Stewardship - I Peter 4:7-11

• There is urgency about our use of time that requires intensity and consistency.
  (I Peter 4:7 cp Ephesians 5:14-21; II Peter 3:10-18)
• There is a tremendous need to minister love to the brotherhood of Christians.
  
• There is a tremendous need to minister love in the world.
  (I Peter 4:9 ~ the Greek word "hospitality" means "to show love or friendliness to strangers"
  cp. Romans 13:8-10; I Corinthians 13:1-8a; Galatians 6:9-10; II Timothy 2:24-26)
• Ministry is a matter of first receiving from God and then distributing to others.
  The ministry belongs to everyone. We must be faithful stewards, giving God the glory!
  (I Peter 4:10-11) John 3:27; I Corinthians 3:1-9; 4:1-7; Romans 12:1-13)