8 and, before all things, to one another having the earnest love, because the love shall cover a multitude of sins; 9 hospitable to one another, without murmuring; 10 each, according as he received a gift, to one another ministering it, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God; 11 if any one doth speak—'as oracles of God;' if any one doth minister—'as of the ability which God doth supply;' that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom is the glory and the power—to the ages of the ages. Amen.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Peter 4:8-11
Commentary on 1 Peter 4:7-11
(Read 1 Peter 4:7-11)
The destruction of the Jewish church and nation, foretold by our Saviour, was very near. And the speedy approach of death and judgment concerns all, to which these words naturally lead our minds. Our approaching end, is a powerful argument to make us sober in all worldly matters, and earnest in religion. There are so many things amiss in all, that unless love covers, excuses, and forgives in others, the mistakes and faults for which every one needs the forbearance of others, Satan will prevail to stir up divisions and discords. But we are not to suppose that charity will cover or make amends for the sins of those who exercise it, so as to induce God to forgive them. The nature of a Christian's work, which is high work and hard work, the goodness of the Master, and the excellence of the reward, all require that our endeavours should be serious and earnest. And in all the duties and services of life, we should aim at the glory of God as our chief end. He is a miserable, unsettled wretch, who cleaves to himself, and forgets God; is only perplexed about his credit, and gain, and base ends, which are often broken, and which, when he attains, both he and they must shortly perish together. But he who has given up himself and his all to God, may say confidently that the Lord is his portion; and nothing but glory through Christ Jesus, is solid and lasting; that abideth for ever.