“What Will Be The Outcome?” – 1 PETER 4:12-19

This passage is certainly speaking prophetically of the coming trials for the church when Rome deciding to destroy Jerusalem and her temple in AD 70. Still, there is a message for all Christians enduring “fiery trials” at all times, as well. These struggles can tear us down or build us up, depending upon our preparation and endurance.

Clearly hear Peter’s question … ‘what will be the outcome?’

Will God be glorified in us? In the heat of battle, many soldier break and run. Others cower and freeze. Still other rise to the occasion and act heroically. Most of the time, those who act heroically are lost to history in their anonymity. The Generals get all the glory. So, too, with our great God and Savior.

When disciples endure heroically … ‘what will be the outcome?’

The deeper part of the question, however, concerns the fundamental question of salvation itself. What of those caught up in the destruction of Jerusalem who are not Christians – those who do not obey the gospel of God at all? The death of bodies and the destruction of property is a small matter in comparison to lost souls.

When people ignore the gospel call … ‘what will be the outcome?’

Satan receives his “glory”. This is the ultimate tragedy.

Trust in the strength of the ancient walls of Jerusalem is fruitless folly. So, too is trust in self to overcome and endure fiery trials of life. The outcome of each is a wipeout. The outcome is predictable.

On the other hand, entrusting our souls to God and trusting Him through all circumstances has a predicable outcome, too.

VICTORY!