1 Peter 4:10

As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.

Study Bible

As good stewards
The term "stewards" comes from the Greek word "οἰκονόμοι" (oikonomoi), which refers to a manager or overseer of a household. In the ancient world, a steward was entrusted with the responsibility of managing the affairs and resources of their master's household. This implies a sense of accountability and trust. In the Christian context, believers are seen as stewards of God's gifts, entrusted with the responsibility to manage and utilize these gifts wisely for His glory. The adjective "good" emphasizes the quality of stewardship expected from believers, suggesting faithfulness, diligence, and integrity in managing what God has entrusted to them.

of the manifold grace of God
The word "manifold" is translated from the Greek "ποικίλης" (poikilēs), meaning "varied" or "diverse." This highlights the multifaceted nature of God's grace, which is abundant and expressed in numerous ways. God's grace is not limited to a single form but is rich and diverse, providing for the various needs and circumstances of His people. The phrase "grace of God" underscores the unmerited favor and blessings that God bestows upon believers. It is through this grace that believers receive spiritual gifts, which are to be used for the edification of the church and the advancement of God's kingdom.

each of you should use whatever gift he has received
The phrase "each of you" indicates the personal responsibility of every believer. The Greek word for "gift" is "χάρισμα" (charisma), which refers to a spiritual endowment or ability given by the Holy Spirit. These gifts are not earned or deserved but are given by God's grace for the purpose of serving others. The use of "whatever gift" suggests that every believer has received at least one gift, and there is an expectation to actively employ these gifts. This emphasizes the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ and the importance of each member contributing to the whole.

to serve one another
The Greek word for "serve" is "διακονεῖτε" (diakoneite), which is related to the term "deacon" and means to minister or serve. This service is not self-serving but is directed towards others, reflecting the servant leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ. The phrase "one another" indicates the mutual and reciprocal nature of Christian service within the community of believers. This service is an expression of love and unity, as believers use their gifts to support, encourage, and build up one another in faith. It underscores the communal aspect of the Christian life, where each member plays a vital role in the health and growth of the church body.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
The apostle Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, is the author of this epistle. He writes to encourage and instruct believers in their faith and conduct.

2. Recipients of the Epistle
The letter is addressed to the "elect exiles" scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, regions in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). These early Christians faced persecution and needed guidance on living out their faith.

3. The Early Church
The context of the early church is significant, as believers were learning to live in community, using their diverse gifts to build up the body of Christ amidst external pressures.

Teaching Points

Stewardship of Gifts
Believers are called to be "good stewards" of the gifts God has entrusted to them. This implies responsibility, care, and intentionality in using these gifts for God's purposes.

Manifold Grace of God
The term "manifold" suggests the diverse and multifaceted nature of God's grace. Each believer's gift is a unique expression of this grace, meant to complement and complete the community of faith.

Service to One Another
The primary purpose of spiritual gifts is to serve others. This service reflects Christ's love and fosters unity and growth within the church.

Community and Interdependence
The passage underscores the importance of community and interdependence among believers. No gift is meant for self-glorification but for the edification of others.

Active Participation
Every believer is encouraged to actively participate in the life of the church, using their gifts to contribute to the mission and ministry of the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to be a "good steward" of the gifts God has given you, and how can you apply this in your daily life?

2. How can understanding the "manifold grace of God" change your perspective on the diversity of gifts within your church community?

3. In what ways can you use your spiritual gifts to serve others, both within your church and in the broader community?

4. How do the teachings in Romans 12:6-8 and 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 complement Peter's message in 1 Peter 4:10 about using our gifts?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced the positive impact of someone using their spiritual gifts. How did it affect your faith and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 12:6-8
Paul also speaks about the diversity of gifts given by God's grace and the importance of using them to serve others within the body of Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:4-7
This passage highlights the variety of spiritual gifts and their purpose for the common good, emphasizing unity in diversity.

Ephesians 4:11-13
Paul discusses the roles and gifts given to equip the saints for ministry and to build up the body of Christ, aiming for unity and maturity in faith.