Live Wholly for God

4:1  What are the practical implications for Christians of Christ’s suffering and consequent triumph over death and the powers of evil? Recalling the opening of this section, back in 3:18, Peter reverts to the death of Christ. This is the example that believers should follow. They must turn their backs on the immoral practices of their pagan neighbors, formerly their own life-style, and wholeheartedly follow their Master by copying him. Christ suffered in his body, that is, he gave his all, including his very life, in carrying out the will of God. His followers must resolve to go to the same lengths: Arm yourselves also with the same attitude—a military metaphor; but the NT is not averse to using such language, for believers are indeed engaged in warfare, albeit in the s…