1 Peter 4:17

Time. Gr. kairos, a particular, specific, appropriate “time” (see on Mark 1:15; Acts 1:7).

Is come. These words have been appropriately supplied by the translators. See below under “must begin”; cf. on v. 7

Judgment. Gr. krima, “the sentence” (see on Rev. 17:1). The judgment scene of Eze. 9 apparently constitutes the setting of Peter’s comparison of the faithful Christian and the ungodly, before the judgment throne of God.

Must begin. Literally, “begins.” The first sentence of this verse may be translated, “Because it is the appropriate time for judgment to begin at the house of God.” In view of the shortness of time (see on v. 7) and of the “fiery trial” soon to come (v. 12), Peter urged his fellow believers to remember their solemn responsibilities as Christians. Compare Eze. 9:6, where the messengers of judgment began at the sanctuary, executing judgment on those who made the highest profession. In the “fiery trial” and in the time of “judgment” God would expect much of those who professed the name of Christ.

House of God. That is, the church (see on 1 Tim. 3:15).

The end. That is, the fate. In comparison with the wicked, sincere Christians are manifestly more worthy of eternal life. If God proposes to deal strictly with His own people, how much more severe will He be with those who have deliberately opposed the truth in the person of His witnesses. Accordingly, Christians need not fear that God will not deal justly with their tormentors.

Them that obey not. In other words, those who are responsible for the “fiery trial” through which Christians are to pass (v. 12).