1 Peter 4:4 4In this, they are surprised when you do not run together with them in the same flood of debauchery, reviling,
Not always do believers receive a kind response when they accept salvation through Jesus. Peter tells his readers what to expect when they begin to change into the likeness of the Holy God (1:15-16). Those who live in darkness do not like their deeds exposed because they have to acknowledge a law higher than themselves. In many cultures today, the postmodern mindset is that truth and right are relative to each person. In the name of freedom, people claim they can do whatever they want and are a law unto themselves.
The outcome of this way of thinking affects morality. When people live without regard to God or God’s righteous law, they will be inclined to follow the way of the sinful nature that enslaves the flesh. The more extreme result is reckless and wild living, and the more subtle result is pride or selfishness.
People living in rebellion against God reject the conviction of the Holy Spirit, who will speak to their consciences. Believers serve as a prick to unbelievers’ conscience by being lights shining on the darkness. As Peter notes, the response may be negative. The unbelievers we used to be friends with or who are around us may try to shame or isolate us because we do not run together with them anymore. As holy people, we have separated ourselves from evil influences and consecrated ourselves to God to be used by him.
Sometimes, unbelievers do not like this. They do not like someone different, who does not conform to their culture or does not participate in the activities that bring pleasure. Today, this might expressed as “political correctness.” Those who live by their convictions are often ridiculed for not conforming to the politically correct words or behaviors. The outcome of this is that believers may experience suffering and persecution. Minimally, this will be in the form of verbal abuse but may even include physical abuse. But God gives grace to us in those difficult moments.