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What does St. Peter mean when he says, "Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, are yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin" (1 Peter 4:1)?

In the Holy Book of I Peter chapter 4, St. Peter is referring to crucifying passions, preparing for the end of time and glory in Heaven by serving and suffering. This is the theme of this chapter.

St. Peter in verses 1-5 is speaking to very specific heathen activities prevalent in Asia Minor during that period of history.

"Therefore since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles--when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of the dissipation, speaking evil of you. They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead" (I Peter 4:1-5).

During those days, lowly practices such as  excessive consumption of alcohol, and pagan worship of various deities, with many ungodly and unspeakable practices associated with this worship, were especially common. St Peter is urging those people to not return to those bad habits any more, but keep focused on the One who had suffered for their sake. St. Peter’s exhortation can be addressed to any person at any point in time, who has come to know Christ after a life full of sin and immoral practices.

Two types of suffering this chapter refers to: the first one is the inflictions brought about by sin and misbehavior, meant for our chastisement. The second type is our Lord Jesus Christ’s suffering that he bore for mankind as the price for sin that they may no longer live in sin. In baptism, we partake of the sufferings of Jesus Christ himself.

This preparation for the End will ultimately bring great joy. Christians who suffer can always be sure that God Himself will be faithful, just and good.

I encourage you to continue your readings each day, as this is the only true path to Scriptural knowledge.