"If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen"
(1 Peter 4:11 NKJV)

speak as the Bible speaks, be silent where the Bible is silent, call Bible things by Bible names, and do Bible things in Bible ways

The first part of this memory verse is well known; the latter part, not so much. All of it deserves our attention.

To speak often describes an action of teachers. God’s word is communicated through words, whether spoken or written. The purpose is to use words that conform to God’s oracles. It is eminently scriptural for us to insist on speaking as the Bible speaks, being silent where the Bible is silent, calling Bible things by Bible names, and doing Bible things in Bible ways.

Oracles refer to the sayings of God. It describes the revelations that Moses received (living oracles, Acts 7:38) and God’s promises to the Jews (Romans 3:2). Sluggish Christians were rebuked for their failure to grow in the basic principles of the God’s oracles (Hebrews 5:12). Peter warns his readers against any departure from divine utterances (1 Peter 4:11). A failure to heed this warning has led to many and diverse false doctrines.

To minister is to serve. The oracles of God guide us into service and obedience. When satan tried to turn Jesus away from truth and into unscriptural service, Jesus used the oracles to respond (Matthew 4:3-11).

Our steady purpose is to act with the abilities that God supplies us. Ability here means strength—the capability to function effectively. This is not difficult for one who loves the Lord with all his might (see Mark 12:30,33).

We glorify God when we use His gifts as He directs. The danger is the temptation to glorify ourselves (see Matthew 6:2). The Christian knows that the Lord deserves the glory and dominion (might, sovereignty) forever. All we are or ever hope to be, we owe to Him. Let us serve Him accordingly.

– Rick Duggin