1 Peter 4:3-5

“For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.”

Those who live for the fulfillment of their fleshly desires are consumed with sensuality. Stimuli drive their actions, and they constantly crave more. This overwhelming desire leads them to all kinds of excess. When these people see Christians who abstain from such debauchery, they are shocked. And there shock quickly gives way to mockery and malicious lies. They will be held accountable for their words and actions.

Earlier in the book, we were told that our testimony could be used to bring someone to Christ. Here we see our testimony provoking people. But these reactions which seem so different may just be different parts of the same thing. Perhaps the negative reaction to our abstaining from debauchery stems from the person's guilt concerning his own sin. This may permanently inspire him to tear us down, trying to prove that we are really no different. But this wrath may eventually give way to recognition of personal sinfulness and acceptance of Christ.