1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,
2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord [is] gracious.
4 To whom coming, [as unto] a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, [and] precious,
5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
7 Unto you therefore which believe [he is] precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,
8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, [even to them] which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.
9 But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
10 Which in time past [were] not a people, but [are] now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
11 Dearly beloved, I beseech [you] as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by [your] good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;
14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:
16 As free, and not using [your] liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.
17 Honour all [men]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
18 Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
19 For this [is] thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
20 For what glory [is it], if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer [for it], ye take it patiently, this [is] acceptable with God.
21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed [himself] to him that judgeth righteously:
24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
Overview of 1 Peter Chapter 2
1 Peter Chapter 2 serves as an exhortation to Christians, encouraging them to embrace their identity in Christ and to live in a manner that reflects their faith. This chapter emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth, the role of Jesus as the cornerstone, and the responsibilities of believers in their conduct and community life.
Key Themes
- Spiritual Growth: The call to grow in faith and spiritual maturity.
- Identity in Christ: Understanding believers as a chosen people and a holy priesthood.
- Conduct Among Non-Believers: Instructions on how to live honorably in society.
- Christ as the Cornerstone: The significance of Jesus in the life of believers.
Detailed Analysis
1. Spiritual Growth (Verses 1-3)
The chapter opens with an exhortation to “rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.” This call to action highlights the necessity of shedding negative behaviors that hinder spiritual growth. The metaphor of “newborn babies” craving pure spiritual milk emphasizes the need for believers to desire and consume the Word of God for nourishment and growth.
2. Identity in Christ (Verses 4-10)
In these verses, Peter describes believers as living stones being built into a spiritual house. This metaphor signifies the collective identity of Christians as part of God’s temple. The concept of being a “chosen people” and “royal priesthood” underscores the dignity and purpose bestowed upon believers. It emphasizes that their identity is rooted in God’s mercy, which calls them out of darkness into His marvelous light.
- Chosen People: Reflects God’s selection and love.
- Royal Priesthood: Indicates a direct relationship with God and the responsibility to serve others.
- Holy Nation: Suggests a community set apart for God’s purposes.
3. Conduct Among Non-Believers (Verses 11-12)
Peter urges believers to live as “foreigners and exiles” in a society that may not share their values. This metaphor emphasizes the transient nature of their earthly existence and the importance of maintaining a good reputation among non-believers. By doing good deeds, believers can silence accusations against them and demonstrate the transformative power of their faith.
4. Christ as the Cornerstone (Verses 6-8)
Peter quotes from the Old Testament to affirm Jesus as the cornerstone of faith. This imagery illustrates the strength and stability that Christ provides to believers. Those who believe in Him will not be put to shame, while those who reject Him will face judgment. This duality reinforces the importance of faith in Christ as central to salvation.
5. Instructions for Submission (Verses 13-17)
Peter provides practical instructions on how believers should submit to governing authorities. This submission is not based on the worthiness of the leaders but on the recognition of God’s sovereignty. Peter encourages a lifestyle of honor, not only towards rulers but also towards all people, reflecting the character of Christ in their interactions.
- Submission to Authority: Acknowledges the role of government as instituted by God.
- Honoring All People: Promotes a culture of respect and love.
6. Suffering for Doing Good (Verses 18-25)
Peter addresses the theme of suffering, particularly for doing good. He encourages slaves to submit to their masters, even if unjustly treated, drawing parallels to Christ’s own suffering. This section emphasizes the redemptive nature of suffering and the importance of following Christ’s example, who bore sins for humanity. The chapter concludes with a reminder of the believer’s return to the Shepherd and Overseer of their souls.
Conclusion
1 Peter Chapter 2 provides a rich tapestry of theological insights and practical instructions for believers. It calls for spiritual growth, emphasizes the identity of Christians as part of God’s chosen people, and outlines how to live honorably in a secular world. The chapter ultimately points to Christ as the cornerstone of faith and encourages believers to endure suffering with grace, reflecting the character of their Savior.
