1 Likewise, ye wives, [be] in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
2 While they behold your chaste conversation [coupled] with fear.
3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward [adorning] of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
4 But [let it be] the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, [even the ornament] of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:
6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with [them] according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
8 Finally, [be ye] all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, [be] pitiful, [be] courteous:
9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord [are] over the righteous, and his ears [are open] unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord [is] against them that do evil.
13 And who [is] he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?
14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy [are ye]: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
17 For [it is] better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
21 The like figure whereunto [even] baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
Overview of 1 Peter Chapter 3
1 Peter Chapter 3 addresses various themes including the conduct of believers, the role of women, the importance of suffering for righteousness, and the call to maintain a good conscience. This chapter emphasizes the significance of inner beauty, mutual respect in relationships, and the strength found in faith amid trials.
Key Themes
- Conduct and Submission
- Inner Beauty and Character
- Suffering for Righteousness
- Hope and Defense of Faith
Conduct and Submission
Verses 1-7 focus on the relationship dynamics within households, particularly between husbands and wives. Peter encourages wives to submit to their husbands, which is framed as a means of winning over unbelieving spouses through respectful behavior.
- Submission in Marriage: The call for wives to submit is not about inferiority but about a respectful partnership.
- Influence through Behavior: The emphasis on conduct over words highlights the power of a godly life as a witness.
- Husbands’ Responsibilities: Husbands are instructed to honor their wives, recognizing them as co-heirs of grace, which promotes mutual respect.
Inner Beauty and Character
In verses 3-4, Peter contrasts external adornment with the beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit. This inner beauty is described as precious in God’s sight, reinforcing the idea that true worth is found in character rather than appearance.
- Value of Inner Beauty: The focus on a gentle spirit suggests that character traits are more enduring than physical appearance.
- God’s Perspective: The chapter emphasizes that God values the heart and intentions over outward displays of beauty.
Suffering for Righteousness
Verses 8-17 shift the focus to the broader community of believers, encouraging them to live harmoniously and to be compassionate. Peter reminds them that suffering for doing good is commendable and aligns with Christ’s own suffering.
- Call to Unity: Believers are urged to be sympathetic, loving, and humble, fostering a community that reflects Christ’s love.
- Response to Suffering: The chapter advises believers on how to respond to suffering, advocating for a posture of blessing rather than retaliation.
- Hope in Suffering: Peter encourages believers to maintain hope and to be prepared to defend their faith with gentleness and respect.
Hope and Defense of Faith
Verses 15-16 highlight the importance of being ready to give an answer for one’s hope. This defense should be done with a clear conscience, ensuring that the believer’s actions align with their testimony.
- Preparedness: The call to be ready to explain one’s faith underscores the importance of understanding and articulating one’s beliefs.
- Conscience and Conduct: A good conscience acts as a safeguard, ensuring that one’s actions do not contradict their faith.
Conclusion
1 Peter Chapter 3 serves as a guide for Christian conduct in various relationships and situations, emphasizing the importance of inner beauty, respectful behavior, and the strength found in suffering for righteousness. It calls believers to live out their faith authentically, maintaining hope and readiness to share their beliefs with others.
