CHAPTER III
(vs 1) "In like manner"--Peter has discussed the duties of servants
to masters; obedience to civil authority
"ye wives" -- He now addresses the problem of wives married
to unbelieving husbands.
The position of wives was little better than
that of slaves in post places. As the gospel
spread, wives (as well as the removal of slavery)
were elevated to their proper place in society.
Not through revolution, but by instruction.
"own husband"--How easy for the woman to look up to men who
were Christians; but, Peter states that wives were
to be in subjection to their OWN husband, even the
unbelieving ones.
"obey not the word"--They do not allow themselves to be
persuaded. Peter is NOT saying that something
other than the gospel will save them. This would
contradict so many plain passages.
TWO THOUGHTS POSSIBLE:
(1) The unbelieving husband would be motivated to obey
by the example of the wife, rather than by direct
teaching.
(2) Article "the" is not found before "word" in phrase
"may without the word be gained;" thus, "may
without a word (from the wife) be gained by her
godly behavior." The wife does not nag, seek to
force; but displays godliness.
"be gained" -- saved, added to Christ.
"Behavior"--sums up the conduct of the wives.
(vs 2) "beholding" -- they see, admire, examine, observe.
"behavior" -- manner of life, cf. vs 16.
"fear" -- respect for husband.
(vs 3) A Christian wife uses different methods than those in world.
Their adornment is not outward pomp, circumstances, but
reflect the character of the Christ.
NOTE: This passage is a "Hebraism." Cf. John 6:27 --
"Work not for the food which perishes, but for the
food which abideth unto eternal life." Taken
literally, we could not work for daily food.
Actually, do not place your emphasis on the
physical, but on the spiritual. So, likewise,
wives adorn yourselves in righteousness. Peter is
NOT saying, "Do not braid your hair, or wear
jewels, or put on apparel," but, do not use these
lavish things to entice or entrap.
Cf. 1 Tim. 2:9-10--"Forbidden is any lavish
display of artificial adornments and all gaudiness
contributing to the vanity of those
participating." (Woods)
(vs 4) "hidden man"--The inward man. 2 Cor 4:16; Rom. 7:22.
The "new man" - Col. 3:10.
"of the heart"-- in contrast to the physical or outward.
"incorruptible apparel" -- that which will not perish, like
gold, silver, etc. Ours is of greater value than
the world.
"great price" -- nothing of this creation can compare with
what we have with Jehovah. Cf.Pearl of great price
"sight of God" -- God is ever watching our every move.(3:12)
(vs 5) Numerous examples of godly women in O.T.
"subjection"--does not mean abuse, for husbands are to love
the wives.
(vs 6) Example of Sarah to Abraham: Sarah accepted her place in
God's arrangement.
"Lord" -- a title of honor; not deity. Gen. 18:12
Sarah recognized the supremacy of her husband in
their relationship.
"whose children"-- by following the example of Sarah.
Abraham is called "the father of the faithful."
Gal. 3:7; Rom. 4:11.
Note: John 8:29, if you are of Abraham, then act
like Abraham.
"if ye do well" -- the condition upon which they would
continue to be Sarah's children; like Sarah.
"terror" not the fear of verse 2, but frightening,
shuddering fear. Many had unbelieving husbands.
Thus, many had heavy burdens. Don't allow their
difficulties to keep them from doing their duties
as Christians.
2nd explanation -- By doing well, they would
not be brought into fearful consequences. A
righteous life would keep them from suffering
because of their actions, from a terrorizing
husband. Whereas, a rebellious life would cause
them to suffer from an evil husband.
(vs 7) Now to husbands:
"in like manner"--Husbands you also have responsibilities.
"dwell"-- day by day living, constant association.
NOTE: We can "put up" with someone whom we see only
occasionally. But, this relationship is daily,
continual. So, don't only "put up with them,"
"dwell" with them. A closeness not found in any
other relationship.
"according to knowledge" -- God's word MUST be the final
authority in all relationships. How urgent it is
for both husband and wife to allow God's Word to
guide them in every decision.
"honor" -- from same word translated "precious" in 1:19.
What a contrast to the pagan religions, who looked
upon women as little more than a slave, a mere
instrument to gratify man. In Christ, the woman is
to be treated with respect and honor.
"weaker vessel" -- not morally or spiritually, nor
intellectually. But, not physically endowed with
the strength of a man. Woman is more tender and
delicate; more susceptible to fatigue and toil;
more gentle; more dependent. this the way that God
created her.
"joint-heirs" -- she, too, has the same relationship to God
as does the man. they are on equal footage at the
cross; with life eternal awaiting both.
"grace of life" -- fellow Christians, equal heirs. Under
most all religions, women are still considered
inferior. NOT so in Christ.
"prayers be not hindered" -- "cut off" "to interrupt"
Where confusion and strife exists, prayers are
cut off or interrupted. "Mutual prayer is not
possible unless there is mutual love and
forbearance. Nor can the husband's prayers be
acceptable unless he treats his wife aright."
(Johnson)
(vs 8) "Finally" -- Conclusion to this segment to various classes.
Now, to all in their relation to each other.
"Likeminded"-- Unity of mind and purpose. Rom. 12:16. There
is no place for discord, bickering, ill feelings,
or strife among brethren. (K.J. "of one mind")
"compassionate" --same word as "sympathy." A regard for each
others welfare. Phil. 2:2-5; Rom. 12:15;
1 Cor 12:26; We MUST be concerned about each other
"loving as brethren"-- we have a common heritage, parentage,
Born into the same family, same Father, etc.
"tenderhearted" _ (K.J.-"pitiful) goodhearted, affectionate
"humble-minded"-- (K.J.-"courteous") opposite of
arrogance; or pride.
NOTE: How urgent it is that those who are God's
children work and labor together in love and
affection for each other. Great concern for one
another. Cf. Rom. 12:9-ff
(vs 9) "evil for evil" -- not giving back, or returning like kind.
The Christian does not retaliate; does not seek to
get even; whether in word or in deed. Cf. Mt 5:39.
Though reviled, the Christian does not respond in
like manner.
"contrariwise"-- The Christian reacts differently from those
in the world. Having received the greatest of all
blessings (forgiveness), we must extend blessings.
Mt. 5:44. One who has the hope of heaven should
abound in every virtue.
"called" -- to receive a blessing. Cf. 1:9.
to "inherit" a blessing. We are a part of a very
desirable endowment.
(vs 10) Quotation taken from Psalm 34:12-16. Peter verifies that
God has always demanded righteousness from His people.
"love life...." A good life. The Christian life.
"tongue" -- The child of God MUST control His speech.
Cf. 2:1--There is just no place for the child of God to
be abrasive, abusive, or harsh in his/her speech.
(vs 11) "turn away"-- shun, avoid appearance of evil--1 Thess 5:22.
Our lives (as well as our speech) must be under control
"seek peace" -- Not only avoid evil, but seek peace.
Both negative and positive side to Christianity.
(vs 12) "eyes"--We are under His continual watchcare.
"ears" -- He hears our prayers.
He sees and hears our every action.
"face"-- The other side of Jehovah. He simply will not
countenance evil. He does not overlook nor accept
any wrong. He never misses an action, or word.
NOTE: Peter is telling us that the life of a Christian
is most desirable. The world cannot offer you what
Christ offers to you.
(vs 13) "harm you" -- This is not to say that men will not injure
or persecute you. But, they cannot do you
permanent harm. Cf. Mt. 10:28.
They may physically cause you pain, even bring
about your death, but they cannot separate you
from the love of God.
"zealous"--be full of zeal, devoted, completely sold on
Christ Jesus. And His love.
(vs 14) Though man cannot cause one to suffer separation from a
loving Father, they can (and often do) bring about
sufferings to the Christian.
Peter sets the record straight. They might conclude that
with God's protection, they would befall no problems in
this life. NOT SO!!! Even in righteousness, suffering
is likely to come; yet, this is a blessedness.
Cf. Mt 5:10.
"fear not..." Do not allow the fear of the ungodly trouble
you. Though persecuted, there is no fear or
trouble in the life of the Christian. The child of
God can pillow his/her head in each night with the
full assurance that all is right with God.
(vs 15) "sanctify" -- to set apart, regard with reverence.
"But" -- rather than becoming fearful, allow Christ to
fill your heart.
"Christ" -- the anointed one.
"Lord" -- Master, one with all authority.
"Peter offers here direct and unequivocal testimony to
the deity of the Lord Jesus,and to his relationship to
the God of the universe." (Woods)
"being ready" -- be constant, ever anxious, to explain our
faith, our hope, to any who inquire.
This statement implies that we have a knowledge of
God's Word. How could one give an explanation if
they do not know. This is one reason, among many,
that we should study; that we should attend each
and every service, etc.
What is the hope within you? The reason for our
expectations of eternal life. (1:9)
"with meekness and fear"--We defend our belief with reason
and logic, not with arrogance or pride. We must be
free of scorn, haughtiness or bitterness. With a
fear of God and the judgment.
May we never come across as being self-righteous.
(vs 16) "good conscience" -- a firm conviction of a righteous life.
Doing nothing that would damage our conscience.
NOTE: (1) Conscience must be properly taught to know
what is right or wrong.
(2) Conscience must be obeyed or followed.
NOTE: It matters little how skillful our defense of the
gospel may be; how much knowledge we may present;
if our life does not reflect our teaching, we are
as "clinging cymbal." Cf. 1 Cor 13:1--ff.
There MUST be a harmony of our message and our
life for us to be effect and convincing.
"put to shame" -- Those who oppose you have no grounds for
their charges against you.
Be righteous and the false charges against you
will cause shame upon the accusers.
(vs 17) Cf. 2:20
The value of suffering for righteousness sake is often
emphasized in the epistle.
"if the will of God" -- If it should happen to be the will
God. Not a probability, but merely a possibility.
If you suffer, be sure it is for well-doing and not for
evil-doing. Even evil persons suffer for evil-
doing.
(vs 18) Christ Jesus is ever our example. No doubt the scene of the
crucifixion still burned deeply in the mind of the
apostle. (cf. 2:21)
"for sins"- (concerning) He suffered, not for His mistakes,
or sins, but for ours, MINE. Through His sufferings we
now have access to God. Rom. 5:2.
"once" -- It was not necessary for Christ to die often, as
under the law where there was continual offerings.
Cf. Catholic Mass today. Where they claim a continual
crucifixion.
"the righteous..." -- Christ suffered "on behalf of" the
unrighteous. Rom. 5:8.
"bring us to God" -- Result or purpose of His suffering,
without which we would be strangers to God.
"Put to death" "flesh" BUT "Made alive" "spirit"
Both are aorist passive participles, thus pointing to a
definite occasion when these happened.
Death affected only the flesh of Christ.
But, as He died in the flesh (on Calvary), He was made
alive (quickened) in the spirit.
"Flesh" and "Spirit" are often used opposed to each
other-- 1 Tim. 3:16
Indeed, Jesus was in the "flesh." He had all of the
attributes of the flesh (Rom. 1:2; John 1:14;
1 Tim. 3:16; 2 John 7, etc.); He even died a death
similar to all flesh.
But, He did not cease to exist when He died; His spirit
was not terminated; rather He was "made alive." At
death, His spirit passed into a new sphere of
existence; He was made alive.
John 17:5 -- Christ prayed that He might return to that
glory He enjoyed before becoming flesh. Paul
states that by the resurrection He was declared to
be the Son of God with power. Rom. 1:4. Thus, when
Christ was crucified, having completed His work in
the flesh, He was restored to the place He had
left with all of its glory and honor. Acts 1:9;
Acts 7:56. See also 1 Pet 3:22.
(vs 19) Not only was Christ once again in the place of Deity, but
was deity before He came to the earth. John 1:1-3.
Christ--Deity--------(33 years)--------Christ--Deity
(Christ in flesh)
"in which"--As the eternal Spirit, Christ went and preached
to spirits in prison. WHEN? AND HOW?
"spirits in prison" -- Called spirits because they were in a
disembodied state when Peter wrote; In prison
often used to denote a state or condition where
these disobedient ones are being kept awaiting
judgment. This is where they were when Peter
writes.
When did Christ go and preach to them? While they were
in the flesh, during the days of Noah.
"preached" -- How? The preaching was done through His agent-
-Noah.
NOTE: Eph. 2:17 - He "came and preached to the
Gentiles." Did Christ personally preach to the
Gentiles after His resurrection? NO. The preaching
was done through the apostles. Paul was the agent
through whom Christ preached. So, also Noah was
the agent through whom Christ preached. 2 Pet 2:5
NOTE: Nothing here that remotely suggest the
idea of "Purgatory" and the doctrine that those
who have died may escape from "Purgatory" by the
actions of some still living who perform acts in
their regard. Jesus states there is a "great
gulf" between the righteous dead and the
unrighteous dead and no one can pass over.
Luke 16:26.
(vs 20) "Aforetime" -- These "spirits" were at one time in the
flesh. They were disobedient. The time of their
disobedience was "while the ark was a preparing."
"longsuffering" Jehovah was patient with that generation for
120 years (Gen. 6:3). No doubt they had many
opportunities to respond; but refused.
"wherein few" -- The few (8 souls) were saved in the ark.
The ark was their means of salvation, while the
waters cleansed the earth of sin. thus, water was
the element used by God to separate righteous Noah
from the wickedness of that generation.
(vs 21) "Which.."-- Baptism plays a "likeness" role in man's
salvation today. Noah's salvation is a TYPE of our
salvation..
Baptism is chosen by our Lord as the element used to
cleanse man. Obviously, it is the blood of Christ
that cleanses man, but the act of baptism brings
one into His death, where the blood was shed. As
water saved Noah from perishing in the time of
God's wrath upon that generation, so baptism saves
man from perishing. Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts
22:16, etc.
NOTE: This is WATER BAPTISM. "Which also..." Peter is
discussing a likeness between Noah's salvation and
ours. Clearly it was water used in Noah's case.
So, also in our case. Water is not the Savior, but
the element used by God for cleansing. Cf. Naaman,
2 Kings 5:14.
"filth of flesh" -- Baptism does not remove dirt from our
physical body, nor it is only a ceremonial
cleansing of the flesh as practiced under the Law
of Moses. Baptism is a condition upon which the
Lord forgives sin. It is through baptism that the
"conscience" is made right with God.
"resurrection" -- All of this rests upon the fact that
Christ has been raised from the grave. Were it not
for the resurrection, salvation would not be
possible.
(vs 22) "Right hand" -- Ps. 110:1; Rom 8:34; Eph 1:20; Heb. 1:3.
Position of honor, dignity and power.
Christ has all authority -- Matt. 28:18-21
Christ is more than a mere man in heaven. He has
now returned to the position He was in before
He left heaven to become flesh.
John 17:2,5--returned to the same glory which He
had before coming in the flesh.
John 6:40--Jesus promises to raise the dead at the
last day.
John 9:35-38--Jesus accepted worship (Mt. 14:33;
Mt. 28:9; Mt. 8:2). Peter (an apostle) would
not. Acts 10:25,26.
Mark 2:3-7--Jesus forgave sins; yet, only Deity
can forgive sins. Isa. 43:25.
NOTE: Rev. 1:8; 1:17,18; 2:8 -- Whatever Jesus was
before He became flesh, He now is. John 20:30,
31--His signs showed His deity. Mt. 1:23 --
"call His name Immanuel,...God with us."
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