What does 1 Peter 1:15 mean?

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 1 Peter 1:15

Explanation

The verse 1 Peter 1:15, “[But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;]” is an exhortation from the Apostle Peter to the recipients of his letter, urging them to live a life of holiness. The word “conversation” in this context refers not just to spoken words but to one’s entire conduct or behavior. The literal meaning is straightforward: followers of Christ are called to emulate God’s holiness in all aspects of their lives.

The deeper meaning of this verse touches upon the transformative power of God’s calling. The calling is from a holy God and therefore it not only sets a standard but also imparts on believers a sacredness in their way of life. Holiness here is understood as being set apart, distinct from the world, pure, and morally impeccable, reflecting the character of God.

Historical Context

1 Peter is often dated to around 60-65 AD and is traditionally believed to be penned by the Apostle Peter. The letter is addressed to Christians scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, which are areas in modern-day Turkey. These early Christians were experiencing various forms of persecution and trials, hence Peter’s letter was meant to encourage and instruct them on how to live as Christians in the face of adversity.

The call to holy living, therefore, comes in the context of suffering and societal pressures to conform to pagan standards. The believers are reminded that God’s call to be holy remains despite the cultural and historical challenges they are facing.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints approach this verse with varying emphases:

• Augustinian/Catholic: May stress the need for grace to achieve holiness, as it is through God’s grace that one is able to lead a holy life.
• Calvinist/Reformed: Might focus on the doctrine of the election and sanctification, where those who are called are also predestined to become holy as God is.
• Arminian/Wesleyan: Would emphasize the cooperation between human free will and divine grace in the process of sanctification.
• Pentecostal/Charismatic: Could highlight the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering believers to live a holy life.

Practical Applications

In terms of practical applications, this verse encourages Christians to:

• Continuously examine and align their behavior with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
• Be intentional in how they speak, act, and interact with others, showing forth the holiness of God in their daily lives.
• Separate themselves from practices and ethics that are contrary to Christian teachings.
• Remember their identity as those who are called to be different and to represent God’s kingdom ethics in the world.

Cross-References

• Leviticus 11:44: “For I am the LORD your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy…”
• Matthew 5:48: “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
• Ephesians 1:4: “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:”
• 2 Corinthians 7:1: “…let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of 1 Peter 1:15 include:

• “Holy” (Greek: ἅγιος, hagios): This word means set apart, sacred, different from the common or unclean. Its root conveys the idea of purity and moral blamelessness.
• “Conversation” (Greek: ἀναστροφή, anastrophē): Though translated as “conversation,” it actually denotes the whole conduct or manner of life, including actions and interactions with others.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison with other ancient religions and myths:

• Many ancient religions also had concepts of holiness or purity, often linked with ritualistic practices or moral codes.
• The Hebrew conception of holiness as presented in the Old Testament was unique in its moral and ethical dimensions, which is carried into and developed in the New Testament.

Scientific Perspectives

The call to holiness in 1 Peter 1:15 is a moral and ethical directive and does not directly interact with scientific understandings. However, the concept of moral behavior can be studied by psychological and sociological sciences in terms of its effects on individuals and societies.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators have various perspectives on this verse:

• John Calvin saw this as an admonition that believers should reflect the God who has called them in every aspect of their life, especially amidst persecution.
• Matthew Henry emphasized the pervasiveness of the call to holiness, stating that it should shape every action, word, and thought of the believer.
• William Barclay discussed the idea of holiness as not just being set apart but positively as being different in the sense of being better in kindness, purity, and patience.