What does 1 Peter 1:17 mean?

And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: 1 Peter 1:17

Explanation

1 Peter 1:17 encourages believers to live their lives with a sense of reverence and awe towards God. Here, Peter addresses the believers as “sojourners,” highlighting their temporary stay on earth and calling them to live a life that is conscious of God’s impartial judgment. The apostle emphasizes that God judges each person’s actions without favoritism, which suggests the need for a respectful and godly fear. This fear is not terror but a profound respect for God’s authority and an awareness of the accountability one has before Him. Understanding that their actions hold eternal significance, believers are encouraged to live in a way that honors God during their earthly lives.

Historical Context

1 Peter was written by the Apostle Peter around A.D. 60-65. This period was during the early Christian church and was a time of persecution for Christians. The recipients of this letter were experiencing various trials and suffering. Peter is encouraging them to persevere and conduct themselves in a manner worthy of God’s approval. He reminds them that their ultimate judge is God and not those who persecute them. This message was particularly salient given the social and political climate of the time, where being a Christian could lead to severe consequences.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse encapsulates key Christian doctrines, like the impartiality of God, who judges justly and without favoritism. It also touches on the concept of sanctification, where believers are expected to live holy lives as a response to God’s call. The notion of fear in this context is often interpreted to mean a filial reverence—both a loving respect and godly fear due to the recognition of God’s holiness.

Different Christian traditions interpret “fear” in various ways. Some emphasize it as a deterrent from sin, while others view it as deeper awe and respect for God that enhances one’s faith. The verse reinforces the idea that one’s faith should have an ethical dimension, materialized through honorable conduct.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of 1 Peter 1:17 are timeless. This verse can serve as a reminder to live a life of integrity and ethical behavior, aware that actions have consequences not just in this life, but also in the eyes of God. It suggests that one should take their earthly journey seriously, making choices that reflect a deep respect for God’s commands. Believers are encouraged to self-reflect on their actions regularly and to live humbly, knowing that their time here is temporary, and they will be accountable to God.

Cross-References

• Acts 10:34: “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:”
• Romans 2:6-11: “[…] who will render to every man according to his deeds: […]”
• Hebrews 12:28: “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:”
• 2 Corinthians 5:10: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.”

Language Study

The Greek word for “without respect of persons” is “ἀπροσωπολήμπτως” (aprosōpolēmptōs), literally meaning without receiving a face, indicating impartiality. The term “judgeth” translates from “κρίνοντος” (krinontos), suggesting an ongoing process of judgment based on actions, not a one-time event. “Work” in Greek is “ἔργον” (ergon), referring to deeds or actions. Lastly, the word for “fear” is “φόβῳ” (phobō), which in this context indicates reverential fear, piety, and respect rather than terror or dread.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this verse to other ancient cultures, many emphasized honoring deities through actions and rituals, fearing divine retribution. In Judaism, living with “fear of God” is a common theme, found in both wisdom literature and historical narratives, creating a similar parallel.

In broader religious traditions, karma in Hinduism and Buddhism reflects the idea that actions have consequences. However, unlike the Christian view of judgment from a personal God, karma is seen as a law of cause and effect.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific perspectives might interpret the concept of living in fear as counterproductive to psychological health. However, understanding “fear” as a deep respect and conscious awareness of moral and ethical standards, aligns with various psychological theories that emphasize the importance of living with a sense of purpose and a moral compass. Furthermore, the verse’s focus on transient existence echoes the understanding of life’s impermanence, a concept also explored in many philosophical and existential reflections within the psychological field.

Commentaries

Commentators such as Matthew Henry have suggested that this verse assures believers that God’s impartial judgment makes no distinction based on external factors but is solely based on a person’s deeds. It serves as a comfort but also a warning. John Calvin emphasizes the transformation that fear brings about in the believer’s life, leading them to reverence and obedience. Modern-day commentators like N.T. Wright may explore the cultural implications of the verse and how the early Christian community would have understood the call to holiness in the face of societal pressure against their beliefs.