What does 1 Peter 1:23 mean?

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. 1 Peter 1:23

Explanation

1 Peter 1:23 speaks about the concept of spiritual rebirth and highlights the imperishable nature of the divine influence that generates this rebirth. This verse contrasts the perishable nature of human origin – “corruptible seed” as meant in a literal or physical sense – with the spiritual new birth that Christians experience through the enduring word of God. The phrase “not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible” suggests that this rebirth is not due to a physical or mortal origin, but it is a spiritual transformation. It is “by the word of God” that believers are born again, which implies that the preaching and acceptance of the gospel are instrumental in this process. The statement “which liveth and abideth for ever” signifies that the word of God is eternal and unchanging, unlike the fleeting and transient things of the world.

Historical Context

The First Epistle of Peter is an early Christian document that is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Peter and was likely written around AD 60-65. This was a period of great persecution for Christians under the Roman Empire. The recipients of this letter were experiencing suffering, trials, and were often ostracized from their communities. The intent behind Peter’s letter was to offer encouragement, instruct on holy living, and provide hope through the knowledge of their salvation and inheritance in Christ.

Theological Insights

Theologically, there are several insights from this verse:

• The concept of being “born again” is critical to Christian doctrine and emphasizes the transformative power of becoming a Christian.
• The ‘incorruptible seed’ implies that the spiritual identity and inheritance of Christians cannot be defiled or destroyed.
• This verse underscores the eternality and enduring truth of God’s word, which is the agent of this rebirth, rather than human effort or means.
• Some religious scholars may view this passage as reflective of the ongoing debate over predestination versus free will, considering the passive nature in which rebirth is received.
• The “living” nature of God’s word may also signify its active and dynamic nature, which can penetrate human hearts and engender spiritual transformation.

Practical Applications

Practical applications of this verse in daily life include:

• An understanding that the Christian identity is rooted in something eternal and divine, promoting a sense of hope and purpose.
• Encouragement for believers to align their lives with the eternal word of God, rather than the temporary allures of the world.
• Motivation for individuals to share the gospel, as it has the power to transform lives.
• For believers to find comfort during trials, knowing their spiritual rebirth has granted them a lasting place with God.

Cross-References

• John 3:3 – “Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
• James 1:18 – “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
• Matthew 24:35 – “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”

Language Study

Key words in this verse include:

• “Born again” (Greek: ἀναγεγεννημένοι, anagegennēmenoi) refers to being spiritually regenerated or renewed.
• “Corruptible” (Greek: φθαρτός, phthartos) signifies something that is perishable or destructible.
• “Incorruptible” (Greek: ἄφθαρτος, aphthartos) means imperishable or indestructible.
• “Word of God” (Greek: λόγου Θεοῦ, logou Theou) refers to the message, teachings, or commands of God, often associated with the gospel.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Within other ancient religions and cultures, concepts of rebirth and transformation are also present. For example, in Egyptian mythology, the idea of afterlife and resurrection is central, although the specifics are different from Christian theology. Similarly, Hinduism speaks of spiritual rebirth through reincarnation, yet it diverges from the Christian concept of a one-time spiritual regeneration.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the concept of being “born again” is not an empirical claim subject to scientific evaluation. However, scientists have studied the psychological and societal effects of religious conversion experiences, finding both positive and negative impacts on individual wellbeing and behavior.

Commentaries

Different commentaries offer varied insights into 1 Peter 1:23:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the importance of the word of God as the seed of the new birth, and the enduring nature of God’s truth as a foundation for the believer’s hope.
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary highlights the contrast Peter makes between the ephemeral nature of human heritage and the eternal, divine nature of spiritual rebirth.
• The New International Commentary on the New Testament stresses that this verse should inspire the believers’ confidence and ethical response due to the permanence of their rebirth through God’s word.