What does 1 Peter 2:2 mean?

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 1 Peter 2:2

Explanation

1 Peter 2:2 employs the metaphor of newborn babies to convey the eagerness and purity with which believers should crave the teachings of God’s word. Just as infants instinctively desire milk that is vital for their growth and well-being, Christians are encouraged to long for the “pure” or “sincere” milk of the word – that is, the unadulterated teachings of the Bible. The deeper meaning here is the connection between spiritual nourishment and growth; exposure to and assimilation of the word of God results in the believer maturing in their faith.

Historical Context

1 Peter is traditionally believed to be written by the Apostle Peter or someone writing on his behalf to Christians in various regions of Asia Minor who were undergoing persecution and suffering. Composed around 60-65 AD, the letter addresses how to live a holy life amid trials, encouraging steadfast faith despite adversity. The metaphor of milk in this context also reflects a cultural understanding where milk represents basic, fundamental nourishment, starkly contrasting with the sophisticated but potentially corrupting philosophies circulating in Greek and Roman societies at the time.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse communicates the fundamental importance of Scripture in the life of a Christian. Many commentators would argue that spiritual growth is contingent on knowing and understanding God’s word. A Calvinist might emphasize total depravity and argue that just as babies cannot survive without milk, people cannot grow spiritually without the word of God, underscoring the dependence of humans on divine revelation. An Arminian might focus on the voluntary aspect of desiring the word, aligning with the concept of free will and personal responsibility in spiritual growth.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied practically by encouraging believers to prioritize Bible study and meditate on scriptures regularly. The simile also suggests approaching God’s word with humility and an open heart, as a child would, free of preconceptions or cynicism. It supports the idea of being part of a learning community, just like infants need caregivers, Christians benefit from teachers and fellow believers. This can involve participating in church services, Bible studies, and personal devotionals.

Cross-References

• Matthew 18:3: “And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.”
• Hebrews 5:12-13: “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.”
• Psalm 19:7: “The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.”
• 1 Corinthians 3:2: “I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for “desire” is “ἐπιποθήσατε” (epipothésate), which means to long for or yearn intensely. “Newborn babes” is translated from “νηπιάζοντα” (nēpiázonta), emphasizing the state of being newly born or infantile. The word “sincere” comes from “ἀδόλου” (adolou), which literally means without deceit, guile, or adulteration. Finally, “milk” is from “γάλα” (gala), a straightforward translation analogous to physical nutrition, but used metaphorically for spiritual sustenance here.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, the importance of milk as a primary source of nutrition for infants was well understood, which would make this metaphor accessible to diverse audiences. In other religious traditions, such as Hinduism, milk also has significant connotations, often associated with purity and as an offering to deities. This simile of desiring pure milk can be seen as a universally understood symbol for the innate human need for sustenance, both physically and spiritually.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the analogy of milk is appropriate as it is essential for the growth and development of infants, providing necessary nutrients for their health and well-being. Biochemically, it contains a balance of carbs, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals specifically designed to meet a baby’s developmental needs. Similarly, the verse implies that spiritual “milk,” or foundational religious teachings, can be thought of as necessary sustenance for the growth and well-being of a believer.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentaries offer insights on this verse from multiple Christian traditions and understanding of scriptural interpretations. For example, Matthew Henry’s commentary underscores the importance of a sincere and earnest approach to scripture, stating that we should long for God’s word as babies cry out for their milk. John MacArthur might emphasize the inherent need for the word of God for spiritual survival and growth. These commentaries, among others, all tend to agree on the fundamental need for Christians to immerse themselves in the holy scriptures as the means to grow and mature in their faith.