What does 1 Peter 3:17 mean?

For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. 1 Peter 3:17

Explanation

1 Peter 3:17 deals with the concept of suffering for righteousness. The apostle Peter encourages his readers to maintain good behavior, even if it leads to suffering. The verse suggests that it’s preferable, according to God’s will, to face adversity for doing what is morally correct rather than for committing wrongful actions. On a deeper level, it implies an acknowledgment that suffering is part of the Christian experience and that it has a place in God’s plan, especially when it results from adhering to one’s ethical and spiritual convictions.

Historical Context

The Epistle of 1 Peter was written during a time when early Christians faced persecution for their faith. The apostle Peter addresses the churches in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) who were experiencing social ostracism, harsh treatment, and possibly worse forms of persecution. The letter serves as an encouragement to stay faithful in the face of suffering, suggesting that it was written during the reign of the Roman Emperor Nero or shortly afterward, a period notorious for its harsh treatment of Christians.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, 1 Peter 3:17 presents a paradox: suffering can be a positive, even commendable, experience when it is for “well-doing” as part of God’s will. This idea aligns with the concept of redemptive suffering in Christian theology, which sees value in suffering for righteous reasons, as it mirrors the suffering of Christ. Some theological perspectives also view this verse as an affirmation of divine providence, where even difficult circumstances are under God’s sovereign control and serve a greater purpose.

Practical Applications

The message of 1 Peter 3:17 can be applied in various practical ways:

• It encourages individuals to act ethically and maintain integrity, even when facing negative consequences.
• It offers comfort to those who are unjustly persecuted, assuring them that their suffering is not in vain.
• It serves as a reminder to assess one’s actions and sufferings, and to align them with godly values rather than selfish pursuits.

Cross-References

• Matthew 5:10 – “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
• Romans 5:3-4 – “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;”
• James 1:2-3 – “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.”

Language Study

The key phrases in this verse are “better,” “will of God,” and “suffer for well-doing.”

• “Better” (Greek: kreitton) indicates a preference or more advantageous choice.
• “Will of God” (Greek: thelēma tou Theou) refers to God’s purpose or desired course of action.
• “Suffer for well-doing” (Greek: pascho hypo agathopoieo) captures enduring hardship as a consequence of one’s good deeds or righteous conduct.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient Greek and Roman culture, suffering was often seen as something to be avoided or an indication of disfavor by the gods. In contrast, the early Christian view, exemplified by 1 Peter 3:17, presents suffering for a just cause as commendable. Other religious traditions also value the notion of enduring suffering for moral or spiritual reasons, such as the concept of martyrdom in Islam and the idea of karma in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific understandings generally do not intersect directly with spiritual perspectives on suffering. However, psychological research supports the idea that finding meaning in suffering can contribute to greater personal resilience and growth, a concept that echoes the message of turning adversity into a positive experience as suggested in 1 Peter 3:17.

Commentaries

Commentators provide various insights into this verse:

• Some suggest that the apostle Peter is providing a counsel of spiritual realism, acknowledging the inevitability of suffering and pointing believers towards an inner preparation for it.
• Others highlight that Peter sets a clear distinction between suffering for doing good versus suffering for doing evil, with a moral imperative to choose the former.
• The concept of divine will is often emphasized, noting that the verse suggests a connection between enduring hardship for good and the fulfillment of God’s plans.