What does 1 Peter 3:21 mean?

The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: 1 Peter 3:21

Explanation

1 Peter 3:21 speaks of baptism as a figure or symbol for salvation. It contrasts the physical act of washing dirt from the body with the spiritual significance of baptism, which the apostle Peter relates to a clear conscience toward God. The verse emphasizes that baptism is not merely about the removal of physical impurities but is an appeal to God for a clean conscience, which is made possible through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In essence, this verse connects the ritual of baptism with the believer’s internal faith response to the work of Jesus on the cross and His resurrection.

Historical Context

1 Peter 3:21 is found within the First Epistle of Peter, a letter traditionally believed to have been written by the Apostle Peter to encourage Christians living in Asia Minor who were facing persecution. The letter was likely composed around A.D. 60-64, a time when Nero was emperor of Rome, and when Christians were experiencing increasing hostility. The context of this passage relates to suffering and how Christians should respond to it, with Peter using the example of Noah’s salvation through water to analogize how baptism represents believers being saved through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Theological Insights

Theologically, 1 Peter 3:21 can be viewed from different angles:

• Baptists and Evangelicals typically interpret this verse as symbolic, seeing baptism as an outward sign of inward faith, not a means of salvation but a testimony of it.
• Catholics and Orthodox Christians often cite this verse as substantiating the sacramental nature of baptism, viewing it as a necessary part of salvation that imparts grace.
• Reformed theology might focus on the phrase “answer of a good conscience toward God,” interpreting it as reflecting the believer’s assurance and faith in the salvation won by Christ.

Practical Applications

1 Peter 3:21 urges believers to:

• View baptism as more than a ritual; see it as a pledge of a life committed to God.
• Reflect on the spiritual cleansing and renewal that accompanies genuine repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
• Consider their conscience and relationship with God, seeking to maintain integrity and a clear conscience through faith in Christ’s saving work.

Cross-References

• Romans 6:3-4: “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
• Acts 22:16: “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”
• Colossians 2:12: “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.”

Language Study

In the Greek text, the key phrase “the answer of a good conscience toward God” (επερώτημα εἰς θεόν συνειδήσεως ἀγαθῆς) carries significant meaning:

• “επερώτημα” (eperotema) often translates to “pledge” or “appeal,” giving the sense of a believer’s sincere pledge or response to God.
• “συνειδήσεως” (suneideseos) is the word for “conscience,” indicating an inner awareness or moral consciousness.
• “ἀγαθῆς” (agathes) means “good” or “clear,” referring to the state of the conscience after this spiritual transaction.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of water as a means of purification is common in many cultures and religions, including Hinduism with its ritual baths in the Ganges, and Judaism with the practice of Mikveh. These external purifications are often seen as reflections or metaphors for internal purification.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the act of baptism is simply the immersion or application of water to the body. However, the psychological and sociological effects of participating in religious rituals are significant, leading to a sense of community, commitment, and personal transformation.

Commentaries

Commentators have diverse opinions on 1 Peter 3:21:

• Matthew Henry sees baptism as “the answer of a good conscience towards God,” signifying that it is a kind of engagement to be the Lord’s.
• John Calvin believes that baptism is not a symbol that automatically confers grace, but that it is an evidence of our faith and repentance.
• Adam Clarke suggests that the “answer” is a covenant that the baptized person makes with God to live as becomes the gospel.