What does 1 Peter 3:22 mean?

Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. 1 Peter 3:22

Explanation

The verse 1 Peter 3:22 refers to Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven after His resurrection, and His exaltation at the right hand of God. This position denotes a place of honor and authority. The phrase “angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him” indicates the supremacy of Christ over all spiritual beings and powers, whether they are angelic or otherwise. It implies that Jesus has been given dominion over the entire universe and His authority is recognized by all.

Historical Context

1 Peter is an epistle traditionally attributed to the Apostle Peter and addressed to various churches in Asia Minor (present-day Turkey). It was likely written between AD 60-65. This was a time of early persecution for Christians, under the reign of Emperor Nero or not long after. The epistle is potentially written in the context of suffering and is meant to offer hope and instruction on how to live holy lives in the face of adversity. The exaltation of Christ as mentioned in this verse would have been particularly encouraging to readers who needed reassurance of the ultimate authority of their Lord.

Theological Insights

From a Trinitarian Christian perspective, this verse underpins the doctrine of Christ’s exaltation and His divine authority over all creation. It emphasizes the belief in Jesus’ resurrection and ascension as historical events with cosmic significance, affirming His role in salvation and as a mediator between God and humanity. Non-Trinitarian views might interpret this verse differently, some seeing it as an honor bestowed upon Jesus rather than evidence of inherent divinity. The phrase also has eschatological implications, suggesting that at the end of time, all beings will acknowledge Christ’s lordship.

Practical Applications

1 Peter 3:22 can provide comfort to believers, reminding them that despite life’s struggles, Jesus Christ reigns supreme and has overcome the world’s powers. It can be a source of strength, knowing that no spiritual force is beyond His control. This assurance can encourage Christians to face their daily challenges with faith and confidence. It can also inspire them to live righteously under the reign of Christ, recognizing that their actions should align with the will of the One with all authority.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 1:20-22: “Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet…”
• Hebrews 1:3-4: “Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.”
• Philippians 2:9-11: “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Language Study

Key words in this verse, from the original Greek, include:

• “Gone into” (poreutheis): implies having traveled or departed, indicating Jesus’ transition from earth to heaven.
• “Right hand” (dexia): often signifies a place of honor, power, and authority in Jewish culture.
• “Angels” (angeloi): typically denotes messenger beings that serve God.
• “Authorities” (exousiai): can refer to those with decision-making power or control, suggesting various kinds of spiritual rulers.
• “Powers” (dynameis): denotes forces or potentates, often used to discuss supernatural or spiritual strength.

This linguistic analysis helps to elaborate on the extent of Jesus’ exaltation and the scope of His dominion.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient religions, the concept of a god ascending into heaven and exerting authority over other deities or spirits is not unheard of. For example, in Roman and Greek mythology, figures like Zeus or Jupiter are seen as ruling over the pantheon of gods. However, the distinctive Christian claim in this verse is not just about a hierarchy of deities but about the unique exaltation of Jesus Christ who, according to Christian belief, is both divine and human, and whose authority extends over all realms of existence.

Scientific Perspectives

Generally, this verse does not offer a scientific claim or hypothesis that can be tested or evaluated by the scientific method. It is a theological statement grounded in religious belief about the supernatural realm and Jesus’ ascension and authority. The concepts of angels, authorities, powers, and a physical ascension into heaven as understood in the biblical context, are not concepts within the realm of science but are matters of faith.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have interpreted 1 Peter 3:22 with various emphases. Some, like Matthew Henry, focus on the triumph of Christ over suffering and death, as well as His ascension as a confirmation of His divine mission. Others, such as John Calvin, regard this verse as a source of solace to believers, affirming that Christ, who has subdued all spiritual adversaries, can also protect and save His followers. Contemporary theologians might highlight the verse’s relevance to Christian ethics, seeing Jesus’ lordship as a model for servant leadership and a call to righteous living amid a world of conflicting powers.