1 Peter 2:1
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore, laying aside - This is in close connection with the preceding chapter, from which it should not have been separated, and the subject is continued to the end of the 10th verse. Laying aside all malice - See the notes on Eph 4:22-31 (note). These tempers and dispositions must have been common among the Jews, as they are frequently spoken against: Christianity can never admit of such; they show the mind, not of Christ, but of the old murderer.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore, laying aside all malice,.... Since the persons the apostle writes to were born again, and therefore ought to love one another, he exhorts them to the disuse of such vices as were disagreeable to their character as regenerate men, and contrary brotherly love; he dissuades them from them, and advises to "lay them aside", either as weights and burdens, which it was not fit for new born babes to carry; see Heb 12:1 or rather as old worn out clothes, as filthy rags, which should be put off, laid by, and never used more, being what were very unsuitable to their character and profession to wear: the metaphor is the same as in Eph 4:22 and the first he mentions is malice; to live in which is a mark of an unregenerate man, and very unbecoming such who are born again; and is not consistent with the relation of brethren, and character of children, or new born babes, who are without malice, and do not bear and retain it: "all" of this is to be laid aside, towards all persons whatever, and in every shape, and in every instance of it: and all guile; fraud, or deceit, in words or actions; and which should not be found, and appear in any form, in Israelites indeed, in brethren, in the children of God; who ought not to lie one to another, or defraud each other, nor express that with their lips which they have not in their hearts; which babes are free from, and so should babes in Christ: and hypocrisies; both to God and men: hypocrisy to God is, when persons profess that which they have not, as love to God, faith in Christ, zeal for religion, fervent devotion, and sincerity in the worship of God; and do all they do to be seen of men, and appear outwardly righteous, and yet are full of all manner of iniquity: hypocrisy to men is, pretence of friendship, loving in word and tongue only, speaking peaceably with the mouth, but in heart laying wait; a sin to be abhorred and detested by one that is born from above; and is contrary to that integrity, simplicity, and sincerity of heart, which become regenerate persons, the children of God, and brethren one of another: and envies; at each other's happiness and prosperity, riches, honours, gifts temporal or spiritual; for such are works of the flesh, show men to be carnal, are unbecoming regenerated persons, and contrary to the exercise of Christian charity, or love, which envieth not the welfare of others, either respecting body, soul, or estate: and all evil speakings; backbitings, whisperings, detractions, hurting one another's characters by innuendos, false charges, and evil surmises; which is not acting like men that are made new creatures, and are partakers of the divine nature, nor like brethren, or as Christ's little ones, and who are of God, begotten again to be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The holy apostle has been recommending mutual charity, and setting forth the excellences of the word of God, calling it an incorruptible seed, and saying that it liveth and abideth for ever. He pursues his discourse, and very properly comes in with this necessary advice, Wherefore laying aside all malice, etc. These are such sins as both destroy charity and hinder the efficacy of the word, and consequently they prevent our regeneration. I. His advice is to lay aside or put off what is evil, as one would do an old rotten garment: "Cast it away with indignation, never put it on more." 1. The sins to be put off, or thrown aside, are, (1.) Malice, which may be taken more generally for all sorts of wickedness, as Jam 1:21; Co1 5:8. But, in a more confined sense, malice is anger resting in the bosom of fools, settled overgrown anger, retained till it inflames a man to design mischief, to do mischief, or delight in any mischief that befalls another. (2.) Guile, or deceit in words. So it comprehends flattery, falsehood, and delusion, which is a crafty imposing upon another's ignorance or weakness, to his damage. (3.) Hypocrisies. The word being plural comprehends all sorts of hypocrisies. In matters of religion hypocrisy is counterfeit piety. In civil conversation hypocrisy is counterfeit friendship, which is much practised by those who give high compliments, which they do not believe, make promises which they never intend to perform, or pretend friendship when mischief lies in their hearts. (4.) All envies; every thing that may be called envy, which is a grieving at the good and welfare of another, at their abilities, prosperity, fame, or successful labours. (5.) Evil speaking, which is detraction, speaking against another, or defaming him; it is rendered backbiting, Co2 12:20; Rom 1:30. 2. Hence learn, (1.) The best Christians have need to be cautioned and warned against the worst sins, such as malice, hypocrisy, envy. They are but sanctified in part, and are still liable to temptations. (2.) Our best services towards God will neither please him nor profit us if we be not conscientious in our duties to men. The sins here mentioned are offences against the second table. These must be laid aside, or else we cannot receive the word of God as we ought to do. (3.) Whereas it is said all malice, all guile, learn, That one sin, not laid aside, will hinder our spiritual profit and everlasting welfare. (4.) Malice, envy, hatred, hypocrisy, and evil-speaking, generally go together. Evil-speaking is a sign that malice and guile lie in the heart; and all of them combine to hinder our profiting by the word of God. II. The apostle, like a wise physician, having prescribed the purging out of vicious humours, goes on to direct to wholesome and regular food, that they may grow thereby. The duty exhorted to is a strong and constant desire for the word of God, which word is here called reasonable milk, only, this phrase not being proper English, our translators rendered it the milk of the word, by which we are to understand food proper for the soul, or a reasonable creature, whereby the mind, not the body, is nourished and strengthened. This milk of the word must be sincere, not adulterated by the mixtures of men, who often corrupt the word of God, Co2 2:17. The manner in which they are to desire this sincere milk of the word is stated thus: As new-born babes. He puts them in mind of their regeneration. A new life requires suitable food. They, being newly born, must desire the milk of the word. Infants desire common milk, and their desires towards it are fervent and frequent, arising from an impatient sense of hunger, and accompanied with the best endeavours of which the infant is capable. Such must Christians' desires be for the word of God: and that for this end, that they may grow thereby, that we may improve in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Pe2 3:18. Learn, 1. Strong desires and affections to the word of God are a sure evidence of a person's being born again. If they be such desires as the babe has for the milk, they prove that the person is new-born. They are the lowest evidence, but yet they are certain. 2. Growth and improvement in wisdom and grace are the design and desire of every Christian; all spiritual means are for edification and improvement. The word of God, rightly used, does not leave a man as it finds him, but improves and makes him better. III. He adds an argument from their own experience: If so be, or since that, or forasmuch as, you have tasted that the Lord is gracious, Pe1 2:3. The apostle does not express a doubt, but affirms that these good Christians had tasted the goodness of God, and hence argues with them. "You ought to lay aside these vile sins (Pe1 2:1); you ought to desire the word of God; you ought to grow thereby, since you cannot deny but that you have tasted that the Lord is gracious." The next verse assures us that the Lord here spoken of is the Lord Jesus Christ. Hence learn, 1. Our Lord Jesus Christ is very gracious to his people. He is in himself infinitely good; he is very kind, free, and merciful to miserable sinners; he is pitiful and good to the undeserving; he has in him a fulness of grace. 2. The graciousness of our Redeemer is best discovered by an experimental taste of it. There must be an immediate application of the object to the organ of taste; we cannot taste at a distance, as we may see, and hear, and smell. To taste the graciousness of Christ experimentally supposes our being united to him by faith, and then we may taste his goodness in all his providences, in all our spiritual concerns, in all our fears and temptations, in his word and worship every day. 3. The best of God's servants have in this life but a taste of the grace of Christ. A taste is but a little; it is not a draught, nor does it satisfy. It is so with the consolations of God in this life. 4. The word of God is the great instrument whereby he discovers and communicates his grace to men. Those who feed upon the sincere milk of the word taste and experience most of his grace. In our converses with his word we should endeavour always to understand and experience more and more of his grace.
1 Peter 2:1
The Living Stone and Chosen People
1Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander.2Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Reverential Fear of God
By Zac Poonen2.3K1:08:101CO 2:32CO 7:1EPH 5:21PHP 2:12HEB 4:11PE 1:171PE 2:11PE 2:171PE 2:211PE 3:11PE 3:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of reverent fear of God in our lives, highlighting the need to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, to live in obedience and holiness, and to be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. It addresses the danger of moving from legalism to a state of no covenant, where secret sins and worldliness can creep in, leading to a decline in godliness. The speaker urges a return to a healthy balance, seeking God earnestly, fasting, praying, and evaluating our lives regularly to ensure we are walking in the true grace of God.
The Purpose of the Cross
By David Ravenhill1.9K1:18:51MAT 24:11ACT 20:281CO 6:19EPH 5:251PE 2:12PE 2:1REV 5:9This sermon emphasizes the deeper purpose of the cross beyond just forgiveness of sins, highlighting the need for believers to surrender their lives to God and live for His glory. It warns about the danger of false teachings that can subtly infiltrate the church and lead people astray, emphasizing the importance of discernment and staying true to the true teachings of the Bible.
The New Birth
By Charles Anderson1.8K00:00New Birth1PE 2:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of different levels of light in the world, starting from the mineral world and progressing to the human world. He uses the analogy of grass and flowers to illustrate this progression. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of Christians laying aside malice, guile, hypocrisies, envies, and evil speaking. He challenges the notion that Christians are exempt from these negative traits and emphasizes the fallen nature inherited by all humans.
Battling the Unbelief of Envy
By John Piper1.6K32:46PSA 37:1PRO 23:17ROM 8:321CO 3:20GAL 5:261PE 2:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of envy and how it can hinder our joy and concern for others. He shares a story from the Bible about the lad with the five loaves and two fish to illustrate how delighting in the Lord can help overcome envy. The speaker emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and finding contentment in Him, as He promises to satisfy all our desires. He also highlights several Bible verses that prohibit envy and provide reassurance of God's provision and blessings for those who delight in Him.
(Youth Bible School 2007) Holy
By Dean Taylor1.5K56:30Bible SchoolMAT 6:332CO 6:171TH 1:91PE 2:1REV 1:5In this sermon, the speaker addresses a group of young men and women, emphasizing the importance of their role in solving the problems in their country. He encourages them to listen to the word of God and allow it to speak to their hearts. The sermon is titled "Hold it," based on 1 Peter 2:1, which urges believers to lay aside malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking. The speaker also shares a powerful story of a man who stood his ground and called others to join him in resisting the enemy, illustrating the need for determination and courage in the face of opposition.
How Satan Destroys a Church - Part 8 (God's Graduate School)
By Don Courville83150:19Spiritual WarfareGEN 5:26GEN 26:14ROM 13:131CO 3:3JAS 3:141PE 2:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the destructive fruits of envy and the importance of maintaining agreement in relationships. He emphasizes that envy and jealousy can quickly break a relationship and have devastating consequences. The speaker also highlights the role of suffering in the Christian journey, drawing from the book of 1 Peter. He encourages listeners to rejoice in their participation in Christ's sufferings and to allow these trials to shape them into becoming more like Christ.
Grow Up
By Lewis Gregory78740:46GrowthPSA 119:11PSA 119:105MAT 6:331CO 3:1HEB 5:121PE 2:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the challenges of life and how our faith is tested during difficult times. He highlights the story of Baby Huey to illustrate the concept of growth, emphasizing that true growth happens on the inside. The preacher then delves into the importance of desiring the pure truth and life that comes from Jesus Christ, rather than seeking after personal preferences and creature comforts. He concludes by emphasizing that growth is ultimately produced by God, and it is through Him that we experience true growth in our faith.
Christ's Plan for the Church - Part 3
By William MacDonald47044:11Church1PE 2:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenges and temptations faced by preachers in today's world. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to the message of the gospel and not compromising spiritual standards in order to attract more people. The speaker also highlights the need for a life of faith, just like the men in the New Testament who believed that God would take care of them. He encourages believers to serve as unto the Lord, as bond slaves who belong to their master and serve out of love, rather than working for a salary. The speaker concludes by stating that the responsibility for spreading the Christian movement should not solely rest on ministers, missionaries, and evangelists, but should be shared by the laity as well.
Holy Community
By Stewart Ruch41623:55Community1PE 2:1In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of a child named William who lived in an unsafe place but finds safety and a home with Mr. Tom. The preacher emphasizes the beauty of William's transformation as he decompresses and becomes a person, discovering his love for art and experiencing friendship for the first time. The preacher also discusses the metaphorical significance of the church as a living stone, chosen and precious in the sight of God. Peter's call to live differently and abstain from sinful urges is highlighted, with the reminder that the power of the resurrection gives believers hope and victory over their sinful nature.
Truth & Deception: When Kingdoms Collide
By Shane Idleman1855:29Truth vs. DeceptionSpiritual ResponsibilityPSA 111:10PRO 29:25ISA 61:1JER 9:6MAT 5:14ROM 1:251CO 3:182TI 4:2JAS 1:221PE 2:1Shane Idleman addresses the collision of truth and deception in his sermon 'Truth & Deception: When Kingdoms Collide,' emphasizing the confusion within the modern church, much like the early Corinthian church. He warns against self-deception and the importance of taking personal responsibility for one's spiritual growth, urging believers to rid themselves of hypocrisy and deceit. Idleman highlights the necessity of standing firm in God's truth amidst cultural pressures, encouraging Christians to embrace their identity in Christ, even if it appears foolish to the world. He calls for a boldness in proclaiming the gospel and a commitment to rebuilding the foundations of truth in a society that increasingly drifts away from God. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that true wisdom comes from fearing the Lord and living out His commands.
Completely Dedicated to Christ: Are We?
By A.W. Tozer0PRO 14:30PRO 27:4MAT 27:18ROM 1:29GAL 5:21PHP 1:151TI 6:4TIT 3:3JAS 4:51PE 2:1In this sermon on Envy, the preacher delves into the destructive nature of envy, describing it as a feeling of discontent and resentment towards others' possessions or qualities. Envy leads to division, strife, and even murder, making it one of the most odious vices. The sermon emphasizes that envy is condemned in both the Old and New Testaments, warning believers of its corrupting influence on the soul. Envy is contrasted with jealousy, with envy focusing on begrudging others' possessions while jealousy fears losing what one has. The preacher highlights the importance of walking by the Spirit to overcome envy and rejoice in others' blessings.
The Loss When a Soul Is Lost
By Charles Finney0MAT 14:3ACT 7:58ROM 6:19ROM 8:13ROM 13:12EPH 4:22COL 3:8HEB 12:1JAS 1:211PE 2:1The preacher emphasizes the importance of believers putting aside their old ways and sinful behaviors, urging them to cease doing what they are accustomed to and to throw off these hindrances. Through various Bible verses, the sermon highlights the need to lay aside deeds of darkness, falsehood, anger, malice, and other vices that hinder spiritual growth. Believers are encouraged to strip off every encumbrance and sin that entangles them, fixing their eyes on Jesus and running the race with endurance.
Releasing Hurt Feelings to God
By David Wilkerson0ForgivenessPrayer1PE 2:1David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of releasing hurt feelings to God, warning that harboring grudges can hinder our prayers. He stresses that God will not respond to those with an unforgiving spirit and encourages believers to lay aside malice and resentment. Wilkerson reminds us that even those who have wronged us deserve forgiveness, as Jesus taught us to pray for forgiveness in the same manner we forgive others. He urges Christians to prioritize love and mercy over feelings of revenge, aligning with God's desire for unity among His people. Ultimately, he calls for a humble walk with God, as time is short and the day of the Lord approaches.
Holiness -- How to Get It
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Entire SanctificationHolinessHOS 4:6LUK 11:9JHN 17:3ACT 2:38ROM 7:132CO 5:17COL 3:81PE 2:11JN 1:7REV 1:5Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the necessity of understanding holiness as both a process of cleansing and a gift from God, rather than a gradual growth. He argues that entire sanctification requires an active, faith-filled effort to remove sin and embrace a holy life, which is distinct from the initial conversion experience. Brengle illustrates this through biblical examples, particularly the transformation of Peter after Pentecost, highlighting that believers can receive a clean heart through the Holy Spirit. He encourages individuals to seek this blessing wholeheartedly, assuring them that God is ready to grant it to those who earnestly ask. The sermon ultimately calls for a deeper commitment to holiness and reliance on God's power to achieve it.
Growth Through the Truth
By John Nelson Darby0Spiritual GrowthGrace Of God1PE 2:1John Nelson Darby emphasizes the necessity of approaching God's truth with the humility of a 'new-born babe' to facilitate spiritual growth. He explains that true growth comes not from intellectual study alone but from the Holy Spirit's teaching, which requires believers to lay aside malice and guile. Darby illustrates that understanding God's grace is essential for growth, as it humbles us and allows us to receive nourishment from His Word. He encourages believers to continually seek the 'sincere milk of the word' and to recognize that God's grace is foundational to their relationship with Him. Ultimately, he calls for a deep reliance on Christ, who embodies grace and truth, to foster spiritual maturity.
Some of the Mis Representations
By Job Scott0PSA 34:13PSA 101:7PRO 12:22PRO 19:9JHN 8:32EPH 4:25COL 3:92TI 2:15JAS 3:141PE 2:1In this sermon, the preacher exposes the misrepresentations contained in a pamphlet titled 'A Letter from a Friend in America to Luke Howard of Tottenham, near London.' The preacher highlights the anonymous nature of the pamphlet and its unfounded calumny, misrepresentation, and garbling of Luke Howard's character and arguments. The preacher refutes the claims made in the pamphlet, showcasing the inconsistencies, errors, and unfairness in the author's portrayal of Luke Howard's intentions and words. Additionally, the preacher addresses the doctrinal discrepancies and misinterpretations presented in the pamphlet, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the true teachings of Christianity and the Holy Scriptures.
Envy
By Thomas Brooks0GratitudeEnvyPSA 37:1PRO 14:30PRO 23:17ECC 4:4ROM 12:151CO 13:4GAL 5:26PHP 2:3JAS 3:161PE 2:1Thomas Brooks warns against the destructive nature of envy, describing it as a torment that gnaws at the soul and likening it to poison, a serpent, and a scourge. He emphasizes that envy is not only foolish but also a groundless wickedness that corrupts and destroys one's inner peace. Brooks urges listeners to flee from envy as they would from a deadly adversary, recognizing that being envious of others' blessings only leads to personal torment. He highlights the absurdity of turning the goodness of God towards others into our own suffering, urging a shift in perspective towards gratitude instead.
Means for the Attainment of Entire Holiness
By Randolph S. Foster0EPH 4:15HEB 6:11PE 2:12PE 1:5Randolph Sinks Foster delves into the topic of entire sanctification, exploring whether it is instantaneous, progressive, or both, and if it is distinct from regeneration. He emphasizes that while entire sanctification is not a different kind of holiness from that received at conversion, it is a consummate holiness that differs in degree. Foster illustrates this by comparing the growth in holiness to the stages of a seed growing into full corn, highlighting the importance of recognizing the distinction between the two stages. He stresses the necessity of specific effort, distinct faith, and complete consecration in the pursuit of holiness, cautioning against the misconception that sanctification depends on a profession of sanctification.
Something Must Be Done (Part One)
By Gardiner Spring0PRO 14:30PRO 27:4MRK 15:10ROM 1:29GAL 5:211TI 6:4JAS 1:21JAS 4:51PE 2:1The preacher delves into the concept of malice (kakia) as a quality of wickedness, depravity, and ill-will, highlighting its destructive nature and the root of various vices. Kakia is described as a vicious disposition that rejoices in hurting others, leading to a wicked habit of the mind. Envy (phthonos) is explored as a form of malice that resents others' excellence or happiness, leading to division, strife, and even murder. The sermon emphasizes the importance of putting aside malice, envy, and hatred, as they destroy fellowship and lead to a corrupt and loveless way of life.
I Will Take Heed to My Ways
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 23:28MRK 12:15LUK 12:1GAL 2:131TI 4:21PE 2:1The preacher delves into the concept of hypocrisy, which originated from Greek theater as the act of putting on a mask and playing a part on stage. In the New Testament, hypocrisy is portrayed negatively as deceit, insincerity, and pretense, where one's outward appearance contradicts their true intentions. Hypocrisy involves pretending to possess virtues or beliefs that one does not truly hold, leading to a false impression of one's motives. The sermon emphasizes the dangers of hypocrisy, warning that hypocrites will face severe consequences and that God detests this sin above all others.
Evil-Speaking
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Evil-SpeakingLove and CompassionEXO 20:16PRO 10:18MAT 5:44MAT 7:5EPH 4:29PHP 2:3COL 3:8TIT 3:2JAS 4:111PE 2:1Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the divine command to 'speak evil of no man' as outlined in Titus 3:2, warning that failing to adhere to this command leads to numerous spiritual evils, including backsliding and the quenching of revivals. He defines evil-speaking as lying, slandering, and gossiping about others, which not only harms the individual being spoken about but also corrupts the speaker's own soul and grieves the Holy Spirit. Brengle urges believers to consider the struggles of others, reflect on their own faults, and embody Christ-like love and compassion instead of judgment. He concludes that true love and a clean heart filled with the Holy Spirit will prevent one from speaking evil and instead inspire prayer and correction in love. The sermon calls for self-examination and a commitment to uphold the dignity of every person, as all are precious in God's sight.
Epistle 3
By Cyprian of Carthage0PRO 12:22JHN 8:32EPH 4:25COL 3:91PE 2:1Cyprian of Carthage writes a friendly and familiar epistle to the elders and deacons in Rome, expressing joy upon hearing of the glorious end of his colleague. He commends the Roman clergy for honoring their bishop's memory publicly, setting an example of faith and virtue for others to follow. Cyprian also addresses concerns about a potentially altered epistle, emphasizing the importance of truth and integrity in clerical communication.
Continual Growth Attends the Fullness of the Blessing
By Bishop W. F. Mallalieu0ROM 8:182CO 3:18EPH 1:151PE 2:12PE 3:181JN 3:2REV 7:14REV 21:4Bishop W. F. Mallalieu preaches about the continuous growth and development in the spiritual life, emphasizing that there is no maturity that limits further growth in the soul and its capabilities. He highlights the power of perfect love to cast out fear, leading to courage, joy, and the ability to overcome temptation by following Jesus. The sermon explores the eternal progression of the redeemed soul in heaven, painting a vivid picture of the glories and blessings awaiting those who overcome in this earthly life.
Keswickism
By Harmon A. Baldwin0LUK 1:73LUK 2:35ACT 10:152CO 7:1GAL 4:22EPH 4:22EPH 5:25COL 3:81TH 5:23HEB 12:11PE 2:1Harmon A. Baldwin addresses the dangerous doctrine of 'suppression' which teaches that depravity always lurks beneath consciousness, advocating for the eradication of the carnal nature from the soul. He contrasts this with the biblical teaching of sanctification and cleansing through Christ's sacrifice, emphasizing the possibility of living a holy and blameless life. Baldwin challenges the idea that the baptism of the Holy Spirit does not involve cleansing from sin, urging believers to allow the Spirit to rid them of the old man instead of suppressing him.
Foot Yet in the Snare
By James Nayler0PRO 12:17JHN 8:12EPH 4:14JAS 3:131PE 2:1James Nayler exposes the deceit and confusion caused by false witnesses who slander the truth professed by the Quakers. He highlights the dangers of being led astray by one's own hastiness, imaginations, and deceitful spirits, ultimately leading to acts of falsehood and bewitchment. Nayler calls for a return to the unchangeable Light of Christ, guiding believers away from the works of the flesh and false worship practices. He warns against being swayed by lying wonders and urges a humble, patient, and obedient walk in the true Light of God's wisdom and grace.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore, laying aside - This is in close connection with the preceding chapter, from which it should not have been separated, and the subject is continued to the end of the 10th verse. Laying aside all malice - See the notes on Eph 4:22-31 (note). These tempers and dispositions must have been common among the Jews, as they are frequently spoken against: Christianity can never admit of such; they show the mind, not of Christ, but of the old murderer.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore, laying aside all malice,.... Since the persons the apostle writes to were born again, and therefore ought to love one another, he exhorts them to the disuse of such vices as were disagreeable to their character as regenerate men, and contrary brotherly love; he dissuades them from them, and advises to "lay them aside", either as weights and burdens, which it was not fit for new born babes to carry; see Heb 12:1 or rather as old worn out clothes, as filthy rags, which should be put off, laid by, and never used more, being what were very unsuitable to their character and profession to wear: the metaphor is the same as in Eph 4:22 and the first he mentions is malice; to live in which is a mark of an unregenerate man, and very unbecoming such who are born again; and is not consistent with the relation of brethren, and character of children, or new born babes, who are without malice, and do not bear and retain it: "all" of this is to be laid aside, towards all persons whatever, and in every shape, and in every instance of it: and all guile; fraud, or deceit, in words or actions; and which should not be found, and appear in any form, in Israelites indeed, in brethren, in the children of God; who ought not to lie one to another, or defraud each other, nor express that with their lips which they have not in their hearts; which babes are free from, and so should babes in Christ: and hypocrisies; both to God and men: hypocrisy to God is, when persons profess that which they have not, as love to God, faith in Christ, zeal for religion, fervent devotion, and sincerity in the worship of God; and do all they do to be seen of men, and appear outwardly righteous, and yet are full of all manner of iniquity: hypocrisy to men is, pretence of friendship, loving in word and tongue only, speaking peaceably with the mouth, but in heart laying wait; a sin to be abhorred and detested by one that is born from above; and is contrary to that integrity, simplicity, and sincerity of heart, which become regenerate persons, the children of God, and brethren one of another: and envies; at each other's happiness and prosperity, riches, honours, gifts temporal or spiritual; for such are works of the flesh, show men to be carnal, are unbecoming regenerated persons, and contrary to the exercise of Christian charity, or love, which envieth not the welfare of others, either respecting body, soul, or estate: and all evil speakings; backbitings, whisperings, detractions, hurting one another's characters by innuendos, false charges, and evil surmises; which is not acting like men that are made new creatures, and are partakers of the divine nature, nor like brethren, or as Christ's little ones, and who are of God, begotten again to be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The holy apostle has been recommending mutual charity, and setting forth the excellences of the word of God, calling it an incorruptible seed, and saying that it liveth and abideth for ever. He pursues his discourse, and very properly comes in with this necessary advice, Wherefore laying aside all malice, etc. These are such sins as both destroy charity and hinder the efficacy of the word, and consequently they prevent our regeneration. I. His advice is to lay aside or put off what is evil, as one would do an old rotten garment: "Cast it away with indignation, never put it on more." 1. The sins to be put off, or thrown aside, are, (1.) Malice, which may be taken more generally for all sorts of wickedness, as Jam 1:21; Co1 5:8. But, in a more confined sense, malice is anger resting in the bosom of fools, settled overgrown anger, retained till it inflames a man to design mischief, to do mischief, or delight in any mischief that befalls another. (2.) Guile, or deceit in words. So it comprehends flattery, falsehood, and delusion, which is a crafty imposing upon another's ignorance or weakness, to his damage. (3.) Hypocrisies. The word being plural comprehends all sorts of hypocrisies. In matters of religion hypocrisy is counterfeit piety. In civil conversation hypocrisy is counterfeit friendship, which is much practised by those who give high compliments, which they do not believe, make promises which they never intend to perform, or pretend friendship when mischief lies in their hearts. (4.) All envies; every thing that may be called envy, which is a grieving at the good and welfare of another, at their abilities, prosperity, fame, or successful labours. (5.) Evil speaking, which is detraction, speaking against another, or defaming him; it is rendered backbiting, Co2 12:20; Rom 1:30. 2. Hence learn, (1.) The best Christians have need to be cautioned and warned against the worst sins, such as malice, hypocrisy, envy. They are but sanctified in part, and are still liable to temptations. (2.) Our best services towards God will neither please him nor profit us if we be not conscientious in our duties to men. The sins here mentioned are offences against the second table. These must be laid aside, or else we cannot receive the word of God as we ought to do. (3.) Whereas it is said all malice, all guile, learn, That one sin, not laid aside, will hinder our spiritual profit and everlasting welfare. (4.) Malice, envy, hatred, hypocrisy, and evil-speaking, generally go together. Evil-speaking is a sign that malice and guile lie in the heart; and all of them combine to hinder our profiting by the word of God. II. The apostle, like a wise physician, having prescribed the purging out of vicious humours, goes on to direct to wholesome and regular food, that they may grow thereby. The duty exhorted to is a strong and constant desire for the word of God, which word is here called reasonable milk, only, this phrase not being proper English, our translators rendered it the milk of the word, by which we are to understand food proper for the soul, or a reasonable creature, whereby the mind, not the body, is nourished and strengthened. This milk of the word must be sincere, not adulterated by the mixtures of men, who often corrupt the word of God, Co2 2:17. The manner in which they are to desire this sincere milk of the word is stated thus: As new-born babes. He puts them in mind of their regeneration. A new life requires suitable food. They, being newly born, must desire the milk of the word. Infants desire common milk, and their desires towards it are fervent and frequent, arising from an impatient sense of hunger, and accompanied with the best endeavours of which the infant is capable. Such must Christians' desires be for the word of God: and that for this end, that they may grow thereby, that we may improve in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Pe2 3:18. Learn, 1. Strong desires and affections to the word of God are a sure evidence of a person's being born again. If they be such desires as the babe has for the milk, they prove that the person is new-born. They are the lowest evidence, but yet they are certain. 2. Growth and improvement in wisdom and grace are the design and desire of every Christian; all spiritual means are for edification and improvement. The word of God, rightly used, does not leave a man as it finds him, but improves and makes him better. III. He adds an argument from their own experience: If so be, or since that, or forasmuch as, you have tasted that the Lord is gracious, Pe1 2:3. The apostle does not express a doubt, but affirms that these good Christians had tasted the goodness of God, and hence argues with them. "You ought to lay aside these vile sins (Pe1 2:1); you ought to desire the word of God; you ought to grow thereby, since you cannot deny but that you have tasted that the Lord is gracious." The next verse assures us that the Lord here spoken of is the Lord Jesus Christ. Hence learn, 1. Our Lord Jesus Christ is very gracious to his people. He is in himself infinitely good; he is very kind, free, and merciful to miserable sinners; he is pitiful and good to the undeserving; he has in him a fulness of grace. 2. The graciousness of our Redeemer is best discovered by an experimental taste of it. There must be an immediate application of the object to the organ of taste; we cannot taste at a distance, as we may see, and hear, and smell. To taste the graciousness of Christ experimentally supposes our being united to him by faith, and then we may taste his goodness in all his providences, in all our spiritual concerns, in all our fears and temptations, in his word and worship every day. 3. The best of God's servants have in this life but a taste of the grace of Christ. A taste is but a little; it is not a draught, nor does it satisfy. It is so with the consolations of God in this life. 4. The word of God is the great instrument whereby he discovers and communicates his grace to men. Those who feed upon the sincere milk of the word taste and experience most of his grace. In our converses with his word we should endeavour always to understand and experience more and more of his grace.