1 Peter 2:18
Verse
Context
Submission to Authorities
17Treat everyone with high regard: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. 18Servants, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but even to those who are unreasonable.19For if anyone endures the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God, this is to be commended.
Sermons
A.W. Tozer
Dwight PentecostDwight Pentecost
Anton Bosch
Basilea Schlink
Zac Poonen
C.H. SpurgeonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Servants, be subject - See the notes on Eph 6:5; Col 3:22 (note); and Tit 2:9 (note). With all fear - With all submission and reverence. The good and gentle - Those who are ever just in their commands, never requiring more work than is necessary or proper, and always allowing sufficient food and sufficient time. The froward - Σκολιοις· The crooked, perverse, unreasonable morose, and austere. Your time belongs to your master; obey him in every thing that is not sinful; if he employs you about unreasonable or foolish things, let him answer for it. He may waste your time, and thus play the fool with his own property; you can only fill up your time: let him assign the work; it is your duty to obey.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Servants--Greek, "household servants": not here the Greek for "slaves." Probably including freedmen still remaining in their master's house. Masters were not commonly Christians: he therefore mentions only the duties of the servants. These were then often persecuted by their unbelieving masters. Peter's special object seems to be to teach them submission, whatever the character of the masters might be. Paul not having this as his prominent design, includes masters in his monitions. be subject--Greek, "being subject": the participle expresses a particular instance of the general exhortation to good conduct, Pe1 2:11-12, of which the first particular precept is given Pe1 2:13, "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake." The general exhortation is taken up again in Pe1 2:16; and so the participle Pe1 2:18, "being subject," is joined to the hortatory imperatives going before, namely, "abstain," "submit yourselves." "honor all men." with--Greek, "in." all--all possible: under all circumstances, such as are presently detailed. fear--the awe of one subject: God, however, is the ultimate object of the "fear": fear "for the Lord's sake" (Pe1 2:13), not merely slavish fear of masters. good--kind. gentle--indulgent towards errors: considerate: yielding, not exacting all which justice might demand. froward--perverse: harsh. Those bound to obey must not make the disposition and behavior of the superior the measure of the fulfilment of their obligations.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For this is thankworthy,.... Or "grace"; this is a fruit and effect of grace, an instance of it, in which it shows itself: the Syriac version adds, "with God"; and so it is read in one of Beza's copies, and in the Alexandrian copy, and some others; that is, this is grateful to God, and acceptable with him; as in Pe1 2:20, if a man for conscience towards God; or, "for a good conscience", as the Syriac version reads it; for acting according to his conscience, in matters of religion, in the things of God; "for the knowledge of God", as the Arabic version renders it; for the knowledge of God in Christ; for the Gospel of Christ, and a profession of it: or, "for God", as the Ethiopic version; for the cause of God and truth, and for the sake of things appertaining to God, and that make for his glory: endure grief; what occasions grief, as severe words, bitter reproaches, hard censures, and heavy blows; and that with patience, and without murmuring, and with resignation to the will of God: suffering wrongfully; there being no just cause for an ill look, word, or blow, to be given.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:18-20 The slave was legally bound and could not change his or her master, whereas the modern employee has the right to stop working for a cruel employer. Of course, some employees may not be able to change their situation, in which case Peter’s advice to slaves is very applicable to employees today. 2:18 Many slaves in the Roman Empire held responsible positions and had a decent income, but most were harshly treated and all were deprived of legal status and rights. • with all respect (literally with all fear): Peter might be calling on slaves to fear God (see 2:17; cp. 1:17) or the master’s punishment, but he often speaks this way about the respectful attitude Christians must have toward others (3:16).
1 Peter 2:18
Submission to Authorities
17Treat everyone with high regard: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. 18Servants, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but even to those who are unreasonable.19For if anyone endures the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God, this is to be commended.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How to Live With Difficult People
By A.W. Tozer4.9K29:18Difficult People1PE 2:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of suffering for the sake of Christ. He explains that even if someone is innocent, if they endure suffering without complaining or seeking revenge, there is eternal value in it. The preacher also discusses the attitudes Christians should have towards physical people, emphasizing the need to submit to others and to respond with kindness and goodness, even when mistreated. He concludes by highlighting the merit and reward that comes from enduring suffering and mistreatment with a Christ-like attitude.
Studies in 1 Peter-09 1 Peter 2:18-25
By Dwight Pentecost1.0K34:251PE 2:18In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of submission to authority, specifically in the context of the business world. The speaker emphasizes that believers who work in the business world are living in a hostile environment that is often opposed to the values and goals of Jesus Christ. The speaker highlights the need for believers to be subject to their employers and to live with a clear conscience before God. The sermon also emphasizes that such submission is pleasing to God and will result in rewards from Him.
Studies in 1 Peter-10 1 Peter 2:18-25
By Dwight Pentecost1.0K33:261PE 2:18In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the scripture from 1 Peter 2:18-25, which talks about the importance of servants being subject to their masters with fear and patience, even when suffering wrongfully. The preacher emphasizes that it is commendable to endure suffering for doing good, just as Christ suffered for us as an example. Jesus, who committed no sin and spoke no guile, endured immense suffering without retaliation or self-defense. The preacher highlights the significance of Christ's submission to God's authority and how it serves as an example for believers to submit to all forms of constituted authority.
Persecution and Trials - 1 Peter
By Anton Bosch85248:35TrialsMAT 6:33ROM 8:281PE 1:61PE 2:181PE 2:231PE 4:13In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of arming oneself with the mindset of Christ, especially in the face of suffering and trials. Christians should be prepared and ready for difficulties that will inevitably come their way. The speaker emphasizes the need to rejoice in the midst of suffering, as it allows believers to partake in Christ's sufferings and ultimately experience His glory. The sermon also highlights the importance of holding onto the truth of God's word and not allowing negative thoughts or propaganda from the enemy to overshadow it.
The Power of Obedience
By Basilea Schlink76404:35Radio ShowMAT 16:24JHN 4:34ROM 12:2EPH 6:6JAS 1:221PE 2:181JN 2:17In this sermon transcript, Basilia Schlink discusses the power of obedience in our lives. She acknowledges that obedience is often seen as unpopular, especially among young people who strive for independence. However, she emphasizes that obedience to God's will is the way to experience joy and glory. Jesus' life serves as an example of loving, trusting, and complete surrender to the will of God. Schlink encourages listeners to follow Jesus' example and surrender to God's will, even in difficult circumstances, as this will bring strength and fulfillment to their lives.
Our God Is a Consuming Fire
By Zac Poonen0ZEP 3:11MAT 11:28ACT 13:22GAL 5:22HEB 4:131PE 2:181PE 3:4Zac Poonen preaches about the two categories of people before God: the humble and the proud. God seeks to burn up the pride in our hearts with His consuming fire, removing the haughty ones and leaving a humble and lowly people. God's acceptance is based on humility and sincerity rather than right or wrong actions, as seen in the contrasting cases of King Saul and King David. The key to triumphing over Satan is living in humility, brokenness, and meekness before God, enduring suffering patiently and forgiving others, as God values a gentle and quiet spirit that is imperishable.
Unbroken Fellowship Essential
By C.H. Spurgeon0LUK 2:29ACT 4:241TI 6:12TI 2:21TIT 2:91PE 2:182PE 2:1JUD 1:4REV 6:10The preacher delves into the meaning of 'Despotes' in the Bible, emphasizing its representation of ownership and authority, both in the secular and spiritual realms. While the term may evoke negative connotations in English, its Biblical usage portrays God's absolute control and rulership over all things. Believers are called to submit to God as their Master, reflecting a heart of reverence and obedience in all aspects of life, even in challenging circumstances. The sermon highlights the importance of believers living out the Gospel through respectful submission to earthly authorities, ultimately honoring God as the true Master of their lives.
1 Peter 2:18
By John Gill0ServanthoodSubmissionMAT 5:44ROM 13:11CO 7:20EPH 6:5COL 3:221TI 6:12TI 2:9TIT 2:91PE 2:181PE 3:1John Gill emphasizes the Apostle Peter's instruction to servants to be submissive to their masters, regardless of whether they are good or harsh. He addresses the misconception among believers that their faith exempts them from serving others, reminding them of the importance of respect, diligence, and faithfulness in their duties. Gill highlights that submission should be given not only to kind masters but also to those who are difficult and demanding, underscoring the call to maintain integrity and honor in all circumstances.
Difficult or Impossible Tasks
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 3:5EPH 6:5COL 3:231PE 2:18St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of meekness, obedience, and submission to authority, even when faced with difficult or impossible tasks. He advises that if a burden becomes too heavy to bear, it is acceptable to humbly communicate one's limitations to the superior without pride or resistance. Ultimately, he encourages obedience out of love and trust in God's help, believing that following the commands of authority figures is for the individual's benefit.
Diary - Back at Home - 1723
By Jonathan Edwards0PSA 119:20PSA 139:23PRO 22:1ROM 8:26EPH 6:6PHP 4:61TH 5:16JAS 1:2JAS 3:21PE 2:18Jonathan Edwards preaches about the journey of self-reflection, repentance, and striving for holiness in various states of life. He emphasizes the importance of withdrawing worldly desires and fixing one's focus on heavenly joy and love. Edwards reflects on his struggles with temperament, conversation, and the need for vital Christianity to transform his flaws. He encourages continuous self-examination, prayer, and seeking God's mercy and guidance in all aspects of life.
(Knowing God's Way) 13. a Consuming Fire in the Midst of the Church
By Zac Poonen0GEN 3:4ISA 33:14ROM 8:281CO 3:171CO 10:132TH 2:11HEB 12:291PE 2:181PE 3:4Zac Poonen preaches about the concept of God as a consuming fire, emphasizing the need for balance in our understanding of God's nature. He highlights the importance of living righteously, rejecting unjust gain, avoiding bloodshed, and shutting our eyes from evil to dwell with the consuming fire of God. Poonen stresses the significance of humility, sincerity, and faithfulness in money matters as qualifications to live with God's consuming fire, warning against hypocrisy and insincerity. He encourages believers to love the truth about themselves, seek salvation from sin, and embrace humility to avoid being deceived and to experience God's refining fire.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Servants, be subject - See the notes on Eph 6:5; Col 3:22 (note); and Tit 2:9 (note). With all fear - With all submission and reverence. The good and gentle - Those who are ever just in their commands, never requiring more work than is necessary or proper, and always allowing sufficient food and sufficient time. The froward - Σκολιοις· The crooked, perverse, unreasonable morose, and austere. Your time belongs to your master; obey him in every thing that is not sinful; if he employs you about unreasonable or foolish things, let him answer for it. He may waste your time, and thus play the fool with his own property; you can only fill up your time: let him assign the work; it is your duty to obey.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Servants--Greek, "household servants": not here the Greek for "slaves." Probably including freedmen still remaining in their master's house. Masters were not commonly Christians: he therefore mentions only the duties of the servants. These were then often persecuted by their unbelieving masters. Peter's special object seems to be to teach them submission, whatever the character of the masters might be. Paul not having this as his prominent design, includes masters in his monitions. be subject--Greek, "being subject": the participle expresses a particular instance of the general exhortation to good conduct, Pe1 2:11-12, of which the first particular precept is given Pe1 2:13, "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake." The general exhortation is taken up again in Pe1 2:16; and so the participle Pe1 2:18, "being subject," is joined to the hortatory imperatives going before, namely, "abstain," "submit yourselves." "honor all men." with--Greek, "in." all--all possible: under all circumstances, such as are presently detailed. fear--the awe of one subject: God, however, is the ultimate object of the "fear": fear "for the Lord's sake" (Pe1 2:13), not merely slavish fear of masters. good--kind. gentle--indulgent towards errors: considerate: yielding, not exacting all which justice might demand. froward--perverse: harsh. Those bound to obey must not make the disposition and behavior of the superior the measure of the fulfilment of their obligations.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For this is thankworthy,.... Or "grace"; this is a fruit and effect of grace, an instance of it, in which it shows itself: the Syriac version adds, "with God"; and so it is read in one of Beza's copies, and in the Alexandrian copy, and some others; that is, this is grateful to God, and acceptable with him; as in Pe1 2:20, if a man for conscience towards God; or, "for a good conscience", as the Syriac version reads it; for acting according to his conscience, in matters of religion, in the things of God; "for the knowledge of God", as the Arabic version renders it; for the knowledge of God in Christ; for the Gospel of Christ, and a profession of it: or, "for God", as the Ethiopic version; for the cause of God and truth, and for the sake of things appertaining to God, and that make for his glory: endure grief; what occasions grief, as severe words, bitter reproaches, hard censures, and heavy blows; and that with patience, and without murmuring, and with resignation to the will of God: suffering wrongfully; there being no just cause for an ill look, word, or blow, to be given.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:18-20 The slave was legally bound and could not change his or her master, whereas the modern employee has the right to stop working for a cruel employer. Of course, some employees may not be able to change their situation, in which case Peter’s advice to slaves is very applicable to employees today. 2:18 Many slaves in the Roman Empire held responsible positions and had a decent income, but most were harshly treated and all were deprived of legal status and rights. • with all respect (literally with all fear): Peter might be calling on slaves to fear God (see 2:17; cp. 1:17) or the master’s punishment, but he often speaks this way about the respectful attitude Christians must have toward others (3:16).