1 Peter 3:14
Verse
Context
Suffering for Righteousness
13Who can harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be shaken.” 15But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect,
Sermons
Richard Wurmbrand
Thaddeus Barnum
C.H. Spurgeon
A.W. Tozer
John Gill
John Calvin
C.T. StuddSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But and if ye suffer - God may permit you to be tried and persecuted for righteousness' sake, but this cannot essentially harm you; he will press even this into your service, and make it work for your good. Happy are ye - This seems to refer to Mat 5:10, etc. Blessed or happy, are ye when men persecute you, etc. It is a happiness to suffer for Christ; and it is a happiness, because if a man were not holy and righteous the world would not persecute him, so he is happy in the very cause of his sufferings. Be not afraid of their terror - Τον δε φοβον αυτων μη φοβηθητε· Fear not their fear; see Isa 8:12. Sometimes fear is put for the object of a man's religious worship; see Gen 31:42; Pro 1:26, and the place in Isaiah just quoted. The exhortation may mean, Fear not their gods, they can do you no hurt; and supposing that they curse you by them, yet be not troubled; "He who fears God need have no other fear."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But and if--"But if even." "The promises of this life extend only so far as it is expedient for us that they should be fulfilled" [CALVIN]. So he proceeds to state the exceptions to the promise (Pe1 3:10), and how the truly wise will behave in such exceptional cases. "If ye should suffer"; if it should so happen; "suffer," a milder word than harm. for righteousness--"not the suffering, but the cause for which one suffers, makes the martyr" [AUGUSTINE]. happy--Not even can suffering take away your blessedness, but rather promotes it. and--Greek, "but." Do not impair your blessing (Pe1 3:9) by fearing man's terror in your times of adversity. Literally, "Be not terrified with their terror," that is, with that which they try to strike into you, and which strikes themselves when in adversity. This verse and Pe1 3:15 is quoted from Isa 8:12-13. God alone is to be feared; he that fears God has none else to fear. neither be troubled--the threat of the law, Lev 26:36; Deu 28:65-66; in contrast to which the Gospel gives the believer a heart assured of God's favor, and therefore unruffled, amidst all adversities. Not only be not afraid, but be not even agitated.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But and if ye suffer for righteousness sake,.... For the doctrine of justification by the righteousness of Christ, which was the great stumbling block to the Jews, and on account of which they persecuted the Christians; it being not after man, nor according to the carnal reason of men, and was contrary to the method they had fixed on, and what excluded boasting in them, and was thought to be a licentious doctrine; and for a righteous cause, for professing Christ and his Gospel; for vindicating both which, whoever did must expect to suffer persecution; and also for living soberly, righteously, and godly; for by a religious life and conversation the saints are separated from the world, and are distinguished from them, which in effect sets a mark of infamy and reproach upon them; and saints, by an agreeable life, reprove others, and condemn them; all which irritate and provoke them to hate and persecute them: now these words prevent an objection that might be made to what is before said; that none can, or will harm such as are followers of good; whereas it is a clear case, that saints for righteousness sake are hurt, and do suffer in their persons, characters, and estate; they are reproached and reviled, and often suffer confiscation of goods, imprisonment, and even death itself; to which the apostle answers, by granting it, and supposing that this should be the case, as it sometimes is; yet no hurt is done them, they are still happy persons: happy are ye; since suffering on such an account is a gift of God, even as believing in Christ itself is, and is a real honour done to a person, and to be so accounted; moreover, such generally enjoy much of the presence of God, and the comforts of his Spirit; the Spirit of God and of glory rests upon them; hereby the graces of the Spirit of God in them are exercised, tried, and proved, and shine out the brighter; the faith and hope of other Christians are strengthened, and God is glorified; and besides, the kingdom of heaven, the crown of life, and eternal glory, with which their sufferings are not to be compared, are theirs, and which they shall certainly enjoy: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; referring to a passage in Isa 8:12 and the meaning is either, be not afraid with the same sort of fear as wicked men are; with a worldly slavish fear of men, and of the loss of worldly things, and of life itself: or, afraid of them, as the Syriac version renders it; who inject fear into you; do not be afraid of their revilings and reproaches, of their threatenings and menaces, and even of death itself by them, which is the utmost they can do; do not be troubled at anything they say or do to you; since nothing can harm you, since God is on your side, Christ has delivered you from this present evil world, and saved you out of the hands of every enemy; and since the love of God, which casteth out fear, is shed abroad in your hearts, and you are encompassed with it, and nothing can separate you from it. and the meaning is either, be not afraid with the same sort of fear as wicked men are; with a worldly slavish fear of men, and of the loss of worldly things, and of life itself: or, afraid of them, as the Syriac version renders it; who inject fear into you; do not be afraid of their revilings and reproaches, of their threatenings and menaces, and even of death itself by them, which is the utmost they can do; do not be troubled at anything they say or do to you; since nothing can harm you, since God is on your side, Christ has delivered you from this present evil world, and saved you out of the hands of every enemy; and since the love of God, which casteth out fear, is shed abroad in your hearts, and you are encompassed with it, and nothing can separate you from it. 1 Peter 3:15 pe1 3:15 pe1 3:15 pe1 3:15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts,.... Still referring to Isa 8:13 not by making him holy, which need not, nor cannot be, he being essentially, infinitely, and perfectly holy; but by declaring and proclaiming his holiness, as the seraphim in Isaiah's prophecy, and the four living creatures in the Revelation did; and by glorifying of him, praising and applauding all his perfections, and among the rest, this of his holiness, and giving thanks at the remembrance of it; which he has so much displayed in the works of creation, providence, redemption, and grace; hence the Arabic version renders it, bless the Lord God in your hearts: the Lord God is sanctified by his people externally, when they regard his commands, attend his ordinances, and call upon his name, and praise him; but here an internal sanctification of him, a sanctification of him in their hearts, is intended, and what is opposed to the fear of men, and unbelief, and lies in the exercise of the grace of fear upon him; see Isa 8:13 and which has for its object his goodness, and is a fruit of the covenant of his grace, and is a child like and godly fear; and in the exercise of faith upon him, upon his covenant and promises, his faithfulness, and power to help, assist, and preserve; whereby glory is given to him, a witness borne to his truth, and he is sanctified: some copies, as the Alexandrian, and one of Stephens's, read, sanctify the Lord Christ; and so read the Vulgate Latin and Syriac versions; and certain it is that he is intended in Isa 8:13 as appears from Pe1 3:14 compared with Rom 9:33. and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear; by the hope that is in the saints, is not designed the grace of hope itself, which is given to them, and implanted in them in regeneration; the reason, ground, and foundation of which are, the love, grace, and mercy of God, through Christ, and his person, blood, righteousness, sacrifice, and redemption; but the Gospel, the whole Christian doctrine, the doctrine of faith, and which the Syriac version here calls the "hope of faith"; and the profession of Christianity, called in Heb 10:23, the profession of hope; in which persons profess their hope of eternal life and happiness through Christ, as doctrine of the Gospel directs them to. Now, a "reason" of this is to be given; not that they are to account for the Gospel, upon the foot of carnal reason; for that is not of men, nor according to the carnal reason of men; nor is it to be thought that every Christian should be capable of defending the Gospel, either in whole, or in part, by arguments and reasons, in a disputatious way, or to give a reason and argument for every particular truth; but that he should be well acquainted with the ground and foundation of the Christian religion; at least, with the first principles of the oracles of God, and be conversant with the Scriptures, and be able to point out that in them, which is the reason of his holding this and the other truth, though he is not able to give a gainsayer satisfaction, or to stop his mouth: and this is to be done with meekness and fear; with meekness, before men; in an humble modest way; not with an haughty air, and in a morose and surly manner, which serves only to irritate and provoke: and with fear; either of God, and so the Ethiopic Version renders it, with the fear of the Lord; considering the subject of the argument, and the importance of it, and how much the honour of God is concerned in it; and taking care lest the answer should be delivered in a light, trifling, and negligent manner, and that no part of truth be dropped or concealed, in order to please men, and be screened from their resentments; or with all due reverence of, and respect to men, to superiors, to the civil magistrates, who may ask the reason; for they are to be treated with honour and esteem, and to be answered in an handsome and becoming manner, suitable to the dignity of their persons and office; as the sanhedrim was by Stephen; and as Felix, Festus, and Agrippa, by the Apostle Paul: and this answer, or reason, is to be given to every man; that has authority to ask, and that asks in a modest manner, and with a reverence suitable to the subject; for the phrases, "with meekness and fear", may respect him that asks the reason, as well as him that gives the answer; for that which is holy is not to be given to dogs, to impudent persons, mockers and scoffers, nor are pearls to be cast before swine, filthy and irreverent persons; see Mat 7:6 the Alexandrian copy, and some others, and so the Vulgate Latin version, read, "but with meekness and fear"; for if it is not asked in such a way, there is no obligation to give an answer: and this is to be given "always"; whenever it is asked in such a manner, and by proper persons; when there is a necessity of it, and as opportunity offers: and saints should be always "ready to" give and therefore it becomes them daily and diligently to search the Scriptures, meditate on them, and get all the help and assistance they can, to lead them into an acquaintance with them, that they may be so; for though the apostles had extraordinary assistance promised them, and therefore were bid not to consider beforehand what they should say, when brought before kings and princes; yet this is not to be expected by ordinary persons, nor in ordinary cases. Agreeably to this is the advice of R. Eleazar (z), "be diligent to learn the law, and know what thou shouldest answer to an Epicure, or heretic: says R. Jochanan (a), "in every place where the Sadducees object, their answer is at their side, or ready; that is, in the same Scriptures on which they form their objections, (z) Pirke Abot, c. 2. sect. 14. (a) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 38. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:14-15 or be afraid of their threats: See Isa 8:13, where God exhorts the prophet to fear nothing except the Lord. • worship Christ as Lord: By fearing Christ, they will be free from fear of their human persecutors.
1 Peter 3:14
Suffering for Righteousness
13Who can harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be shaken.” 15But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect,
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1992 Missions Conference Talk - Part 7
By Richard Wurmbrand2.0K05:48MAT 5:44MAT 10:28MAT 24:13ROM 8:352CO 12:10PHP 1:21HEB 13:31PE 3:141PE 4:16REV 2:10
This sermon emphasizes the importance of love, compassion, and faith in the face of persecution, particularly focusing on the struggles of persecuted Christians in various countries. It highlights the need for support, prayer, and understanding for those facing persecution, especially in communist and Muslim nations. The message encourages believers to show love, strength, and courage in the midst of adversity, following the example of persecuted Christians who demonstrate unwavering faith and love even in the most challenging circumstances.
Focus on the Holy Spirit
By Thaddeus Barnum44325:27Holy SpiritISA 61:1LUK 4:18LUK 4:24ROM 15:21CO 14:121CO 14:26EPH 4:291PE 3:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of praying for and uplifting the people around us. He encourages the audience to ask God for words to build up others. The sermon is based on 1 Corinthians 14, which discusses the functioning of the body of Christ and the importance of each individual part working together for the growth and edification of the church. The speaker warns against tearing others down and emphasizes the need to build each other up in love, especially in the current culture of tearing people down in politics and media.
Fear Only God
By C.H. Spurgeon0Courage in FaithFear Of GodPSA 27:1PSA 118:6PRO 29:25ISA 41:10MAT 10:28JHN 14:27ROM 8:312TI 1:7HEB 13:61PE 3:14C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of fearing only God, asserting that with the Lord as our helper, we need not fear what man can do to us. He encourages believers to find contentment in God's presence, which provides friendship, treasure, and a safe dwelling. Spurgeon reminds us that true independence comes from our relationship with God, allowing us to stand boldly against the scorn and threats of the world. He asserts that those who fear God have nothing else to fear, as worldly threats are insignificant compared to the power of the living Lord. Ultimately, he calls for courage in the face of persecution, urging believers to remain steadfast and unafraid.
Commendation in the Face of Condemnation
By A.W. Tozer0Humility in LeadershipDefending FaithROM 8:311CO 9:12CO 10:102CO 11:12CO 12:11GAL 1:10PHP 1:151TH 2:42TI 4:71PE 3:14A.W. Tozer discusses the challenges faced by the Apostle Paul as he defends his apostolic authority against detractors in Corinth who questioned his legitimacy and integrity. Despite the humiliation of having to justify himself, Paul prioritizes the well-being of the church over his own pride, demonstrating his commitment to his fellow Christians. Tozer emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and truth, even when faced with condemnation and criticism from others. Paul's willingness to endure personal sacrifice for the sake of the church serves as a powerful example of true leadership and devotion.
1 Peter 3:14
By John Gill0Suffering for RighteousnessGod's Comfort in TrialsISA 8:12MAT 5:101PE 3:14John Gill emphasizes that suffering for righteousness, particularly for the sake of Christ and His Gospel, is an expected part of the Christian life. He explains that such suffering, while painful, is a mark of honor and a gift from God, as it strengthens faith and glorifies God. Gill reassures believers that despite persecution, they remain blessed and are comforted by the presence of the Holy Spirit. He encourages Christians not to fear the threats or reproaches of the world, as God is their protector and love casts out fear. Ultimately, the promise of eternal glory far outweighs any temporary suffering they may endure.
By Faith Moses, When He Was Come to Years
By John Calvin01CO 16:132TI 1:7HEB 11:24JAS 4:71PE 3:14John Calvin preaches about the importance of staying faithful to God despite the temptations and distractions that come our way, using the example of Moses who chose to suffer with God's people rather than enjoy temporary pleasures. Calvin emphasizes the need to guard against flatteries and fears that may lead us astray, urging listeners to focus on God and remain steadfast in their faith. He highlights the value of confessing and standing firm in the truth of the gospel, even in the face of opposition and ridicule, as it is a sacrifice pleasing to God and will bear fruit in due time.
God's D. D.
By C.T. Studd0IntegrityCourageJOS 1:9PSA 27:1PRO 28:1DAN 6:10MAT 10:32ACT 4:19ROM 1:16EPH 6:102TI 1:71PE 3:14C.T. Studd passionately preaches about the boldness and integrity of Daniel, urging believers to emulate his fearless faith and unwavering commitment to God. He emphasizes that true courage involves confronting sin directly and standing firm in one's convictions, regardless of societal pressures or threats. Studd encourages Christians to be 'Dreadnoughts'—those who dare to speak the truth, live simply, and trust in God without compromise. He calls for a rejection of complacency and a commitment to a life of purpose and bold confession.
Iii. the Appian Way
By Martyrs of the Catacombs0PSA 27:1MAT 10:28ROM 8:35HEB 13:61PE 3:14In the sermon 'Sepulchers in sad array Guard the ashes of the mighty Slumbering on the Appian Way,' the preacher reflects on Marcellus' search for the Christians in the Catacombs, highlighting the contrast between the grandeur of Rome's tombs and the Christians' triumphant attitude towards death. Marcellus encounters a young Christian boy, Pollio, who bravely refuses to betray his friends despite the soldier's persistence. The boy's unwavering faith and courage in the face of danger challenge Marcellus' preconceptions and lead to a pivotal moment of decision.
To Elisha Camp
By Charles Finney0IntegrityJusticePSA 37:5PRO 12:22PRO 21:15ISA 1:17MIC 6:8MAT 5:10ROM 12:192TI 4:7JAS 1:51PE 3:14In his sermon 'To Elisha Camp', Charles Finney addresses the legal troubles faced by Elisha Camp, emphasizing the importance of integrity and justice in both personal and professional matters. Finney highlights the need for individuals to be prepared to confront challenges with wisdom and faith, encouraging Camp to stand firm against the accusations he faces. The sermon serves as a reminder of the moral responsibilities that come with leadership and the necessity of relying on God's guidance in difficult situations.
Ii. the Pretorian Camp
By Martyrs of the Catacombs0MAT 5:10ACT 10:1ROM 12:211PE 3:141PE 4:16The preacher in 'Martyrs of the Catacombs' tells the story of Marcellus, a Roman soldier tasked with hunting down Christians in the Catacombs. Despite his initial doubts and misconceptions about Christians, Marcellus begins to question the unjust persecution of these peaceful believers after witnessing their courage and devotion in the face of death. As Marcellus grapples with his duty and moral convictions, he is confronted with the true essence of Christianity - love, sacrifice, and unwavering faith in the face of persecution.
The Pilgrim Church - Part 5
By E.H. Broadbent0MAT 5:10MAT 10:22ACT 5:41ROM 8:352TI 3:12HEB 10:341PE 3:141PE 4:12REV 2:10Persecution by Theodora: Theodora ordered systematic slaughter, beheading, burning, and drowning of believers, resulting in the death of 100,000 persons between 842 and 867. Despite the persecution, the believers remained steadfast. The Armenian book 'The Key of Truth' describes the beliefs and practices of the Paulicians, emphasizing the importance of repentance, faith, and baptism. The believers faced intense persecution but stood firm in their faith, even when faced with imprisonment and death.
The Beauty of Little Things
By Claudia Esh0MAT 10:221CO 16:13PHP 1:27HEB 10:351PE 3:14Claudia Esh emphasizes the importance of preparing for potential persecution in the church, foreseeing a time when believers may be pressured to stop proclaiming Christ as the only way to God, likely stemming from a push for worldwide tolerance. She highlights that true courage and faith are not developed overnight but are a result of consistent character-building in everyday decisions and actions, drawing inspiration from biblical examples like Jesus praying for His murderers and martyrs who stood firm in their faith. Esh urges believers to focus on building a deep, unwavering relationship with God through daily sacrifices and a continuous walk with Him, knowing that such preparation is crucial for standing strong in the face of adversity.
From 1787 to 1791 Inclusive
By Nathan Bangs0MAT 5:10MAT 10:22ACT 4:13ACT 5:41ROM 8:181CO 1:272CO 12:102TI 3:121PE 3:141PE 4:14Dr. Coke and Bishop Asbury faced challenges and opposition as they spread Methodism in America, encountering dissatisfaction and misconceptions among American brethren. Despite controversies over titles and authority, they worked diligently to establish Methodist societies and circuits, facing ridicule and persecution from those who misunderstood their mission. Revivals of religion, marked by powerful conversions and manifestations of the Holy Spirit, spread through Baltimore and Maryland, leading many to experience profound spiritual transformations. The Methodist preachers persevered through ignorance, opposition, and ridicule, continuing to preach the Gospel and establish Methodist churches in New England, where they faced resistance from established Congregationalist beliefs.
The Church Emerging Triumphantly From Persecution
By J.B. Galloway0MAT 5:10JHN 15:18ACT 5:41ROM 8:35PHP 1:292TI 3:12HEB 10:321PE 3:141PE 4:12REV 2:10J.B. Galloway preaches about the early persecutions faced by Christians, starting with Jewish hatred and escalating to Roman enmity, leading to brutal persecutions with the sword, flame, and wild beasts. Despite the challenges, Christianity continued to grow. The sermon also highlights the significant contributions of the Church in North Africa, particularly the church in Alexandria, and the lives of influential figures like Gregory Thaumaturgus, Julius Africanus, Methodius, Victorianus, and Dionysius of Rome.
The Third Baptism
By Mike Atnip0MAT 10:38LUK 12:50ROM 12:211PE 3:141PE 4:1REV 2:10Mike Atnip preaches about the three baptisms in the Christian life, focusing on the often overlooked 'baptism of suffering' that Jesus spoke of in Luke 12:50. He emphasizes the importance of not replacing this baptism with a 'Prosperity Gospel' that promises material blessings, but rather following Jesus into His baptism of suffering. Atnip delves into the necessity of suffering in manifesting the righteous character of God and how believers are called to overcome evil with good, ultimately glorifying God through their responses to unjust treatment.
Our Daily Homily - 1 Peter
By F.B. Meyer0InheritanceSuffering For ChristMAT 5:10ROM 8:172CO 4:17HEB 10:371PE 1:41PE 2:241PE 3:141PE 4:11PE 5:10REV 21:4F.B. Meyer emphasizes the incredible inheritance believers have in Christ, which is incorruptible, undefiled, and eternal, highlighting that it is a birthright granted by God's mercy. He reassures the faithful that they are guarded by God's power through faith, even amidst trials and persecution, drawing parallels to the suffering of Christ and the strength found in sharing in His sufferings. Meyer encourages believers to arm themselves with the mindset of Christ, choosing to live according to God's will rather than succumbing to worldly desires. He reminds them that their suffering is temporary and serves a divine purpose, ultimately leading to eternal glory. The sermon concludes with a call to embrace the hope of their heavenly inheritance and the assurance of God's presence in their trials.
Letter - to Elisha Camp
By Charles Finney0Preparation for TrialsJusticePSA 37:5PRO 21:15ISA 1:17ROM 12:191PE 3:14In his letter to Elisha Camp, Charles Finney addresses legal challenges faced by Camp, providing insights into the court proceedings and the objections raised against him. Finney reassures Camp that he successfully quashed the suit based on jurisdictional issues, emphasizing the importance of being prepared to counter the claims made against him. The letter reflects Finney's legal acumen and his commitment to supporting Camp during a difficult time, while also hinting at the broader themes of justice and accountability. Finney's guidance encourages Camp to face his adversaries with confidence and wisdom.
Remember Me, as Jesus Christ Also Remembers You
By Ignatius of Antioch0ROM 15:302CO 13:14PHP 1:3HEB 10:341PE 3:14Ignatius of Antioch expresses gratitude and love to the recipients of his letter, urging them to remember him in prayer as he faces persecution and imprisonment for the sake of God. He asks for prayers for the Church of Antioch and sends his blessings in the name of God the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Ignatius acknowledges the honor of suffering for God and encourages the believers to hold on to their common hope in Christ.
1 Peter 2:21
By John Gill0Suffering For ChristFollowing Christ's ExampleMAT 5:10ROM 8:172CO 1:5PHP 1:291TH 3:3HEB 12:2JAS 1:21PE 2:211PE 3:141PE 4:12John Gill emphasizes that believers are called to do good and to endure suffering for their faith, drawing strength from Christ's own suffering as an example. He explains that Christ's sacrifice was not only for our benefit but also serves as a model for how we should respond to trials with patience and grace. Gill encourages the faithful to follow Christ's example in all aspects of life, including humility, prayer, and submission to God's will, especially in times of suffering. This calling to patience and perseverance is a vital part of the Christian journey.
Refined
By John Bunyan0Suffering for RighteousnessSpiritual RefinementZEC 13:9ACT 6:15ROM 5:31PE 3:14John Bunyan emphasizes that suffering for righteousness is a source of happiness and spiritual growth, as it refines believers much like fire refines precious metals. He asserts that affliction enhances one's holiness and character, making them shine brighter in their faith. Bunyan warns that while some may falter under pressure, true righteousness is strengthened through trials, leading to a more profound Christian identity. He encourages believers to embrace their sufferings as a means of becoming more godly and reflective of Christ's character.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But and if ye suffer - God may permit you to be tried and persecuted for righteousness' sake, but this cannot essentially harm you; he will press even this into your service, and make it work for your good. Happy are ye - This seems to refer to Mat 5:10, etc. Blessed or happy, are ye when men persecute you, etc. It is a happiness to suffer for Christ; and it is a happiness, because if a man were not holy and righteous the world would not persecute him, so he is happy in the very cause of his sufferings. Be not afraid of their terror - Τον δε φοβον αυτων μη φοβηθητε· Fear not their fear; see Isa 8:12. Sometimes fear is put for the object of a man's religious worship; see Gen 31:42; Pro 1:26, and the place in Isaiah just quoted. The exhortation may mean, Fear not their gods, they can do you no hurt; and supposing that they curse you by them, yet be not troubled; "He who fears God need have no other fear."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But and if--"But if even." "The promises of this life extend only so far as it is expedient for us that they should be fulfilled" [CALVIN]. So he proceeds to state the exceptions to the promise (Pe1 3:10), and how the truly wise will behave in such exceptional cases. "If ye should suffer"; if it should so happen; "suffer," a milder word than harm. for righteousness--"not the suffering, but the cause for which one suffers, makes the martyr" [AUGUSTINE]. happy--Not even can suffering take away your blessedness, but rather promotes it. and--Greek, "but." Do not impair your blessing (Pe1 3:9) by fearing man's terror in your times of adversity. Literally, "Be not terrified with their terror," that is, with that which they try to strike into you, and which strikes themselves when in adversity. This verse and Pe1 3:15 is quoted from Isa 8:12-13. God alone is to be feared; he that fears God has none else to fear. neither be troubled--the threat of the law, Lev 26:36; Deu 28:65-66; in contrast to which the Gospel gives the believer a heart assured of God's favor, and therefore unruffled, amidst all adversities. Not only be not afraid, but be not even agitated.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But and if ye suffer for righteousness sake,.... For the doctrine of justification by the righteousness of Christ, which was the great stumbling block to the Jews, and on account of which they persecuted the Christians; it being not after man, nor according to the carnal reason of men, and was contrary to the method they had fixed on, and what excluded boasting in them, and was thought to be a licentious doctrine; and for a righteous cause, for professing Christ and his Gospel; for vindicating both which, whoever did must expect to suffer persecution; and also for living soberly, righteously, and godly; for by a religious life and conversation the saints are separated from the world, and are distinguished from them, which in effect sets a mark of infamy and reproach upon them; and saints, by an agreeable life, reprove others, and condemn them; all which irritate and provoke them to hate and persecute them: now these words prevent an objection that might be made to what is before said; that none can, or will harm such as are followers of good; whereas it is a clear case, that saints for righteousness sake are hurt, and do suffer in their persons, characters, and estate; they are reproached and reviled, and often suffer confiscation of goods, imprisonment, and even death itself; to which the apostle answers, by granting it, and supposing that this should be the case, as it sometimes is; yet no hurt is done them, they are still happy persons: happy are ye; since suffering on such an account is a gift of God, even as believing in Christ itself is, and is a real honour done to a person, and to be so accounted; moreover, such generally enjoy much of the presence of God, and the comforts of his Spirit; the Spirit of God and of glory rests upon them; hereby the graces of the Spirit of God in them are exercised, tried, and proved, and shine out the brighter; the faith and hope of other Christians are strengthened, and God is glorified; and besides, the kingdom of heaven, the crown of life, and eternal glory, with which their sufferings are not to be compared, are theirs, and which they shall certainly enjoy: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; referring to a passage in Isa 8:12 and the meaning is either, be not afraid with the same sort of fear as wicked men are; with a worldly slavish fear of men, and of the loss of worldly things, and of life itself: or, afraid of them, as the Syriac version renders it; who inject fear into you; do not be afraid of their revilings and reproaches, of their threatenings and menaces, and even of death itself by them, which is the utmost they can do; do not be troubled at anything they say or do to you; since nothing can harm you, since God is on your side, Christ has delivered you from this present evil world, and saved you out of the hands of every enemy; and since the love of God, which casteth out fear, is shed abroad in your hearts, and you are encompassed with it, and nothing can separate you from it. and the meaning is either, be not afraid with the same sort of fear as wicked men are; with a worldly slavish fear of men, and of the loss of worldly things, and of life itself: or, afraid of them, as the Syriac version renders it; who inject fear into you; do not be afraid of their revilings and reproaches, of their threatenings and menaces, and even of death itself by them, which is the utmost they can do; do not be troubled at anything they say or do to you; since nothing can harm you, since God is on your side, Christ has delivered you from this present evil world, and saved you out of the hands of every enemy; and since the love of God, which casteth out fear, is shed abroad in your hearts, and you are encompassed with it, and nothing can separate you from it. 1 Peter 3:15 pe1 3:15 pe1 3:15 pe1 3:15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts,.... Still referring to Isa 8:13 not by making him holy, which need not, nor cannot be, he being essentially, infinitely, and perfectly holy; but by declaring and proclaiming his holiness, as the seraphim in Isaiah's prophecy, and the four living creatures in the Revelation did; and by glorifying of him, praising and applauding all his perfections, and among the rest, this of his holiness, and giving thanks at the remembrance of it; which he has so much displayed in the works of creation, providence, redemption, and grace; hence the Arabic version renders it, bless the Lord God in your hearts: the Lord God is sanctified by his people externally, when they regard his commands, attend his ordinances, and call upon his name, and praise him; but here an internal sanctification of him, a sanctification of him in their hearts, is intended, and what is opposed to the fear of men, and unbelief, and lies in the exercise of the grace of fear upon him; see Isa 8:13 and which has for its object his goodness, and is a fruit of the covenant of his grace, and is a child like and godly fear; and in the exercise of faith upon him, upon his covenant and promises, his faithfulness, and power to help, assist, and preserve; whereby glory is given to him, a witness borne to his truth, and he is sanctified: some copies, as the Alexandrian, and one of Stephens's, read, sanctify the Lord Christ; and so read the Vulgate Latin and Syriac versions; and certain it is that he is intended in Isa 8:13 as appears from Pe1 3:14 compared with Rom 9:33. and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear; by the hope that is in the saints, is not designed the grace of hope itself, which is given to them, and implanted in them in regeneration; the reason, ground, and foundation of which are, the love, grace, and mercy of God, through Christ, and his person, blood, righteousness, sacrifice, and redemption; but the Gospel, the whole Christian doctrine, the doctrine of faith, and which the Syriac version here calls the "hope of faith"; and the profession of Christianity, called in Heb 10:23, the profession of hope; in which persons profess their hope of eternal life and happiness through Christ, as doctrine of the Gospel directs them to. Now, a "reason" of this is to be given; not that they are to account for the Gospel, upon the foot of carnal reason; for that is not of men, nor according to the carnal reason of men; nor is it to be thought that every Christian should be capable of defending the Gospel, either in whole, or in part, by arguments and reasons, in a disputatious way, or to give a reason and argument for every particular truth; but that he should be well acquainted with the ground and foundation of the Christian religion; at least, with the first principles of the oracles of God, and be conversant with the Scriptures, and be able to point out that in them, which is the reason of his holding this and the other truth, though he is not able to give a gainsayer satisfaction, or to stop his mouth: and this is to be done with meekness and fear; with meekness, before men; in an humble modest way; not with an haughty air, and in a morose and surly manner, which serves only to irritate and provoke: and with fear; either of God, and so the Ethiopic Version renders it, with the fear of the Lord; considering the subject of the argument, and the importance of it, and how much the honour of God is concerned in it; and taking care lest the answer should be delivered in a light, trifling, and negligent manner, and that no part of truth be dropped or concealed, in order to please men, and be screened from their resentments; or with all due reverence of, and respect to men, to superiors, to the civil magistrates, who may ask the reason; for they are to be treated with honour and esteem, and to be answered in an handsome and becoming manner, suitable to the dignity of their persons and office; as the sanhedrim was by Stephen; and as Felix, Festus, and Agrippa, by the Apostle Paul: and this answer, or reason, is to be given to every man; that has authority to ask, and that asks in a modest manner, and with a reverence suitable to the subject; for the phrases, "with meekness and fear", may respect him that asks the reason, as well as him that gives the answer; for that which is holy is not to be given to dogs, to impudent persons, mockers and scoffers, nor are pearls to be cast before swine, filthy and irreverent persons; see Mat 7:6 the Alexandrian copy, and some others, and so the Vulgate Latin version, read, "but with meekness and fear"; for if it is not asked in such a way, there is no obligation to give an answer: and this is to be given "always"; whenever it is asked in such a manner, and by proper persons; when there is a necessity of it, and as opportunity offers: and saints should be always "ready to" give and therefore it becomes them daily and diligently to search the Scriptures, meditate on them, and get all the help and assistance they can, to lead them into an acquaintance with them, that they may be so; for though the apostles had extraordinary assistance promised them, and therefore were bid not to consider beforehand what they should say, when brought before kings and princes; yet this is not to be expected by ordinary persons, nor in ordinary cases. Agreeably to this is the advice of R. Eleazar (z), "be diligent to learn the law, and know what thou shouldest answer to an Epicure, or heretic: says R. Jochanan (a), "in every place where the Sadducees object, their answer is at their side, or ready; that is, in the same Scriptures on which they form their objections, (z) Pirke Abot, c. 2. sect. 14. (a) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 38. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:14-15 or be afraid of their threats: See Isa 8:13, where God exhorts the prophet to fear nothing except the Lord. • worship Christ as Lord: By fearing Christ, they will be free from fear of their human persecutors.