1 Peter 5:12
Verse
Context
Sermons
Alistair Begg
Zac Poonen
Michael Catt
John Gill
Lewis Sperry ChaferLewis Sperry Chafer
James SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose - To say the least of this translation, it is extremely obscure, and not put together with that elegance which is usual to our translators. I see no reason why the clause may not be thus translated: I have written to you, as I consider, briefly, by Silvanus, the faithful brother. On all hands it is allowed that this Silvanus was the same as Silas, Paul's faithful companion in travel, mentioned Act 15:40; Act 16:19; and, if he were the same, Peter could never say as I suppose to his faith and piety: but he might well say this to the shortness of his epistle, notwithstanding the many and important subjects which it embraced. See the Syriac, Vulgate, etc. If the words be applied to Silvanus, they must be taken in a sense in which they are often used: "I conclude him to be a trustworthy person; one by whom I may safely send this letter; who will take care to travel through the different regions in Asia, Pontus, Galatia, and Bithynia; read it in every Church; and leave a copy for the encouragement and instruction of Christ's flock." And in such a state of the Church, in such countries, no ordinary person could have been intrusted with such a message. Exhorting - Calling upon you to be faithful, humble, and steady. And testifying - Επιμαρτυρων, Earnestly witnessing, that it is the true grace - the genuine Gospel of Jesus Christ, in which ye stand, and in which ye should persevere to the end.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Silvanus--Silas, the companion of Paul and Timothy: a suitable messenger by whom to confirm, as Peter here does, Paul's doctrine of "the true grace of God" in the same churches (compare Pe2 3:16). We never meet with Silvanus as Paul's companion after Paul's last journey to Jerusalem. His connection with Peter was plainly subsequent to that journey. as I suppose--Join "faithful unto you [STEIGER], as I suppose." Silvanus may have stood in a close relation to the churches in Asia, perhaps having taken the oversight of them after Paul's departure, and had afterwards gone to Peter, by whom he is now sent back to them with this Epistle. He did not know, by positive observation, Silvanus' faithfulness to them; he therefore says, "faithful to you, as I suppose," from the accounts I hear; not expressing doubt. ALFORD joins "I have written unto you," which the Greek order favors. The seeming uncertainty, thus, is not as to Silvanus' faithfulness, which strongly marked by the Greek article, but as to whether he or some other would prove to be the bearer of the letter, addressed as it was to five provinces, all of which Silvanus might not reach: "By Silvanus, that faithful brother, as expect, I have Written to you" [BIRKS]. briefly--Greek, "in few (words)," as compared with the importance of the subject (Heb 13:22). exhorting--not so much formally teaching doctrines, which could not be done in so "few words." testifying--bearing my testimony in confirmation (so the Greek compound verb implies) of that truth which ye have already heard from Paul and Silas (Jo1 2:27). that this--of which I have just written, and of which Paul before testified to you (whose testimony, now that he was no longer in those regions, was called in question probably by some; compare Pe2 3:15-16). Pe2 1:12, "the present truth," namely, the grace formerly promised by the prophets, and now manifested to you. "Grace" is the keynote of Paul's doctrine which Peter now confirms (Eph 2:5, Eph 2:8). Their sufferings for the Gospel made them to need some attestation and confirmation of the truth, that they should not fall back from it. wherein ye stand--The oldest manuscripts read imperatively, "Stand ye." Literally, "into which (having been already admitted, Pe1 1:8, Pe1 1:21; Pe1 2:7-9) stand (therein)." Peter seems to have in mind Paul's words (Rom 5:2; Co1 15:1). "The grace wherein we stand must be true, and our standing in it true also" [BENGEL]. Compare in "He began his Epistle with grace (Pe1 1:2), he finishes it with grace, he has besprinkled the middle with grace, that in every part he might teach that the Church is not saved but by grace."
John Gill Bible Commentary
The church that is at Babylon,.... The Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions, supply the word "church", as we do. Some, by "Babylon", understand Rome, which is so called, in a figurative sense, in the book of the Revelations: this is an ancient opinion; so Papias understood it, as (e) Eusebius relates; but that Peter was at Rome, when he wrote this epistle, cannot be proved, nor any reason be given why the proper name of the place should be concealed, and a figurative one expressed. It is best therefore to understand it literally, of Babylon in Assyria, the metropolis of the dispersion of the Jews, and the centre of it, to whom the apostle wrote; and where, as the minister of the circumcision, he may be thought to reside, here being a number of persons converted and formed into a Gospel church state, whereby was fulfilled the prophecy in Psa 87:4 perhaps this church might consist chiefly of Jews, which might be the reason of the apostle's being here, since there were great numbers which continued here, from the time of the captivity, who returned not with Ezra; and these are said by the Jews (f) to be of the purest blood: many of the Jewish doctors lived here; they had three famous universities in this country, and here their Talmud was written, called from hence (g) Babylonian. The church in this place is said to be elected together with you; that is, were chosen together with them in Christ, before the foundation of the world, to grace here, and glory hereafter; or were equally the elect of God as they were, for as such he writes to them, Pe1 1:2 and this the apostle said in a judgment of charity of the whole church, and all the members of it, being under a profession of faith in Christ; and nothing appearing to the contrary, but that their faith was unfeigned, and their profession right and sincere. This Church, he says, saluteth you; wishes all peace, happiness, and prosperity of every kind, and so doth Marcus, my son; either, in a natural sense, his son according to the flesh; since it is certain Peter had a wife, and might have a son, and one of this name: or rather in a spiritual sense, being one that he was either an instrument of converting him, or of instructing him, or was one that was as dear to him as a son; in like manner as the Apostle Paul calls Timothy, and also Titus, his own son. This seems to be Mark the evangelist, who was called John Mark, was Barnabas's sister's son, and his mother's name was Mary; see Col 4:10. He is said (h) to be the interpreter of Peter, and to have wrote his Gospel from what he heard from him; and who approved of it, and confirmed it, and indeed it is said to be his. (e) Eccl. Hist. l. 2. c. 15. (f) T. Bab. Kiddushin, fol. 69. 2. & 71. 2. & Gloss. in ib. (g) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 24. 1. (h) Papias apud Euseb. Hist. Eccl. l. 3. c. 39. Tertullian. adv. Marcion, l. 4. c. 5. Hieron. Catalog. Script. Eccl. sect. 2. 18.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:12 with the help of: This phrase identifies Silas as the amanuensis, the person who wrote the words as Peter directed. • Silas (Greek Silvanus): Silas is the shortened form of Silvanus; both names refer to the same individual. Silas was Paul’s constant colleague after the time of the council in Jerusalem (Acts 15:40; 16:19; 17:10, 14-15; 18:5; 2 Cor 1:19; 1 Thes 1:1; 2 Thes 1:1). We are not sure how Silas ended up with Peter in Rome, but he may have traveled with or followed Paul (Acts 27:1–28:31).
1 Peter 5:12
Benediction and Farewell
11To Him be the power forever and ever. Amen. 12Through Silvanus, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Basic Christianity
By Alistair Begg2.0K30:22Basics1PE 5:12In this sermon transcript, the preacher emphasizes the importance of three foundational elements of genuine Christian experience: grace, love, and peace. He highlights that these elements are essential for individuals to come to terms with a living God, have genuine relationships with others, and find inner peace. The preacher also emphasizes that grace is not something earned or achieved, but a gift from God that should be humbly received. Throughout the letter, Peter consistently points to the true grace of God as the source of salvation and encourages his readers to embrace the good news of the gospel.
The Gospel of the Grace of God (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:00:29ZEC 12:10JHN 1:17ACT 20:24ROM 6:14ROM 8:3HEB 13:91PE 5:12JUD 1:4
This sermon delves into the concept of sin, the choices we face between earthly and heavenly things, and the innate sinful nature in humanity. It emphasizes the need to understand the true grace of God, which delivers us from sin and transforms our hearts, contrasting it with a false grace that permits sin. The speaker highlights the seriousness of sin in God's eyes, drawing attention to Eden and Calvary as pivotal points to grasp the gravity of sin and the sacrificial love of Jesus.
The Church Triumphant
By Michael Catt54253:03ChurchMAT 6:331CO 16:13EPH 6:11PHP 3:171TH 3:82TH 2:151PE 5:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being holy and standing firm in the faith. He draws inspiration from the image of Roman soldiers who never retreated and were willing to die for their cause. The speaker also warns against false teachings and false prophets within the church, urging believers to be discerning and vigilant. He concludes by expressing his deep concern for those who deny the gospel and emphasizing the need for spiritual discernment.
1 Peter 5:12
By John Gill0FaithfulnessTrue Grace of GodACT 15:22ROM 1:16EPH 6:10PHP 1:6COL 1:231TH 5:242TI 1:12HEB 10:231PE 5:122PE 3:17John Gill emphasizes the role of Silvanus as a faithful brother and minister in delivering Peter's message, highlighting the importance of integrity in preaching the Gospel. He asserts that the brevity of the epistle does not diminish its significance, as it conveys the true grace of God that the recipients have embraced and continue to stand firm in. Gill encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, recognizing the assurance and truth of the Gospel they have received.
Safekeeping in Grace
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 3:18JHN 14:1ROM 5:2ROM 8:1ROM 8:31EPH 3:20PHP 1:61PE 5:12Lewis Sperry Chafer emphasizes the believer's standing in grace, highlighting the concept of enduring and continuing in grace. He explains that divine grace is the sole basis for salvation and the only means by which one can be kept saved. Chafer discusses the twofold classification of divine grace - the grace that saves and the grace that keeps, emphasizing that there are not two separate efforts of grace but one indivisible purpose of God. He refutes theological systems that suggest salvation can be lost due to lack of human merit or works, asserting that God's saving and keeping ministries of grace are inseparable and secure for all eternity.
Law and Grace
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0EXO 31:18HAB 2:4MAT 5:17ROM 5:2ROM 6:14ROM 7:22GAL 3:22EPH 1:6EPH 2:81PE 5:12Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the contrasting methods of divine dealing with men through the words 'law' and 'grace'. He explains the various meanings of 'law' as a rule of life, including the Ten Commandments, the Mosaic system, and the principles of the future Messiah's kingdom. Chafer discusses the law as a covenant of works and a principle of dependence on the flesh, highlighting how under grace, every aspect of the law is done away with for the child of God. He then explores the biblical meaning of 'grace' as unmerited favor, emphasizing that God saves sinners, keeps them safe, and provides a rule of life through His grace.
This Is the True Grace of God
By James Smith0ACT 14:3ROM 3:24ROM 5:17ROM 6:142CO 8:92CO 12:9EPH 1:72TI 1:9TIT 2:111PE 5:12James Smith preaches about the true grace of God, emphasizing that it is the free, sovereign, and eternal favor of God towards sinners in Christ. The Father chooses, the Son redeems, and the Spirit sanctifies those who are recipients of this divine grace, leading them to glory. True grace is different from human conceptions, as it is the root of holiness, brings faith, obedience, and consolation, and leads to a transformed life in communion with God.
That the Outward Manifestations of Them, and the Relation Persons Give of Them, Are Very Affecting and Pleasing to the Godly, Is No Sign
By Jonathan Edwards01SA 16:7ISA 11:3MAT 13:26ROM 14:61CO 4:51PE 5:12REV 2:17Jonathan Edwards preaches about the uncertainty of judging others' religious affections solely based on outward manifestations, emphasizing that true saints cannot discern the hearts of others and should proceed with caution in determining others' spiritual states. He warns against being quick to judge and highlights the danger of being deceived by outward appearances, as even bright professors of faith can fall away. Edwards explains that error or mistake may lead to gracious exercises of the Spirit of God, and that love flowing out towards others is not a reliable indicator of their true spiritual state.
Love's Last Letter
By Christopher Love0PRO 19:27PRO 31:1ROM 8:282CO 1:5PHP 4:7COL 3:171TH 5:161TI 1:51PE 3:41PE 5:12Christopher Love, a martyr for his faith, writes a heartfelt letter to his wife on the day of his execution, encouraging her to find comfort in God's promises and to continue raising their children in the ways of the Lord. He emphasizes the importance of sound biblical teaching, prayer, meekness, and gratitude in the midst of trials. Love urges his wife to trust in God's covenant of grace and to surrender her will to God's, finding strength and joy in the Lord's presence. Despite the impending separation, he reassures her of his eternal union with Christ and advises her on potential remarriage, urging her to seek a godly partner.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose - To say the least of this translation, it is extremely obscure, and not put together with that elegance which is usual to our translators. I see no reason why the clause may not be thus translated: I have written to you, as I consider, briefly, by Silvanus, the faithful brother. On all hands it is allowed that this Silvanus was the same as Silas, Paul's faithful companion in travel, mentioned Act 15:40; Act 16:19; and, if he were the same, Peter could never say as I suppose to his faith and piety: but he might well say this to the shortness of his epistle, notwithstanding the many and important subjects which it embraced. See the Syriac, Vulgate, etc. If the words be applied to Silvanus, they must be taken in a sense in which they are often used: "I conclude him to be a trustworthy person; one by whom I may safely send this letter; who will take care to travel through the different regions in Asia, Pontus, Galatia, and Bithynia; read it in every Church; and leave a copy for the encouragement and instruction of Christ's flock." And in such a state of the Church, in such countries, no ordinary person could have been intrusted with such a message. Exhorting - Calling upon you to be faithful, humble, and steady. And testifying - Επιμαρτυρων, Earnestly witnessing, that it is the true grace - the genuine Gospel of Jesus Christ, in which ye stand, and in which ye should persevere to the end.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Silvanus--Silas, the companion of Paul and Timothy: a suitable messenger by whom to confirm, as Peter here does, Paul's doctrine of "the true grace of God" in the same churches (compare Pe2 3:16). We never meet with Silvanus as Paul's companion after Paul's last journey to Jerusalem. His connection with Peter was plainly subsequent to that journey. as I suppose--Join "faithful unto you [STEIGER], as I suppose." Silvanus may have stood in a close relation to the churches in Asia, perhaps having taken the oversight of them after Paul's departure, and had afterwards gone to Peter, by whom he is now sent back to them with this Epistle. He did not know, by positive observation, Silvanus' faithfulness to them; he therefore says, "faithful to you, as I suppose," from the accounts I hear; not expressing doubt. ALFORD joins "I have written unto you," which the Greek order favors. The seeming uncertainty, thus, is not as to Silvanus' faithfulness, which strongly marked by the Greek article, but as to whether he or some other would prove to be the bearer of the letter, addressed as it was to five provinces, all of which Silvanus might not reach: "By Silvanus, that faithful brother, as expect, I have Written to you" [BIRKS]. briefly--Greek, "in few (words)," as compared with the importance of the subject (Heb 13:22). exhorting--not so much formally teaching doctrines, which could not be done in so "few words." testifying--bearing my testimony in confirmation (so the Greek compound verb implies) of that truth which ye have already heard from Paul and Silas (Jo1 2:27). that this--of which I have just written, and of which Paul before testified to you (whose testimony, now that he was no longer in those regions, was called in question probably by some; compare Pe2 3:15-16). Pe2 1:12, "the present truth," namely, the grace formerly promised by the prophets, and now manifested to you. "Grace" is the keynote of Paul's doctrine which Peter now confirms (Eph 2:5, Eph 2:8). Their sufferings for the Gospel made them to need some attestation and confirmation of the truth, that they should not fall back from it. wherein ye stand--The oldest manuscripts read imperatively, "Stand ye." Literally, "into which (having been already admitted, Pe1 1:8, Pe1 1:21; Pe1 2:7-9) stand (therein)." Peter seems to have in mind Paul's words (Rom 5:2; Co1 15:1). "The grace wherein we stand must be true, and our standing in it true also" [BENGEL]. Compare in "He began his Epistle with grace (Pe1 1:2), he finishes it with grace, he has besprinkled the middle with grace, that in every part he might teach that the Church is not saved but by grace."
John Gill Bible Commentary
The church that is at Babylon,.... The Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions, supply the word "church", as we do. Some, by "Babylon", understand Rome, which is so called, in a figurative sense, in the book of the Revelations: this is an ancient opinion; so Papias understood it, as (e) Eusebius relates; but that Peter was at Rome, when he wrote this epistle, cannot be proved, nor any reason be given why the proper name of the place should be concealed, and a figurative one expressed. It is best therefore to understand it literally, of Babylon in Assyria, the metropolis of the dispersion of the Jews, and the centre of it, to whom the apostle wrote; and where, as the minister of the circumcision, he may be thought to reside, here being a number of persons converted and formed into a Gospel church state, whereby was fulfilled the prophecy in Psa 87:4 perhaps this church might consist chiefly of Jews, which might be the reason of the apostle's being here, since there were great numbers which continued here, from the time of the captivity, who returned not with Ezra; and these are said by the Jews (f) to be of the purest blood: many of the Jewish doctors lived here; they had three famous universities in this country, and here their Talmud was written, called from hence (g) Babylonian. The church in this place is said to be elected together with you; that is, were chosen together with them in Christ, before the foundation of the world, to grace here, and glory hereafter; or were equally the elect of God as they were, for as such he writes to them, Pe1 1:2 and this the apostle said in a judgment of charity of the whole church, and all the members of it, being under a profession of faith in Christ; and nothing appearing to the contrary, but that their faith was unfeigned, and their profession right and sincere. This Church, he says, saluteth you; wishes all peace, happiness, and prosperity of every kind, and so doth Marcus, my son; either, in a natural sense, his son according to the flesh; since it is certain Peter had a wife, and might have a son, and one of this name: or rather in a spiritual sense, being one that he was either an instrument of converting him, or of instructing him, or was one that was as dear to him as a son; in like manner as the Apostle Paul calls Timothy, and also Titus, his own son. This seems to be Mark the evangelist, who was called John Mark, was Barnabas's sister's son, and his mother's name was Mary; see Col 4:10. He is said (h) to be the interpreter of Peter, and to have wrote his Gospel from what he heard from him; and who approved of it, and confirmed it, and indeed it is said to be his. (e) Eccl. Hist. l. 2. c. 15. (f) T. Bab. Kiddushin, fol. 69. 2. & 71. 2. & Gloss. in ib. (g) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 24. 1. (h) Papias apud Euseb. Hist. Eccl. l. 3. c. 39. Tertullian. adv. Marcion, l. 4. c. 5. Hieron. Catalog. Script. Eccl. sect. 2. 18.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:12 with the help of: This phrase identifies Silas as the amanuensis, the person who wrote the words as Peter directed. • Silas (Greek Silvanus): Silas is the shortened form of Silvanus; both names refer to the same individual. Silas was Paul’s constant colleague after the time of the council in Jerusalem (Acts 15:40; 16:19; 17:10, 14-15; 18:5; 2 Cor 1:19; 1 Thes 1:1; 2 Thes 1:1). We are not sure how Silas ended up with Peter in Rome, but he may have traveled with or followed Paul (Acts 27:1–28:31).