1 Peter

1 Peter front

Introduction to 1 Peter

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of 1 Peter

1. Introduction (1:1–2)
2. Peter reminds the believers of their identity in Christ (1:3–2:10)
   • Peter praises God for saving the believers (1:3–12)
   • Command to be holy (1:13–21)
3. Command to love each other as a family (1:22–2:10)
4. Peter tells the believers how they should behave (2:11–4:11)
   • How believers should act toward other people (2:11–3:12)
   • How believers should endure suffering (3:13–4:6)
   • The end is near (4:7–11)
5. Peter encourages the believers to persevere when suffering (4:12–5:11)
   • How believers should respond to trials (4:12–19)
   • Instructions for relationships among believers (5:1–11)
6. Conclusion (5:12–14)

Who wrote the Book of 1 Peter?

The author identified himself as Peter, who was also called Simon Peter. He was an apostle and also wrote the book of 2 Peter. Peter probably wrote this letter in Rome. He wrote the letter to Gentile Christians scattered throughout Asia Minor. (See: Peter, Simon Peter, Cephas)

What is the Book of 1 Peter about?

Peter wrote this letter to encourage Gentile Christians who were being persecuted and to exhort them to stand firm in “the true grace of God” (5:12). Peter told his readers how they should act in the midst of a society that hated them. He encouraged Christians to continue obeying God even when they are suffering. He told them to do this because Jesus will return soon. Peter also instructed Christians about submitting to persons in authority.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title “1 Peter” or “First Peter.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “The First Letter from Peter” or “The First Letter Peter Wrote.” (See: How to Translate Names)

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

How were Christians treated in Rome?

Peter was probably in Rome when he wrote this letter. In 5:13 Peter referred to Rome symbolically as “Babylon.” It appears that when Peter wrote this letter, Romans were severely persecuting Christians.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Singular and plural “you”

In this book, the word “I” refers to Peter, except for two places: 1 Peter 1:16 and 1 Peter 2:6. The word “you” is always plural and refers to Peter’s audience. (See: Forms of You)

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 1 Peter?

“Having purified your souls by obedience to the truth for sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart” (1:22). The ULT, UST, and most other modern versions read this way. Some older versions read, “Having purified your souls by obedience to the truth through the Spirit for sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from the heart.” Translators are advised to follow the modern reading.

(See: Textual Variants)

1 Peter 1

1 Peter 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1. Introduction (1:1–2)
2. Peter praises God for saving the believers (1:3–12)
3. Command to be holy (1:13–21)
4. Command to love each other as a family (1:22–2:10)

Peter begins this letter in 1:1–2 by giving his name, identifying the people to whom he is writing, and offering a greeting. That was the way people typically began letters at that time.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 1:24–25.

Special concepts in this chapter

What God reveals

When Jesus comes again, everyone will see how good God’s people were to have faith in Jesus. Then God’s people will see how gracious God has been to them, and all people will praise both God and his people.

Holiness

God wants his people to be holy because God is holy (1:15). (See: holy, holiness, unholy, sacred)

Eternity

Peter tells Christians to live for things that will last forever and not to live for the things of this world, which will end. (See: eternity, everlasting, eternal, forever)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. Peter writes that his readers are glad and sad at the same time (1 Peter 1:6). He can say this because they are sad because they are suffering, but they are also glad because they know that God will save them “in the last time” (1 Peter 1:5)

1 Peter 1:1

Πέτρος

In this culture, letter writers would give their own names first, and they would refer to themselves in the third person. If that would be confusing in your language, you could use the first person. If your language has a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, you could also use that. Alternate translation: “I, Peter, am writing this letter” or “From Peter” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Πέτρος

Peter is the name of a man, a disciple of Jesus. See the information about him in Part 1 of the Introduction to 1 Peter. (See: How to Translate Names)

ἀπόστολος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

This phrase gives further information about Simon Peter. He describes himself as being someone given the position and authority of being Christ’s apostle. (See: Distinguishing Versus Informing or Reminding)

ἐκλεκτοῖς παρεπιδήμοις

In this culture, after giving their own names, letter writers would then say to whom they were writing, naming those people in the third person. If that would be confusing in your language, you could use the second person. Alternate translation: “to you elect exiles” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

ἐκλεκτοῖς παρεπιδήμοις διασπορᾶς

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of elect and dispersion, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “to those whom God has elected and exiled among those whom God has dispersed” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἐκλεκτοῖς παρεπιδήμοις διασπορᾶς

When Peter calls his readers exiles he could mean: (1) they are exiles because they are far away from their true home in heaven. Alternate translation: “to the elect exiles of the dispersion who are far from their home in heaven” (2) they are exiles because they were forced to leave their homes and go far away to Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. Alternate translation: “to you elect exiles of the dispersion who are far away from your homes” (See: Metaphor)

διασπορᾶς

Here, dispersion could refer to: (1) groups of Gentile Christians who were spread throughout the world instead of in their true home in heaven. In this case, dispersion would have a similar meaning to exiles and would add emphasis. Alternate translation: “among those dispersed outside of their true home in heaven” (2) the groups of Jewish people who were spread across the Greek-speaking world that was outside of the land of Israel, which is the common technical meaning for this word. Alternate translation: “among the dispersed Jews” (See: Metaphor)

Πόντου, Γαλατίας, Καππαδοκίας, Ἀσίας, καὶ Βιθυνίας

Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia are names of Roman provinces that were located in what is now the country of Turkey. (See: How to Translate Names)

1 Peter 1:2

πρόγνωσιν Θεοῦ Πατρός

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of foreknowledge, you could express the same idea with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “what God the Father foreknew” (See: Abstract Nouns)

πρόγνωσιν Θεοῦ Πατρός

This phrase could mean: (1) God had determined what would happen ahead of time. Alternate translation: “what God the Father planned previously” (2) God knew what would happen ahead of time. Alternate translation: “what God the Father knew beforehand” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Πατρός

Father is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

ἐν ἁγιασμῷ Πνεύματος

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sanctification, you could express the same idea with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “by the Spirit sanctifying you” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἐν ἁγιασμῷ Πνεύματος

Peter is using the possessive form to describe sanctification that is produced by the Holy Spirit. If this is not clear in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by the Spirit causing you to be sanctified” (See: Possession)

εἰς ὑπακοὴν καὶ ῥαντισμὸν αἵματος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

Here, obedience could refer to: (1) obeying God. Alternate translation: “for obedience of God and the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ” (2) obeying Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “for obedience of Jesus Christ and the sprinkling of his blood” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εἰς ὑπακοὴν

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of obedience, you could express the same idea with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “for you to obey” (See: Abstract Nouns)

εἰς ὑπακοὴν

Here, for introduces a purpose clause. Peter is stating a purpose for which the Holy Spirit sanctifies believers. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of obedience” (See: Connect — Goal (Purpose) Relationship)

ῥαντισμὸν αἵματος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

Peter uses sprinkling figuratively to refer to believers being in a covenant relationship with God. Just as Moses sprinkled blood on the people of Israel in Exodus 24:1–11 to symbolize them joining in a covenant relationship with God, believers are joined in a covenant relationship with God by means of Jesus’ death. Moses also sprinkled blood on the priests to set them apart to serve God as priests (Leviticus 8:30). If your readers would not understand this, you could use a simile or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the covenant between believers and God established by the blood of Jesus Christ” (See: Metaphor)

αἵματος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

Here, blood refers figuratively to the death of Jesus. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “of the death of Jesus Christ” (See: Metonymy)

χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη πληθυνθείη

In this culture, letter writers would offer a good wish for the recipient before introducing the main business of the letter. Use a form in your language that makes it clear that this is a greeting and blessing. Alternate translation: “May God increase his kind acts to you and make you more peaceful” (See: Blessings)

χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη πληθυνθείη

If your readers would misunderstand the abstract nouns grace and peace, you could express the ideas behind them with equivalent expressions. Alternate translation: “May God multiply his kind acts to you and give you a more peaceful spirit” (See: Abstract Nouns)

χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη πληθυνθείη

Peter speaks of grace and peace as if they were objects that could increase in size or number. If this is confusing in your language, you can use a different metaphor that means that these things will increase, or use plain language. Alternate translation: “May grace and peace increase in your lives” (See: Metaphor)

χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη πληθυνθείη

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “May God multiply grace and peace to you” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 1:3

Peter begins to talk about the believers’ salvation and faith. Verses 3–5 are one sentence, but you may need to divide them into shorter sentences in your language.

εὐλογητὸς

Peter is using a statement to give an exhortation. If this is confusing in your language, you can use a more natural form for exhortation. Alternate translation: “Let us bless” or “Let us praise” (See: Statements — Other Uses)

Πατὴρ

Father is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

ἡμῶν…ἡμᾶς

The words our and us are inclusive. They refer to Peter and those believers to whom he is writing. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν

Peter is using the possessive form to describe Jesus as the Lord who rules over those who believe in him. If this is not clear in your language, you could state the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the person who is lord over us” or “of the person who rules over us.” (See: Possession)

ὁ κατὰ τὸ πολὺ αὐτοῦ ἔλεος

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of mercy, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “according to his great merciful character” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἀναγεννήσας ἡμᾶς

The phrase born again is a metaphor that refers to spiritual rebirth. Since this is an important metaphor in the Bible, you should keep it in your translation and include an explanation if necessary. Alternate translation: “has caused us to be spiritually reborn” (See: Metaphor)

ἀναγεννήσας ἡμᾶς εἰς ἐλπίδα ζῶσαν, δι’ ἀναστάσεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐκ νεκρῶν

The clause into a living hope is parallel to “into an imperishable and undefiled and unfading inheritance” in the next verse. If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of the phrases in this verse in order to show that parallel structure. Alternate translation: “who has caused us to be born again through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from dead ones into a living hope” (See: Information Structure)

εἰς ἐλπίδα ζῶσαν

Here, into introduces a purpose clause. Peter is stating a purpose for which God causes believers to be born again. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of giving us a living hope” (See: Connect — Goal (Purpose) Relationship)

εἰς ἐλπίδα ζῶσαν

Peter uses living figuratively to describe hope that is certain and will not lead to disappointment. If this use of living might confuse your readers, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “into a hope that will not disappoint you” (See: Metaphor)

δι’ ἀναστάσεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐκ νεκρῶν

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of resurrection, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “through Jesus Christ being resurrected from among dead ones” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 1:4

εἰς κληρονομίαν ἄφθαρτον, καὶ ἀμίαντον, καὶ ἀμάραντον

Here, into introduces a purpose clause. Peter is stating a second purpose for which God causes believers to be born again. This clause states what the “living hope” in the previous verse is. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of giving us an imperishable and undefiled and unfading inheritance” (See: Connect — Goal (Purpose) Relationship)

εἰς κληρονομίαν ἄφθαρτον, καὶ ἀμίαντον, καὶ ἀμάραντον

If it would be clearer in your language, you can translate inheritance using a verb. Alternate translation: “into what we will inherit that is imperishable and undefiled and unfading” (See: Abstract Nouns)

κληρονομίαν ἄφθαρτον, καὶ ἀμίαντον, καὶ ἀμάραντον

Peter uses inheritance figuratively to refer to what we will receive in heaven. This could refer to: (1) salvation after this life. Alternate translation: “an imperishable and undefiled and unfading salvation” (2) future blessings in heaven after this life. Alternate translation: “imperishable and undefiled and unfading blessings” (See: Metaphor)

τετηρημένην ἐν οὐρανοῖς εἰς ὑμᾶς

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which God has kept in heaven for you” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 1:5

τοὺς ἐν δυνάμει Θεοῦ φρουρουμένους

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the ones whom God is protecting with his power” (See: Active or Passive)

διὰ πίστεως

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “by believing in Jesus” (See: Abstract Nouns)

εἰς σωτηρίαν

Here, for introduces a purpose clause. Peter is stating a purpose for which God is protecting believers. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of giving us a salvation” (See: Connect — Goal (Purpose) Relationship)

εἰς σωτηρίαν ἑτοίμην ἀποκαλυφθῆναι

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “for the time when God saves you, which is ready to be revealed” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἑτοίμην ἀποκαλυφθῆναι

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that God is ready to reveal” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐν καιρῷ ἐσχάτῳ

Here, the last time refers to “the day of the Lord,” which is the time when Jesus returns to the world to judge everyone and vindicate those who believe in him. (See: day of the Lord, day of Yahweh) If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the last time when Jesus returns and judges everyone” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

1 Peter 1:6

ἐν ᾧ

Here, this could refer to: (1) the “last time” referred to at the end of the last verse. Alternate translation: “in this last time” (2) everything described in verses 3–5. Alternate translation: “in all of this that I have said” (See: Pronouns — When to Use Them)

ἐν ᾧ ἀγαλλιᾶσθε

In here introduces the reason why Peter’s readers rejoice. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “On account of this you greatly rejoice” (See: Connect — Reason-and-Result Relationship)

ἄρτι, εἰ δέον λυπηθέντες

Peter is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Peter is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “if now it is necessary to have been distressed, and it is” (See: Connect — Factual Conditions)

ὀλίγον ἄρτι, εἰ δέον λυπηθέντες ἐν ποικίλοις πειρασμοῖς

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “if now it is necessary for various trials to distress you a little while” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 1:7

ἵνα τὸ δοκίμιον ὑμῶν τῆς πίστεως

In the same way in which fire refines gold, hardships test how well believers trust in Christ. (See: Metaphor)

τὸ δοκίμιον ὑμῶν τῆς πίστεως

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of genuineness and faith, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “the fact that you genuinely believe” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἵνα τὸ δοκίμιον ὑμῶν τῆς πίστεως πολυτιμότερον χρυσίου τοῦ ἀπολλυμένου, διὰ πυρὸς δὲ δοκιμαζομένου, εὑρεθῇ εἰς ἔπαινον, καὶ δόξαν, καὶ τιμὴν, ἐν ἀποκαλύψει Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “so that the genuineness of your faith might be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; that faith is more precious than the perishing gold, but being tested by fire” (See: Information Structure)

ὑμῶν τῆς πίστεως πολυτιμότερον χρυσίου τοῦ ἀπολλυμένου, διὰ πυρὸς δὲ δοκιμαζομένου

In this clause Peter means that faith is more valuable than gold because faith lasts forever but gold does not, even if it is refined by someone passing it through fire. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. It may be helpful to make this a separate sentence. Alternate translation: “of your faith, which is more precious than gold because even gold that is tested by fire can perish, but your faith will not perish” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εὑρεθῇ εἰς ἔπαινον, καὶ δόξαν, καὶ τιμὴν

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “it might result in praise and glory and honor” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐν ἀποκαλύψει Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

Peter assumes that his readers will know that he is referring to the future revelation of Jesus Christ when Jesus returns to earth. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the future revelation of Jesus Christ” or “when Jesus Christ reveals himself again in the future” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐν ἀποκαλύψει Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of revelation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “at the time when Jesus Christ is revealed” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 1:8

χαρᾷ ἀνεκλαλήτῳ καὶ δεδοξασμένῃ

Here, inexpressible and filled with glory mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that how great the joy is If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “with joy so great that words cannot describe it” (See: Doublet)

1 Peter 1:9

κομιζόμενοι…σωτηρίαν

Here Peter speaks figuratively of salvation as if it were an object that someone could receive. If this would confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “experiencing … the salvation” (See: Metaphor)

τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “of you believing in Jesus” (See: Abstract Nouns)

σωτηρίαν ψυχῶν

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “God saving your souls” (See: Abstract Nouns)

σωτηρίαν ψυχῶν

Here, souls refers to the individual Christians to whom Peter is writing this letter. If this might confuse your readers, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “your salvation” (See: Synecdoche)

1 Peter 1:10

ἐξεζήτησαν καὶ ἐξηραύνησαν

The phrases searched and inquired carefully mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how hard the prophets tried to understand this salvation. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “examined very carefully” (See: Doublet)

ἧς σωτηρίας

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “God saving you” (See: Abstract Nouns)

εἰς ὑμᾶς χάριτος

Here, this grace refers to this salvation mentioned earlier in this verse. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “God being gracious to you by saving you” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 1:11

εἰς τίνα ἢ ποῖον καιρὸν

The word translated whom could also be translated “what.” In that case, “what” would refer to the time when salvation would take place and what time would then refer to the specific circumstances. However, most translations agree with the ULT’s use of whom. Alternate translation: “into what time or what circumstances” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὸ…Πνεῦμα Χριστοῦ

Peter is using the possessive form to describe the Holy Spirit as being the Spirit* that is associated with **Christ. If this is not clear in your language, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit associated with Christ” (See: Possession)

προμαρτυρόμενον

This could indicate: (1) the time when the Spirit of Christ was revealing information to the prophets. Alternate translation: “when testifying beforehand” (2) the means by which the Spirit of Christ was revealing information to the prophets. Alternate translation: “by means of testifying beforehand”

τὰ εἰς Χριστὸν παθήματα, καὶ τὰς μετὰ ταῦτα δόξας

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of sufferings and glories, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “about how Christ would suffer and glorious things would happen afterwards” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 1:12

οἷς ἀπεκαλύφθη

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God revealed to them” (See: Active or Passive)

ἃ νῦν ἀνηγγέλη ὑμῖν, διὰ τῶν εὐαγγελισαμένων ὑμᾶς

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which those who proclaimed the gospel to you have now declared to you” (See: Active or Passive)

Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ ἀποσταλέντι ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ

This phrase indicates the means by which the evangelists proclaimed the gospel to Peter’s readers. Peter uses the Holy Spirit here to refer specifically to the Holy Spirit’s work of giving those evangelists the ability or power to proclaim the gospel effectively. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven enabling them to do so” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀποσταλέντι ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See the UST. (See: Active or Passive)

εἰς ἃ

Here, things refers to what God had revealed to the prophets and some evangelists had proclaimed to Peter’s readers. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “into which things God revealed to the prophets and which were declared to you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εἰς ἃ ἐπιθυμοῦσιν ἄγγελοι παρακύψαι

Peter uses look figuratively to refer to getting a clearer understanding of what God has revealed about salvation. This does not mean that the angels do not understand salvation at all. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “things which angels desire to understand more clearly” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 1:13

διὸ

Therefore here refers back to everything that Peter has written in verses 1–12. If it might be helpful to your readers, you could say this concisely. Alternate translation: “Since all these things I have just written are true” (See: Connecting Words and Phrases)

ἀναζωσάμενοι τὰς ὀσφύας τῆς διανοίας ὑμῶν, νήφοντες, τελείως ἐλπίσατε

The clauses having girded up the loins of your mind and being sober could indicate: (1) two commands in addition to the command to hope fully that occurs next in the sentence. Alternate translation: “gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, hope fully” (2) two actions that are means by which Peter wants his readers to obey the command to hope fully. Alternate translation: “hope fully, by having girded up the loins of your mind and by being sober” (See: Statements — Other Uses)

ἀναζωσάμενοι τὰς ὀσφύας τῆς διανοίας ὑμῶν

Girding up the loins is an idiom that means to prepare to work hard. It comes from the custom of tucking the bottom of one’s robe into a belt around the waist in order to move with ease. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “having prepared your minds for action” (See: Idiom)

νήφοντες

Here Peter uses sober figuratively to refer to mental clarity and alertness. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “thinking clearly” (See: Metaphor)

τὴν φερομένην ὑμῖν χάριν

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the grace God is bringing to you” (See: Active or Passive)

τὴν φερομένην ὑμῖν χάριν

Here Peter speaks of grace as if it were an object that could be brought to people. If this might confuse you readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the grace God is giving to you” (See: Metaphor)

τὴν φερομένην ὑμῖν χάριν

Here, the grace refers to salvation, as it also does in verse 10. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the gracious salvation being brought to you” (See: Metonymy)

ἀποκαλύψει Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

See how you translated this phrase in verse 7. (See: Possession)

1 Peter 1:14

τέκνα ὑπακοῆς

Here Peter uses children figuratively to refer to people who love and obey God. The relationship between God and those who love him is like the relationship between a father and his children. Because this is an important concept in the Bible, you should not say the meaning plainly here, but you may use a simile. Alternate translation: “like children of obedience” (See: Metaphor)

τέκνα ὑπακοῆς

Peter is using the possessive form to describe children who are characterized by obedience. If this is not clear in your language, you could use the adjective “obedient” instead of the noun “obedience.” Alternate translation: “obedient children” (See: Possession)

μὴ συνσχηματιζόμενοι ταῖς πρότερον…ἐπιθυμίαις

Here, not being conformed to is an idiom meaning “not letting one’s life be controlled by.” If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “not being controlled by your former desires” (See: Idiom)

μὴ συνσχηματιζόμενοι ταῖς πρότερον…ἐπιθυμίαις

Peter is using a statement to give a command. If this is confusing in your language, you can use a more natural form for a command. Alternate translation: “do not be conformed to your former desires” (See: Statements — Other Uses)

ἐν τῇ ἀγνοίᾳ ὑμῶν

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of ignorance, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “when you were ignorant” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 1:15

τὸν καλέσαντα ὑμᾶς

This phrase refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “God who called you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐν πάσῃ ἀναστροφῇ

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of behavior, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in how you conduct yourselves” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 1:16

γέγραπται

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Moses was the author of the quotation that follows. Alternate translation: “Moses had written” (See: Active or Passive)

γέγραπται

Here Peter uses it is written to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Leviticus 11:44). If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Peter is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “it had been written in the scriptures” (See: Quotations and Quote Margins)

ἅγιοι ἔσεσθε

Peter quotes God using a future statement to give a command. If this is confusing in your language, you can use a more natural form for a command, as in the UST. (See: Statements — Other Uses)

ὅτι ἐγὼ ἅγιος

In this quotation from the Old Testament I refers to God. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because I, God, am holy” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

1 Peter 1:17

εἰ…ἐπικαλεῖσθε

Peter is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Peter is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “because you call” (See: Connect — Factual Conditions)

τὸν ἀπροσωπολήμπτως κρίνοντα

This phrase refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “God who judges impartially” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὸν τῆς παροικίας ὑμῶν χρόνον

Here Peter speaks of his readers as if they were people living in a foreign land far away from their home. Like people living away from home, so are Christians living away from their home in heaven. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “during the time that you are living away from your true home” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 1:18

οὐ φθαρτοῖς, ἀργυρίῳ ἢ χρυσίῳ, ἐλυτρώθητε ἐκ τῆς ματαίας ὑμῶν ἀναστροφῆς πατροπαραδότου

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “you have been redeemed from your futile behavior handed down from your fathers, not with perishable things, with silver or with gold” (See: Information Structure)

ἐλυτρώθητε

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has redeemed you” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐκ τῆς ματαίας ὑμῶν ἀναστροφῆς πατροπαραδότου

Here, handed down figuratively refers to one generation teaching futile behavior to another generation, as if that behavior was an object that could be passed by hand from one person to another. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from your futile behavior taught to you by your fathers” (See: Metaphor)

ἐκ τῆς ματαίας ὑμῶν ἀναστροφῆς

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of behavior, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “from behaving in futile ways” (See: Abstract Nouns)

πατροπαραδότου

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that your fathers handed down” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 1:19

τιμίῳ αἵματι…Χριστοῦ

Peter uses the blood of Christ figuratively to refer to Jesus’ death. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “with Christ’s precious death” (See: Metonymy)

ὡς ἀμνοῦ ἀμώμου καὶ ἀσπίλου

Peter compares Jesus’ blood to the blood of the lambs that the Jewish priests sacrificed to God because of the people’s sins. The point of this comparison is that Jesus died as a sacrifice so that God would forgive people’s sins. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “like that of the unblemished and spotless lambs that the Jewish priests sacrificed to God for sins” (See: Simile)

ἀμώμου καὶ ἀσπίλου

The words unblemished and spotless basically the same thing. Peter uses this repetition to emphasize that Christ was completely perfect. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “completely perfect” or “with no imperfections at all” (See: Doublet)

1 Peter 1:20

προεγνωσμένου

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God having foreknown him” (See: Active or Passive)

προεγνωσμένου

This phrase could mean: (1) God had determined what Christ would do. Alternate translation: “having been planned previously” (2) God knew what what Christ would do ahead of time. Alternate translation: “having been known beforehand” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πρὸ καταβολῆς κόσμου

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of foundation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “before God founded the world” (See: Abstract Nouns)

φανερωθέντος

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God having revealed him” (See: Active or Passive)

φανερωθέντος

Here, revealing refers to the first time Jesus came to the earth. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “having been revealed when he came to earth” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐπ’ ἐσχάτου τῶν χρόνων

Here, the last of the times refers to the final period of history which began when Jesus came to the earth for the first time. This period will end when Jesus returns. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “in this final time period of history” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

1 Peter 1:21

τὸν ἐγείραντα αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν

Here, to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “who caused him to live again so that he was no longer among the dead people” (See: Idiom)

δόξαν αὐτῷ δόντα

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “has glorified him” or “has showed that he is glorious” (See: Abstract Nouns)

τὴν πίστιν ὑμῶν καὶ ἐλπίδα, εἶναι εἰς Θεόν

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of faith and hope, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “you would believe and hope in God” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 1:22

τὰς ψυχὰς ὑμῶν ἡγνικότες

Having purified here figuratively refers to the being forgiven for sins. Sin in the Bible is often referred to as something that makes people dirty and the forgiveness for sin is referred to as the removal of that dirt. God is the one who forgives sins and purifies those who believe in Jesus. However, here Peter is referring to his readers’ responsibility in their salvation, which is the responsibility to repent and believe that the gospel is true. Alternate translation: “Having made your souls spiritually pure” or Having cleansed your souls from sin” (See: Metaphor)

τὰς ψυχὰς

See how you translated souls in verse 9. (See: Synecdoche)

ἐν τῇ ὑπακοῇ τῆς ἀληθείας

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of obedience and truth, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “by obeying what is true” or “by obeying the true information” (See: Abstract Nouns)

τῆς ἀληθείας

Here, the truth refers to the true teaching about Jesus, which includes the command to repent and believe the gospel. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the true message about Jesus” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

φιλαδελφίαν

Although brotherly is masculine, Peter is using the phrase brotherly love in a generic sense to refer to the kind of love that all believers should have for other believers. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “love for fellow believers” (See: When Masculine Words Include Women)

ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας, ἀλλήλους ἀγαπήσατε ἐκτενῶς\r

Peter uses heart here figuratively to refer to a person’s thoughts or emotions. The word from indicates that the heart must be the source of the love that Peter is telling his readers to have. Therefore, this phrase has a similar meaning to the word “sincere” in the previous clause. If this would confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “love one another earnestly based on sincere thoughts” (See: Metonymy)

1 Peter 1:23

ἀναγεγεννημένοι

See how you translated born again in verse 3. (See: Metaphor)

οὐκ ἐκ σπορᾶς φθαρτῆς

The word seed usually refers to either the seed of a plant or the sperm cell of a man that is used to produce a baby. However, here Peter uses seed as a metaphor. It could refer to: (1) the word of God mentioned later in the verse. In this case, Peter is saying what the word of God is not. Alternate translation: “not by means of a word of God than can perish” (2) physical human birth, in which case the meaning is similar to the idea expressed in John 1:13. Alternate translation: “not by means of mortal physical birth” (See: Metaphor)

ἀφθάρτου

Peter is leaving out a word that a phrase would need in many languages to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply the word from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “from imperishable seed” (See: Ellipsis)

λόγου ζῶντος Θεοῦ, καὶ μένοντος

Here, Peter uses word figuratively to describe the gospel message that came from God and was proclaimed to Peter’s readers by using words. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God’s living and enduring message about Jesus” (See: Metonymy)

ζῶντος…καὶ μένοντος

These two words mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that God’s word is permanent. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “perpetually enduring” (See: Doublet)

1 Peter 1:24

διότι

For here introduces a quotation of some phrases from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 40:6–8). If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Peter is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “It is as Isaiah wrote in the scriptures” (See: Quotations and Quote Margins)

πᾶσα σὰρξ ὡς χόρτος, καὶ πᾶσα δόξα αὐτῆς ὡς ἄνθος χόρτου. ἐξηράνθη ὁ χόρτος, καὶ τὸ ἄνθος ἐξέπεσεν,

In these clauses and the first clause of the next verse, Peter quotes parts of Isaiah 40:6–8. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: Quote Markings)

πᾶσα σὰρξ

Here Peter quotes Isaiah using the term flesh figuratively to refer to human beings in general, which are made of flesh. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “All humankind” or “Everyone” (See: Metonymy)

πᾶσα δόξα αὐτῆς

Here, glory refers to whatever is beautiful or magnificent about humankind. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “everything that is glorious about humankind” (See: Metaphor)

ἄνθος χόρτου. ἐξηράνθη ὁ χόρτος, καὶ τὸ ἄνθος ἐξέπεσεν

Peter quotes Isaiah speaking of grass and flowers in general, not of one particular blade of grass or flower. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “flowers of grass. Grass dried up, and flowers fell off” (See: Generic Noun Phrases)

ἄνθος χόρτου

Here Peter quotes Isaiah using the possessive form to describe the flower that grows in the grass. If this is not clear in your language, you could use say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the flowing that grows in the grass” (See: Possession)

ἐξηράνθη ὁ χόρτος

In this clause the prophet Isaiah continues the comparison between humankind and grass. Just like grass dies quickly, so human beings only live a short time. If this would confuse your readers, you could express this meaning by repeating the simile language from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “Like the grass dries up, so do people die after a short time” (See: Simile)

τὸ ἄνθος ἐξέπεσεν

In this clause the prophet Isaiah continues the comparison between the glory of humankind and flowers. Just like flowers die and fall to the ground, so does the beauty of mankind disappear. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this meaning by repeating the simile language from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “like the flower falls off the plant, so does everything that is glorious about humankind come to an end” (See: Simile)

1 Peter 1:25

τὸ δὲ ῥῆμα Κυρίου μένει εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα

This clause completes Peters quotation of Isaiah 40:6–8 that began in the previous verse. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: Quote Markings)

τὸ…ῥῆμα Κυρίου

Peter quotes Isaiah using word figuratively to describe all that God has spoken by using words. This general reference to God’s word would include what God had said about the Messiah. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the message that comes from the Lord” (See: Metonymy)

τοῦτο δέ ἐστιν τὸ ῥῆμα

Here Peter uses word in the same specific sense as in verse 23. It is not the general meaning of word used earlier in the verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could say the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “And this is the message about Jesus” (See: Metonymy)

τὸ ῥῆμα τὸ εὐαγγελισθὲν

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the word that we have proclaimed” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 2

1 Peter 2 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1. Command to love each other as a family (1:22–2:10)
2. How believers should act toward other people (2:11–3:12)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 2:6, 7, 8, and 22.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 2:10.

Special concepts in this chapter

Stones

The Bible uses a building made of large stones as a metaphor for the church. Jesus is the cornerstone, the most important stone. The apostles and prophets are the foundation, the part of the building on which all the other stones rest. In this chapter, Christians are the stones that make up the walls of the building. (See: Metaphor and cornerstone and found, founder, foundation)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Milk and babies

When Peter tells his readers to “long for pure spiritual milk,” he is using the metaphor of a baby craving his mother’s milk. Peter wants Christians to crave God’s word the same way a baby craves milk. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 2:1

Peter continues teaching his readers about holiness and obedience.

οὖν

The word Therefore here refers back to everything that Peter has said about being holy and obedient. (See: Connect — Reason-and-Result Relationship)

ἀποθέμενοι…πᾶσαν κακίαν, καὶ πάντα δόλον, καὶ ὑποκρίσεις, καὶ φθόνους, καὶ πάσας καταλαλιάς

These sinful actions are spoken of as if they were objects that people could throw away. Alternate translation: “get rid of everything that is evil, and hypocrisy, and envy, and all slander” or “stop being evil, or being deceptive, or being hypocritical, or envying, or slandering” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 2:2

ὡς ἀρτιγέννητα βρέφη τὸ λογικὸν ἄδολον γάλα ἐπιποθήσατε

Peter speaks of his readers as if they were babies. Babies requires very pure food, which they can digest easily. In the same way, believers need pure teaching from God’s word. Alternate translation: “Just as babies long for their mother’s breast milk, so you must yearn for pure spiritual milk” (See: Metaphor)

ἐπιποθήσατε

Alternate translation: “desire intensely” or “yearn for”

τὸ λογικὸν ἄδολον γάλα

Peter speaks of the word of God as if it were spiritual milk that nourished children. (See: Metaphor)

εἰς σωτηρίαν

Here the word salvation refers to when God brings the salvation of his people to completion when Jesus returns (see 1 Peter 1:5). Alternate translation: “until God saves you completely” (See: Abstract Nouns)

αὐξηθῆτε

Peter speaks of believers advancing in knowledge of God and faithfulness to him as if they were children growing up. (See: Metaphor)

αὐξηθῆτε εἰς σωτηρίαν

They were to increasingly act in ways that were consistent with this salvation. You can translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “you may grow up spiritually until God saves you completely” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

1 Peter 2:3

εἰ ἐγεύσασθε ὅτι χρηστὸς ὁ Κύριος

Here to taste means to experience something personally. Alternate translation: “if you have experienced the Lord’s kindness toward you” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 2:4

Peter begins to tell a metaphor about Jesus and the believers being living stones. (See: Metaphor)

πρὸς ὃν προσερχόμενοι λίθον ζῶντα

Peter speaks of Jesus as if he were a stone in a building. Alternate translation: “coming to him who is like a stone in a building, but alive, not a dead stone” (See: Metaphor)

ὃν…λίθον ζῶντα

This could mean: (1) This refers to a stone that is alive. (2) This refers to a stone that gives life.

ὑπὸ ἀνθρώπων μὲν ἀποδεδοκιμασμένον

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that people have rejected” (See: Active or Passive)

παρὰ δὲ Θεῷ ἐκλεκτὸν

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but that God has chosen” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 2:5

αὐτοὶ ὡς λίθοι ζῶντες οἰκοδομεῖσθε, οἶκος πνευματικὸς

Just as people used stones to build the temple in the Old Testament, believers are the materials that God is using to build a house in which he will live. (See: Metaphor)

αὐτοὶ ὡς λίθοι ζῶντες

Peter compares his readers to stones that are alive. (See: Simile)

λίθοι ζῶντες οἰκοδομεῖσθε, οἶκος πνευματικὸς

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “living stones that God is building into a spiritual house” (See: Active or Passive)

ἱεράτευμα ἅγιον ἀνενέγκαι πνευματικὰς θυσίας

Here the position of priesthood stands for the priests who fulfill its duties. (See: Metonymy)

1 Peter 2:6

περιέχει ἐν Γραφῇ

Scripture is spoken of as if it were a container. This passage refers to the words that a person reads in scripture. Alternate translation: “this is what a prophet wrote in the scriptures long ago” (See: Metaphor)

ἰδοὺ

The word behold here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

λίθον, ἀκρογωνιαῖον ἐκλεκτὸν ἔντιμον

God is the one who chose the stone. Alternate translation: “a most important cornerstone, which I have chosen” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

λίθον, ἀκρογωνιαῖον

The prophet speaks of the Messiah as the most important stone in a building. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 2:7

Peter continues quoting from the scriptures.

λίθος ὃν ἀπεδοκίμασαν…ἐγενήθη εἰς κεφαλὴν γωνίας

This is a metaphor that means people, like builders, rejected Jesus, but God has made him the most important stone in a building. (See: Metaphor)

λίθος ὃν ἀπεδοκίμασαν οἱ οἰκοδομοῦντες

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The stone that the builders rejected” (See: Active or Passive)

κεφαλὴν γωνίας

This refers to the most important stone in a building and means basically the same thing as “cornerstone” in 1 Peter 2:6.

1 Peter 2:8

λίθος προσκόμματος, καὶ πέτρα σκανδάλου

These two phrases share similar meanings. Together they emphasize that people will take offense at this “stone,” which refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: “a stone or a rock over which people will stumble” (See: Parallelism)

προσκόπτουσιν τῷ λόγῳ ἀπειθοῦντες

Here, the word refers to the gospel message. To disobey means that they do not believe. Alternate translation: “stumble because they are not believing the message about Jesus”

εἰς ὃ καὶ ἐτέθησαν

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for which God also appointed them” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 2:9

In verse 10 Peter quotes a verse from the prophet Hosea. Some modern versions do not format this as a quote, which is also acceptable.

γένος ἐκλεκτόν

You can clarify that God is the one who has chosen them. Alternate translation: “a people whom God has chosen” (See: Active or Passive)

βασίλειον ἱεράτευμα

This could mean: (1) This refers to a group of kings and a group of priests. (2) This refers to a group of priests who serve the king.

λαὸς εἰς περιποίησιν

Alternate translation: “a people who belong to God”

ἐκ…ὑμᾶς καλέσαντος

Alternate translation: “who called you to come out of”

ἐκ σκότους…εἰς τὸ θαυμαστὸν αὐτοῦ φῶς

Here, darkness refers to their condition as sinful people who did not know God, and light refers to their condition as people who do know God and practice righteousness. Alternate translation: “from a life of sin and ignorance of God to a life of knowing and pleasing him” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 2:11

Peter begins to talk about how to live Christian lives.

παροίκους καὶ παρεπιδήμους

These two words mean basically the same thing.(See: Doublet)

παροίκους καὶ παρεπιδήμους

Peter speaks of his readers as people who are living in foreign lands away from their home. See how you translated “foreigners” in 1 Peter 1:1. (See: Metaphor)

ἀπέχεσθαι τῶν σαρκικῶν ἐπιθυμιῶν

Here the idea of flesh refers to the sinful nature of humanity in this fallen world. Alternate translation: “to not to give in to sinful desires” (See: Metaphor)

τῆς ψυχῆς

Here the word soul refers to a person’s spiritual life. Alternate translation: “your spiritual life” (See: Metonymy)

στρατεύονται κατὰ τῆς ψυχῆς

Peter speaks of sinful desires as soldiers that are trying to destroy the spiritual life of believers. Alternate translation: “seek to destroy your spiritual life” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 2:12

τὴν ἀναστροφὴν ὑμῶν ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν ἔχοντες καλήν

The abstract noun behavior can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “you should behave well among the Gentiles” or “you should behave in a good way in the presence of the Gentiles” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἐν ᾧ καταλαλοῦσιν ὑμῶν ὡς

Alternate translation: “even if they accuse you of being”

ἐκ τῶν καλῶν ἔργων ἐποπτεύοντες

The abstract noun works can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “they may observe the good things that you do” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἐν ἡμέρᾳ ἐπισκοπῆς

Alternate translation: “on the day when he comes.” This refers to the day when God will judge all people. Alternate translation: “when he comes to judge everyone” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

1 Peter 2:13

διὰ τὸν Κύριον

This could mean: (1) By obeying human authorities, they are obeying the Lord who established those authorities. (2) By obeying human authorities, they will honor Jesus who also obeyed human authorities.

βασιλεῖ ὡς ὑπερέχοντι

Alternate translation: “to the king as the highest human authority”

1 Peter 2:14

δι’ αὐτοῦ πεμπομένοις

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom the king has sent” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 2:15

ἀγαθοποιοῦντας φιμοῦν τὴν τῶν ἀφρόνων ἀνθρώπων ἀγνωσίαν

Alternate translation: “by doing good you stop foolish people from speaking about things that they do not know”

1 Peter 2:16

ὡς ἐπικάλυμμα…τῆς κακίας

Peter speaks of their condition as free people as something that they should not use to hide sinful behavior. Alternate translation: “as an excuse to do wicked things” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 2:17

τὴν ἀδελφότητα

This refers to all Christian believers.

1 Peter 2:18

Peter begins to speak specifically to people who are servants in people’s houses.

τοῖς ἀγαθοῖς καὶ ἐπιεικέσιν

Here the words good and gentle share similar meanings and emphasize that such masters treat their servants kindly. Alternate translation: “the very kind masters” (See: Doublet)

τοῖς σκολιοῖς

Alternate translation: “to the cruel ones” or “to the mean ones”

1 Peter 2:19

τοῦτο…χάρις

Alternate translation: “this is deserving of praise” or “it is pleasing to God”

διὰ συνείδησιν Θεοῦ, ὑποφέρει…λύπας

This could mean: (1) This person accepts suffering because he knows he is obeying God. (2) This person is able to endure unjust punishment because he knows that God knows how he is suffering.

1 Peter 2:20

ποῖον γὰρ κλέος, εἰ ἁμαρτάνοντες καὶ κολαφιζόμενοι ὑπομενεῖτε?

Peter asks this question to emphasize that there is nothing praiseworthy about suffering for doing something wrong. Alternate translation: “For God will not reward you if you are punished because you sinned.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἁμαρτάνοντες καὶ κολαφιζόμενοι

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “while someone punishes you because you sinned” (See: Active or Passive)

ἀγαθοποιοῦντες καὶ πάσχοντες ὑπομενεῖτε

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you endure when someone punishes you for doing good” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 2:21

Peter continues speaking to people who are servants in people’s houses.

εἰς τοῦτο…ἐκλήθητε

Here the word this refers to believers enduring while suffering for doing good, as Peter has just described. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has called you to this” (See: Active or Passive)

ὑμῖν…ἵνα ἐπακολουθήσητε τοῖς ἴχνεσιν αὐτοῦ

Peter speaks of following Jesus’ example in the way that they suffer as if one were walking on the same path that Jesus had taken. Alternate translation: “so that you would imitate his behavior” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 2:22

οὐδὲ εὑρέθη δόλος ἐν τῷ στόματι αὐτοῦ

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “neither did anyone find deceit in his mouth” (See: Active or Passive)

οὐδὲ εὑρέθη δόλος ἐν τῷ στόματι αὐτοῦ

Here, deceit refers to words that a person speaks that are intended to deceive other people. Alternate translation: “neither did he speak any lies” (See: Metonymy)

1 Peter 2:23

ὃς λοιδορούμενος, οὐκ ἀντελοιδόρει

To revile someone is to speak abusively to another person. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When people insulted him, he did not insult them back” (See: Active or Passive)

παρεδίδου…τῷ κρίνοντι δικαίως

Alternate translation: “he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly.” This means that he trusted God to take away his shame, which had been put on him by those who treated him harshly.

1 Peter 2:24

Peter continues talking about Jesus Christ. He is still speaking to people who are servants.

ὃς…αὐτὸς

This refers to Jesus, with emphasis. (See: Reflexive Pronouns)

τὰς ἁμαρτίας ἡμῶν…ἀνήνεγκεν ἐν τῷ σώματι αὐτοῦ ἐπὶ τὸ ξύλον

Here, carried our sins means he suffered the punishment for our sins. Alternate translation: “suffered the punishment for our sins in his body on the tree” (See: Metonymy)

τὸ ξύλον

This is a reference to the cross on which Jesus died, which was made of wood. (See: Metonymy)

οὗ τῷ μώλωπι ἰάθητε

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has healed you because people bruised him” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 2:25

ἦτε…ὡς πρόβατα πλανώμενοι

Peter speaks about his readers before they believed in Christ as if they had been similar to lost sheep wandering around aimlessly. (See: Simile)

τὸν ποιμένα καὶ ἐπίσκοπον τῶν ψυχῶν ὑμῶν

Peter speaks of Jesus as if he were a shepherd. Just as a shepherd protects his sheep, Jesus protects those who trust in him. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 3

1 Peter 3 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1. How believers should act toward other people (2:11–3:12)
2. How believers should endure suffering (3:13–4:6)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 3:10-12.

Special concepts in this chapter

“Outward ornaments”

Most people want to look good so other people will like them and think they are good people. Women are especially careful to look good by wearing nice clothes and jewels. Peter is saying that what a woman thinks and says and does are more important to God than how she looks.

Unity

Peter wanted his readers to agree with each other. More importantly, he wanted them to love each other and be patient with each other.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

Peter quotes a psalm that describes God as if he were a person with eyes, ears, and a face. However, God is a spirit, so he does not have physical eyes or ears or a physical face. But he does know what people do, and he does act against wicked people. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 3:1

Peter begins to speak specifically to women who are wives.

ὁμοίως, γυναῖκες, ὑποτασσόμεναι τοῖς ἰδίοις ἀνδράσιν

Just as believers are to “obey every human authority” (1 Peter 2:13) and servants are to “be subject” to their masters (1 Peter 2:18), wives are to submit to their husbands. The words “obey,” “be subject,” and “submit” translate the same word.

τινες ἀπειθοῦσιν τῷ λόγῳ

Here, the word refers to the gospel message. To disobey means that they do not believe. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Peter 2:8. Alternate translation: “some men do not believe the message about Jesus” (See: Metonymy)

κερδηθήσονται

This means that the unbelieving husbands will become believers. Alternate translation: “they will be persuaded to believe in Christ” (See: Idiom)

κερδηθήσονται

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they will become believers” (See: Active or Passive)

ἄνευ λόγου

Alternate translation: “without the wife saying a word.” Here, a word refers to anything the wife might speak about Jesus. (See: Ellipsis)

1 Peter 3:2

ἐποπτεύσαντες τὴν ἐν φόβῳ ἁγνὴν ἀναστροφὴν ὑμῶν

The abstract noun behavior can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “having seen that you behave sincerely and respectfully” (See: Abstract Nouns)

τὴν ἐν φόβῳ ἁγνὴν ἀναστροφὴν ὑμῶν

This could mean: (1) This refers to their sincere behavior toward them and the way that they honor them. (2) This refers to their pure behavior toward them and the way that they honor God.

1 Peter 3:3

Peter continues speaking to women who are wives.

1 Peter 3:4

ὁ κρυπτὸς τῆς καρδίας ἄνθρωπος

Here the words inner man and heart refer to the person. (See: Metonymy)

ὁ κρυπτὸς τῆς καρδίας ἄνθρωπος

Here the words inner man and heart both refer to the inward character and personality of a person. Alternate translation: “what you really are on the inside” (See: Doublet)

τοῦ πραέως καὶ ἡσυχίου πνεύματος

Alternate translation: “of a gentle and peaceful attitude.” Here the word quiet means “peaceful” or “calm.” The word spirit refers to a person’s attitude or temperament.

ὅ ἐστιν ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ πολυτελές

Peter speaks of God’s opinion of a person as if that person were standing directly in front of him. Alternate translation: “which God considers to be precious” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 3:6

κύριον, αὐτὸν καλοῦσα

saying that he was her lord, that is, her master

ἧς ἐγενήθητε τέκνα

Peter says that believing women who act as Sarah acted can be thought of as if they were her actual children. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 3:7

Peter begins to speak specifically to men who are husbands.

ὁμοίως

This refers back to how Sarah and other godly women obeyed their husbands in 1 Peter 3:5 and 1 Peter 3:6.

συνοικοῦντες κατὰ γνῶσιν, ὡς ἀσθενεστέρῳ σκεύει τῷ γυναικείῳ

The abstract noun understanding can also be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “live with your wife, understanding that she is the weaker partner” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ὡς ἀσθενεστέρῳ σκεύει

Peter speaks of women as if they were containers, as men are sometimes also spoken of. Alternate translation: “knowing that she is not as strong as you are” (See: Metaphor)

ἀπονέμοντες τιμήν ὡς καὶ συνκληρονόμοις χάριτος ζωῆς

You can translate this using verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “honor her because she will also receive by grace the eternal life that God gives” (See: Abstract Nouns)

συνκληρονόμοις χάριτος ζωῆς

Eternal life is often spoken of as if it were something that people inherit. (See: Metaphor)

εἰς τὸ

Here this phrase introduces the result that will happen if husbands treat their wives well. Alternate translation: “Live with your wives in this way” (See: Connect — Reason-and-Result Relationship)

εἰς τὸ μὴ ἐνκόπτεσθαι τὰς προσευχὰς ὑμῶν

To “hinder” is to prevent something from happening. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that nothing will hinder your prayers” or “so that nothing will keep you from praying as you should” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 3:8

Peter begins to speak again to all of the believers.

ὁμόφρονες

Alternate translation: “have the same opinion and be” or “have the same attitude and be”

εὔσπλαγχνοι

being gentle and compassionate towards others

1 Peter 3:9

μὴ ἀποδιδόντες κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ, ἢ λοιδορίαν ἀντὶ λοιδορίας

Peter speaks of responding to the actions of another person as remitting payment for those actions. Alternate translation: “Do not do evil to someone who does evil to you or insult someone who insults you” (See: Metaphor)

εὐλογοῦντες

You can clarify the object of blessing. Alternate translation: “continue to bless those who do evil to you or insult you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εἰς τοῦτο ἐκλήθητε

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God called you for this” (See: Active or Passive)

ἵνα εὐλογίαν κληρονομήσητε

Peter speaks of receiving God’s blessing as receiving an inheritance. Alternate translation: “that you might receive God’s blessing as your permanent possession” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 3:10

In these verses Peter quotes from the Psalms. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ζωὴν ἀγαπᾶν, καὶ ἰδεῖν ἡμέρας ἀγαθὰς

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the desire to have a good life. (See: Parallelism)

ἰδεῖν ἡμέρας ἀγαθὰς

Here experiencing good things is spoken of as seeing good things. Alternate translation: “experience good things during life” (See: Metaphor)

ἡμέρας ἀγαθὰς

The word days refers to one’s lifetime. (See: Metonymy)

παυσάτω τὴν γλῶσσαν ἀπὸ κακοῦ, καὶ χείλη τοῦ μὴ λαλῆσαι δόλον

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the command not to lie. Alternate translation: “stop saying evil and deceitful things” (See: Parallelism)

τὴν γλῶσσαν…χείλη

The words tongue and lips refer to the person who is speaking. (See: Synecdoche)

1 Peter 3:11

ἐκκλινάτω…ἀπὸ κακοῦ

Here, turn away is a metaphor that means to stop doing something. Alternate translation: “let him stop doing what is bad” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 3:12

ὀφθαλμοὶ Κυρίου ἐπὶ δικαίους

The word eyes refers to the Lord’s ability to know things. Alternate translation: “The Lord knows the righteous” (See: Synecdoche)

ὀφθαλμοὶ Κυρίου ἐπὶ δικαίους

The Lord’s approval of the righteous is spoken of as his seeing them. Alternate translation: “The Lord approves of the righteous” (See: Metaphor)

ὦτα αὐτοῦ εἰς δέησιν αὐτῶν

The word “ears” refers to the Lord’s awareness of what people say. Alternate translation: “he hears their requests” (See: Synecdoche)

ὦτα αὐτοῦ εἰς δέησιν αὐτῶν

That the Lord hears their requests implies that he also responds to them. Alternate translation: “he grants their requests” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πρόσωπον δὲ Κυρίου ἐπὶ

Opposing someone is spoken of as setting one’s face against that person. Alternate translation: “the Lord opposes” (See: Metaphor)

πρόσωπον δὲ Κυρίου ἐπὶ

The word face refers to the Lord’s will to oppose his enemies. (See: Synecdoche)

1 Peter 3:13

Peter continues teaching the believers how to live Christian lives.

τίς ὁ κακώσων ὑμᾶς, ἐὰν τοῦ ἀγαθοῦ ζηλωταὶ γένησθε?

Peter asks this question to emphasize that it is unlikely that someone would harm them if they do good things. Alternate translation: “no one will harm you if you do good things.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

1 Peter 3:14

πάσχοιτε διὰ δικαιοσύνην

You can translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “you suffer because you do what is right” (See: Abstract Nouns)

μακάριοι

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will bless you” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸν δὲ φόβον αὐτῶν, μὴ φοβηθῆτε μηδὲ ταραχθῆτε

These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize that believers should not be afraid of those who persecute them. Alternate translation: “But do not be afraid of what people might do to you” (See: Parallelism)

τὸν…φόβον αὐτῶν

Here the word their refers to anyone who might try to harm those to whom Peter is writing.

1 Peter 3:15

δὲ…ἁγιάσατε

Alternate translation: “Instead of being troubled, set apart”

Κύριον…τὸν Χριστὸν ἁγιάσατε ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν

The phrase “sanctify the Lord Christ” is a metaphor for acknowledging Christ’s holiness. Alternate translation: “acknowledge in your hearts that the Lord Christ is holy” or “honor the Lord Christ as holy within yourselves” (See: Metaphor)

ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν

Here, hearts is a metonym for the “inner person.” Alternate translation: “within yourselves” (See: Metonymy)

1 Peter 3:18

Peter explains how Christ suffered and what Christ accomplished by suffering.

ἵνα ὑμᾶς προσαγάγῃ τῷ Θεῷ

Peter probably means here that Christ died in order to create a close relationship between us and God. (See: Metaphor)

θανατωθεὶς…σαρκὶ

Here, flesh refers to Christ’s body; Christ was physically put to death. Alternate translation: “having been killed physically” (See: Metaphor)

θανατωθεὶς…σαρκὶ

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “since people put Christ to death physically” (See: Active or Passive)

ζῳοποιηθεὶς…πνεύματι

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God made him alive spiritually” (See: Active or Passive)

πνεύματι

This could mean: (1) This refers to a spiritual existence. (2) This refers to the Holy Spirit’s power.

1 Peter 3:19

ἐν ᾧ

This could mean: (1) This refers to his spiritual existence. (2) This refers to the Holy Spirit’s power.

τοῖς ἐν φυλακῇ πνεύμασιν

Here, spirits could mean: (1) This refers to evil spirits. (2) This refers to spirits of the dead people.

1 Peter 3:20

ἀπεξεδέχετο ἡ τοῦ Θεοῦ

The word patience is a metonym for God himself. Alternate translation: “God himself” (See: Metonymy)

ὅτε ἀπεξεδέχετο ἡ τοῦ Θεοῦ μακροθυμία

Peter writes of God’s patience as if it is a person. Alternate translation: “when God was waiting patiently” (See: Personification)

ἐν ἡμέραις Νῶε, κατασκευαζομένης κιβωτοῦ

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “during the time of Noah, when he was building an ark” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 3:21

δι’ ἀναστάσεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ

Alternate translation: “because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” This phrase completes the thought, “This is a symbol of the baptism that saves you now”

1 Peter 3:22

ὅς ἐστιν ἐν δεξιᾷ Θεοῦ

To be at the right hand of God is a symbol that God has given Jesus greatest honor and authority over all others. Alternate translation: “who is beside God in the place of honor and authority” (See: Metonymy)

ὑποταγέντων αὐτῷ

Alternate translation: “when … had submitted to Jesus Christ”

1 Peter 4

1 Peter 4 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1. How believers should endure suffering (3:13–4:6)
2. The end is near (4:7–11)
3. How believers should respond to trials (4:12–19)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry that is quoted from the Old Testament in 4:18.

Special concepts in this chapter

Ungodly Gentiles

This passage uses the term “Gentiles” to refer to all ungodly people who are not Jews. It does not include Gentiles who have become Christians. “Sensuality, passion, drunkenness, carousings, wild parties, and disgusting acts of idolatry” were actions that characterized or typified the ungodly Gentiles. (See: godly, godliness, ungodly, godless, ungodliness, godlessness)

Martyrdom

It is apparent that Peter is speaking to many Christians who are experiencing great persecution and are facing death for their beliefs.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Let it” and “Let none” and “Let him” and “Let those”

Peter uses these phrases to tell his readers what he wants them to do. They are like commands because he wants his readers to obey. But it is as if he is telling one person what he wants other people to do.

1 Peter 4:1

Peter continues to teach the believers about Christian living. He begins by giving a conclusion to his thoughts from the previous chapter about Christ’s sufferings.

σαρκὶ

Alternate translation: “in his body”

ὑμεῖς τὴν αὐτὴν ἔννοιαν ὁπλίσασθε

The phrase arm yourselves makes readers think of soldiers who get their weapons ready for battle. It also pictures the same intention as a weapon or perhaps as a piece of armor. Here this metaphor means that believers should be determined in their mind to suffer as Jesus did. Alternate translation: “prepare yourselves with the same thoughts that Christ had” (See: Metaphor)

σαρκὶ

Here “flesh” means “body.” Alternate translation: “in his body” or “while here on earth”

πέπαυται ἁμαρτίας

Alternate translation: “has stopped sinning”

1 Peter 4:2

ἀνθρώπων ἐπιθυμίαις

for the things that sinful people normally desire

1 Peter 4:3

κώμοις, πότοις

These terms refer to activities in which people gather to drink alcohol excessively and behave in a shameful manner.

1 Peter 4:4

τῆς ἀσωτίας ἀνάχυσιν

These examples of wild, boundless sin are spoken of as if they were great floods of water that were being poured out.

τῆς ἀσωτίας

doing everything they can to satisfy the desires of their bodies

1 Peter 4:5

τῷ ἑτοίμως ἔχοντι κρῖναι

This could mean: (1) This refers to God, who is ready to judge. (2) This refers to Christ, who is ready to judge.

ζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς

This means all people, whether they are still alive or have died. Alternate translation: “every person” (See: Merism)

1 Peter 4:6

καὶ νεκροῖς εὐηγγελίσθη

This could mean: (1) The gospel was preached also to people who had already died. (2) The gospel was preached also to those who were alive but are now dead.

εὐηγγελίσθη

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (1) Christ preached. Alternate translation: “Christ preached the gospel” (2) Men preached. Alternate translation: “men preached the gospel” (See: Active or Passive)

κριθῶσι…κατὰ ἀνθρώπους σαρκὶ

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (1) God judged them in this life on earth. Alternate translation: “God judged them in their bodies as humans” (2) Men judged them according to human standards. Alternate translation: “men judged them in their bodies as humans” (See: Active or Passive)

κριθῶσι…κατὰ ἀνθρώπους σαρκὶ

This is a reference to death as the ultimate form of judgment. (See: Euphemism)

ζῶσι…κατὰ Θεὸν πνεύματι

This could mean: (1) They should live spiritually as God lives because the Holy Spirit will enable them to do so. (2) They should live according to God’s standards by the power of the Holy Spirit.

1 Peter 4:7

πάντων…τὸ τέλος

This refers to the end of the world at Christ’s second coming.

ἤγγικεν

The end that will happen soon is spoken of as if it has physically come closer in distance. Alternate translation: “will soon happen” (See: Metaphor)

σωφρονήσατε…καὶ νήψατε

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Peter uses them to emphasize the need to think clearly about life since the end of the world is near. (See: Parallelism)

νήψατε

Here the word sober refers to mental clarity and alertness. See how you translated this in 1 Peter 1:13. Alternate translation: “control your thoughts” or “be careful about what you think” (See: Idiom)

1 Peter 4:8

πρὸ πάντων

Alternate translation: “most importantly of all”

ὅτι ἀγάπη καλύψει πλῆθος ἁμαρτιῶν

Peter describes love as if it were a person. (See: Personification)

ἀγάπη καλύψει πλῆθος ἁμαρτιῶν

Peter speaks of love as a person who places a cover over the sins of others. This could mean: (1) A person who loves will not try to find out if another person has sinned. (2) A person who loves will forgive the sins of other people, even if those sins are many. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 4:9

φιλόξενοι

showing kindness to and welcoming guests and travelers

1 Peter 4:10

ἕκαστος καθὼς ἔλαβεν χάρισμα

This refers to special spiritual abilities that God gives to believers. Alternate translation: “Because each one of you has received a special spiritual ability as a gift from God” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

1 Peter 4:11

ἵνα ἐν πᾶσιν δοξάζηται ὁ Θεὸς

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that in all ways you will glorify God” (See: Active or Passive)

δοξάζηται

may be praised and honored

1 Peter 4:12

τῇ ἐν ὑμῖν πυρώσει πρὸς πειρασμὸν ὑμῖν γινομένῃ

In the same way that fire refines gold, trials test and refine a person’s faith. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 4:13

χαρῆτε ἀγαλλιώμενοι

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of joy. Alternate translation: “rejoice even more” or “be very glad” (See: Doublet)

ἐν τῇ ἀποκαλύψει τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ

Alternate translation: “when God reveals Christ’s glory”

1 Peter 4:14

εἰ ὀνειδίζεσθε ἐν ὀνόματι Χριστοῦ

Here the word name refers to Christ himself. (See: Metonymy)

εἰ ὀνειδίζεσθε ἐν ὀνόματι Χριστοῦ

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “If people insult you because you believe in Christ” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸ τῆς δόξης καὶ τὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ Πνεῦμα

Both of these refer to the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “the Spirit of glory, who is the Spirit of God” or “the glorious Spirit of God” (See: Parallelism)

ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς ἀναπαύεται

is staying with you

1 Peter 4:15

ἀλλοτριεπίσκοπος

This refers to a person who gets involved with the affairs of others without having a right to do so.

1 Peter 4:16

ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τούτῳ

Alternate translation: “because he bears the name Christian” or “because people have recognized him as a Christian.” The words this name refer to the word “Christian”

1 Peter 4:17

τοῦ οἴκου τοῦ Θεοῦ

This phrase refers to believers, whom Peter speaks of as God’s family. (See: Metaphor)

εἰ δὲ πρῶτον ἀφ’ ἡμῶν, τί τὸ τέλος τῶν ἀπειθούντων τῷ τοῦ Θεοῦ εὐαγγελίῳ?

Peter use this question to emphasize that God’s judgment will be more severe for people who reject the gospel than for believers. Alternate translation: “If it begins with us, the outcome for those who do not obey God’s gospel will be much worse.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τί τὸ τέλος τῶν ἀπειθούντων

Alternate translation: “what will happen to those who disobey”

τῶν ἀπειθούντων τῷ τοῦ Θεοῦ εὐαγγελίῳ

Alternate translation: “of those who do not believe God’s gospel.” Here the word disobeying means they do not believe.

1 Peter 4:18

εἰ ὁ δίκαιος μόλις σῴζεται

Here the word saved refers to final salvation when Christ returns. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “If the righteous person experiences many difficulties before God saves him” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ δίκαιος…ὁ ἀσεβὴς καὶ ἁμαρτωλὸς ποῦ φανεῖται?

Peter use this question to emphasize that sinners will suffer much more than believers do. Alternate translation: “the righteous man … the outcome will be much worse for the ungodly and the sinner.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὁ ἀσεβὴς καὶ ἁμαρτωλὸς ποῦ φανεῖται

Alternate translation: “what will happen to the ungodly and the sinner”

ὁ ἀσεβὴς καὶ ἁμαρτωλὸς

The words ungodly and sinner mean basically the same thing and emphasize the wickedness of these people. Alternate translation: “ungodly sinners” (See: Doublet)

1 Peter 4:19

παρατιθέσθωσαν τὰς ψυχὰς αὐτῶν

Here the word souls refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “let … entrust themselves” or “let … entrust their lives” (See: Synecdoche)

ἐν ἀγαθοποιΐᾳ

The abstract noun well-doing can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “while they do good” or “while they live rightly” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 5

1 Peter 5 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1. Instructions for relationships among believers (5:1–11)
2. Conclusion (5:12–14)

Most people in the ancient Near East would end a letter the way Peter ends this one.

Special concepts in this chapter

Crowns

The crown that the Chief Shepherd will give is a reward, something that people who do something especially good receive. (See: reward, prize, deserve)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Lion

All animals are afraid of lions because they are fast and strong, and they eat almost every other kind of animal. They also eat people. Satan wants to make God’s people afraid, so Peter uses the simile of a lion to teach his readers that Satan can harm their bodies, but if they trust in God and obey him, they will always be God’s people, and God will care for them. (See: Simile)

Babylon

Babylon was the evil nation that in Old Testament times had destroyed Jerusalem, taken the Jews away from their homes, and ruled over them. Peter uses Babylon as a metaphor for the nation that was persecuting the Christians he was writing to. He could have been referring to Jerusalem because the Jews were persecuting the Christians. Or he could have been referring to Rome because the Romans were persecuting the Christians. (See: evil, wicked, unpleasant and Metaphor)

1 Peter 5:1

Peter speaks specifically to men who are elders.

τῆς μελλούσης ἀποκαλύπτεσθαι δόξης

This is a reference to Christ’s second coming. (See: Metonymy)

τῆς μελλούσης ἀποκαλύπτεσθαι δόξης

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “of the glory of Christ that God will soon reveal” (See: Active or Passive)

1 Peter 5:2

ποιμάνατε τὸ…ποίμνιον τοῦ Θεοῦ

Peter speaks of the believers as a flock of sheep and the elders as the shepherds who care for them. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 5:3

μηδ’ ὡς κατακυριεύοντες τῶν κλήρων, ἀλλὰ τύποι γινόμενοι

Elders are to lead by example and not act toward the people as a harsh master would toward his servants. (See: Metaphor)

τῶν κλήρων

You can translate this using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “those whom God has placed in your care” (See: Abstract Nouns)

1 Peter 5:4

φανερωθέντος τοῦ ἀρχιποίμενος

Peter speaks of Jesus as if he were a shepherd who had authority over all other shepherds. (See: Metaphor)

φανερωθέντος τοῦ ἀρχιποίμενος

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, appears” or “when God reveals Jesus, the Chief Shepherd” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸν ἀμαράντινον τῆς δόξης στέφανον

Here the word crown represents the reward that someone receives as a symbol of victory. The word unfading means that it is eternal. Alternate translation: “a glorious prize that will last forever” (See: Metaphor)

τῆς δόξης στέφανον

glorious crown

1 Peter 5:5

Peter gives an instruction specifically to younger men and then continues to instruct all of the believers.

ὁμοίως

This refers back to the way the elders were to submit to the Chief Shepherd as Peter described in 1 Peter 5:1 through 1 Peter 5:4.

πάντες

This refers to all believers, not just the younger men.

τὴν ταπεινοφροσύνην ἐγκομβώσασθε

Peter speaks of having the moral quality of humility as putting on a piece of clothing. Alternate translation: “act humbly toward each other” or “act with humility” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 5:6

ὑπὸ τὴν κραταιὰν χεῖρα τοῦ Θεοῦ

Here the word hand refers to God’s power to save the humble and punish the proud. Alternate translation: “under God’s great power” or “before God, realizing that he has great power,” (See: Metonymy)

1 Peter 5:7

πᾶσαν τὴν μέριμναν ὑμῶν ἐπιρίψαντες ἐπ’ αὐτόν

Peter speaks of anxiety as if it were a heavy burden that a person places on God, rather than carrying it himself. Alternate translation: “trusting him with everything that worries you” or “letting him take care of all the things that trouble you” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 5:8

νήψατε

Here the word sober refers to mental clarity and alertness. See how you translated this in 1 Peter 1:13. Alternate translation: “Control your thoughts” or “Be careful about what you think” (See: Idiom)

διάβολος, ὡς λέων ὠρυόμενος περιπατεῖ, ζητῶν τινα καταπιεῖν

Peter compares the devil to a roaring lion. Just as a hungry lion completely devours its prey, the devil is seeking to completely destroy the faith of believers. (See: Simile)

περιπατεῖ

Alternate translation: “walking about” or “walking about and hunting”

1 Peter 5:9

ὑμῶν ἀδελφότητι

Alternate translation: “your fellow believers”

ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ

Alternate translation: “in various places throughout the world”

1 Peter 5:10

This is the end of Peter’s letter. Here he gives his final remarks about his letter and his closing greetings.

ὀλίγον

Alternate translation: “for a short time”

ὁ…Θεὸς πάσης χάριτος

Here the word grace may refer either to the things that God gives or to God’s character. This could mean: (1) This refers to the God who always gives us what we need. (2) This refers to the God who is always gracious.

ὁ καλέσας ὑμᾶς εἰς τὴν αἰώνιον αὐτοῦ δόξαν ἐν Χριστῷ

Alternate translation: “who has chose you to share his eternal glory in heaven because you are joined to Christ”

καταρτίσει

Alternate translation: “make perfect” or “restore” or “make well again”

σθενώσει, θεμελιώσει

These two expressions have similar meanings, that is, that God will enable the believers to trust in him and to obey him regardless of any suffering they may experience. (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 5:12

διὰ Σιλουανοῦ, ὑμῖν…δι’ ὀλίγων ἔγραψα

Silvanus wrote the words that Peter told him to write in the letter.

ταύτην εἶναι ἀληθῆ χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ

This refers back to what Paul has written. Here the word grace refers to the gospel message, which tells of the kind things that God has done for believers. Alternate translation: “I have written about the true grace of God” or “the gospel message I have written is God’s grace to you” (See: Metonymy)

εἰς ἣν στῆτε

The word it refers to “the true grace of God.” Being strongly committed to this grace is spoken of as standing firmly in one place, refusing to move. Alternate translation: “Remain strongly committed to it” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 5:13

ἡ ἐν Βαβυλῶνι

Here, she probably refers to the group of believers who live in Babylon. Here, Babylon could mean: (1) This is a symbol for the city of Rome. (2) This is a symbol for anywhere that Christians are suffering. (3) This is a literal reference to the city of Babylon. It most likely refers to the city of Rome. (See: Symbolic Language)

συνεκλεκτὴ

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom God has chosen as he has chosen you” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ υἱός μου

Peter speaks of Mark as if he is his spiritual son. Alternate translation: “my spiritual son” or “who is like a son to me” (See: Metaphor)

1 Peter 5:14

φιλήματι ἀγάπης

Alternate translation: “a loving kiss” or “a kiss to show your love for each other”