1 Peter 3:1-6 Commentary
Wives, Submit to Your Husbands
In 1 Peter 3:1-6, the apostle Peter addresses wives, urging them to submit to their husbands, even if their husbands do not obey the word. This passage has been the subject of much controversy and debate, with some interpreting it as promoting patriarchal oppression. However, a closer examination of the text reveals a more nuanced message.
The Context
The preceding verses (2:13-25) discuss the Christian's relationship with the government and slaves' relationships with their masters. Peter emphasizes the importance of submitting to authority, even if it's unjust. In this context, he turns his attention to the relationships between wives and husbands.
The Command (v. 1)
Peter writes, "Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives" (NASB). The word "likewise" () indicates that the principle of submission to authority, established in the previous verses, applies to wives in their relationships with their husbands.
The Reason (v. 1b)
The motivation for submission is twofold:
- Evangelistic purpose: Peter hopes that by submitting to their husbands, wives may win them over to Christ without needing to preach to them. This is not about forced conversion but rather about demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel through a wife's behavior.
- Witness through conduct: A wife's submission is not only about obedience but also about demonstrating Christ-like character. By living out their faith in the midst of difficult circumstances, wives can silently witness to their husbands.
The Characteristics of a Christian Wife (vv. 2-4)
Peter highlights three characteristics of a Christian wife:
- Chaste and reverent behavior: A wife's behavior should be pure and respectful, reflecting her commitment to Christ.
- Hidden person of the heart: Peter emphasizes the importance of inner beauty, which is not just about physical appearance but about a wife's spiritual character.
- Gentle and quiet spirit: A Christian wife should exhibit a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great value in God's sight.
The Example of Holy Women (v. 5)
Peter reminds wives that they are part of a long line of holy women who trusted in God, citing the example of Sarah, who called her husband Abraham "lord." This demonstrates that submission is not about inferiority but about respecting one's husband as a fellow believer.
The Promise (v. 6)
Peter concludes by stating that wives who follow these principles will be daughters of Sarah, inheriting the promise of salvation and the blessings of God.
Conclusion
In 1 Peter 3:1-6, the apostle Peter urges wives to submit to their husbands, not because they are inferior, but because they are called to reflect Christ-like character in their relationships. By doing so, they may win their husbands to Christ and inherit the promise of salvation. This passage is not about promoting patriarchal oppression but about promoting a biblical understanding of submission as a witness to the Gospel.
