1 Peter 3:12-17: Living a Life that Pleases God
The Eyes of the Lord are Upon the Righteous
In 1 Peter 3:12-17, the apostle Peter continues to encourage believers to live a life that pleases God, even in the midst of suffering and persecution. In this passage, Peter emphasizes the importance of living a righteous life, trusting in God's sovereignty, and doing good to others.
Living a Life that Pleases God (v. 12-13)
"For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil." (v. 12)
Peter reminds believers that God's eyes are upon them, watching over them and attentive to their prayers. However, God's face is against those who do evil. This emphasizes the importance of living a life that pleases God, doing good and avoiding evil.
Doing Good to Others (v. 13-14)
"Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. 'Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.'" (v. 13-14)
Peter encourages believers to do good to others, even if it means suffering for what is right. He reminds them that they are blessed if they suffer for doing good, and that they should not fear the threats of others.
Suffering for Doing Good (v. 15-16)
"But in your hearts, set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you will be put to shame." (v. 15-16)
Peter reminds believers to set apart Christ as Lord in their hearts, always being prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks about their hope. He encourages them to do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander them will be put to shame.
Concluding Thoughts (v. 17)
"For it is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil." (v. 17)
In conclusion, Peter reminds believers that it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil, if it is God's will. This passage encourages believers to live a life that pleases God, trusting in His sovereignty and doing good to others, even in the midst of suffering and persecution.
Application
- Live a life that pleases God, doing good and avoiding evil.
- Trust in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of suffering and persecution.
- Do good to others, even if it means suffering for what is right.
- Set apart Christ as Lord in your heart, always being prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks about your hope.
