1 Peter 2:11
Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
Original Language Analysis
παρακαλῶ
I beseech
G3870
παρακαλῶ
I beseech
Strong's:
G3870
Word #:
2 of 15
to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)
ὡς
you as
G5613
ὡς
you as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
3 of 15
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
παροίκους
strangers
G3941
παροίκους
strangers
Strong's:
G3941
Word #:
4 of 15
having a home near, i.e., (as noun) a by-dweller (alien resident)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
παρεπιδήμους
pilgrims
G3927
παρεπιδήμους
pilgrims
Strong's:
G3927
Word #:
6 of 15
an alien alongside, i.e., a resident foreigner
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σαρκικῶν
fleshly
G4559
σαρκικῶν
fleshly
Strong's:
G4559
Word #:
9 of 15
pertaining to flesh, i.e., (by extension) bodily, temporal, or (by implication) animal, unregenerate
αἵτινες
which
G3748
αἵτινες
which
Strong's:
G3748
Word #:
11 of 15
which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same
στρατεύονται
war
G4754
στρατεύονται
war
Strong's:
G4754
Word #:
12 of 15
to serve in a military campaign; figuratively, to execute the apostolate (with its arduous duties and functions), to contend with carnal inclinations
κατὰ
against
G2596
κατὰ
against
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
13 of 15
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
Cross References
Galatians 5:24And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.1 Peter 4:2That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.Hebrews 11:13These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.Romans 8:13For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.James 4:1From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?1 Chronicles 29:15For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding.2 Corinthians 7:1Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.2 Timothy 2:22Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.Romans 12:1I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.Ephesians 4:1I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
Historical Context
In pagan Roman culture, sensuality and self-indulgence were celebrated, not condemned. Mystery religions promoted sexual rituals; philosophical Epicureanism encouraged pleasure-seeking. Peter calls Christians to radical counter-cultural holiness. The warfare metaphor indicates Christian life is spiritual battle requiring vigilance and self-discipline. Early church's moral purity distinguished it from pagan debauchery, attracting those disillusioned with empty pleasures.
Questions for Reflection
- What specific 'fleshly lusts' are currently waging war against your soul, and what strategies help you resist?
- How does remembering you're a pilgrim (not permanent resident) affect your relationship with worldly desires?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Peter issues urgent appeal based on believers' identity. "Dearly beloved" (agapētoi) expresses pastoral affection. "I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims" (parakalō hōs paroikous kai parepidēmous) recalls their status (1:1)—temporary residents journeying to permanent home. The command: "abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul" (apechesthai tōn sarkikōn epithymiōn, haitines strateuontai kata tēs psychēs). "Fleshly lusts" are desires originating from fallen nature. "War" (strateuontai) employs military imagery—constant battle waged against spiritual wellbeing. Believers must actively resist, not negotiate peace.