1 Peter 2:15

Authorized King James Version

For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅτι
For
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#2
οὕτως
so
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#3
ἐστὶν
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#4
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
θέλημα
the will
a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination
#6
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#8
ἀγαθοποιοῦντας
G15
that with well doing
to be a well-doer (as a favor or a duty)
#9
φιμοῦν
ye may put to silence
to muzzle
#10
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἀφρόνων
of foolish
properly, mindless, i.e., stupid, (by implication) ignorant, (specially) egotistic, (practically) rash, or (morally) unbelieving
#13
ἀνθρώπων
men
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#14
ἀγνωσίαν
G56
the ignorance
ignorance (properly, the state)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Peter Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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