1 Peter Chapter 2 · Verse 19
For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
χάρις
is thankworthy
G5485
χάρις
is thankworthy
Strong's:
G5485
Word #:
3 of 12
graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart
διὰ
for
G1223
διὰ
for
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
5 of 12
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
θεοῦ
toward God
G2316
θεοῦ
toward God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
7 of 12
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
ὑποφέρει
endure
G5297
ὑποφέρει
endure
Strong's:
G5297
Word #:
8 of 12
to bear from underneath, i.e., (figuratively) to undergo hardship
Cross References
1 Corinthians 15:10But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.Luke 6:32For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them.1 Peter 2:20For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.Romans 13:5Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.Psalms 119:86All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.John 15:21But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.2 Corinthians 8:1Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;2 Corinthians 1:12For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
Historical Context
Slaves often suffered unjustly—punished for circumstances beyond control, abused arbitrarily, denied basic human dignity. Peter doesn't justify this evil but provides theological framework for enduring it Christianly. Suffering unjustly while maintaining faith demonstrates supernatural grace, points to Christ's example, and brings divine commendation. This radically challenged both pagan resignation to fate and Jewish expectations of earthly justice. Early church's patient endurance under persecution mystified observers and attracted converts who saw inexplicable joy amid suffering.
Questions for Reflection
- How does 'conscience toward God' (awareness of His presence) enable you to endure unfair treatment without bitterness?
- Why does God find favor in those who suffer unjustly yet maintain godly character?
Analysis & Commentary
Peter explains why serving unjust masters pleases God. "For this is thankworthy" (touto gar charis)—literally "this is grace" or "this finds favor." The situation: "if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully" (ei dia syneidēsin theou hypopherei tis lypas, paschōn adikōs). "Conscience toward God" (syneidēsin theou) means awareness of God's presence and desire to please Him. "Endure" (hypopherei) means bear up under weight. "Grief" (lypas) indicates sorrow, pain. "Wrongfully" (adikōs) emphasizes injustice—undeserved suffering. God finds favor when believers endure unjust suffering while maintaining godly conduct because of God-consciousness, not self-interest.