1 Peter 2:20

Authorized King James Version

For 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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ποῖον

G4169

what

individualizing interrogative (of character) what sort of, or (of number) which one

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

κλέος

G2811

glory

renown (as if being called)

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

ἁμαρτάνοντες

G264

for your faults

properly, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), i.e., (figuratively) to err, especially (morally) to sin

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

κολαφιζόμενοι

G2852

ye be buffeted

to rap with the fist

ὑπομενεῖτε

G5278

for it ye take it patiently

to stay under (behind), i.e., remain; figuratively, to undergo, i.e., bear (trials), have fortitude, persevere

ἀλλ'

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#10

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

#11

ἀγαθοποιοῦντες

G15

when ye do well

to be a well-doer (as a favor or a duty)

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#13

πάσχοντες

G3958

suffer

to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful)

#14

ὑπομενεῖτε

G5278

for it ye take it patiently

to stay under (behind), i.e., remain; figuratively, to undergo, i.e., bear (trials), have fortitude, persevere

#15

τοῦτο

G5124

this

that thing

#16

χάρις

G5485

is acceptable

graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart

#17

παρὰ

G3844

with

properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj

#18

θεῷ

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

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 glory 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood glory. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding glory in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

Related Resources

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Topics

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