1 Peter 2:21

Authorized King James Version

For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἰς

G1519

even

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τοῦτο

G5124

hereunto

that thing

γὰρ

G1063

For

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

ἐκλήθητε

G2564

were ye called

to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)

ὅτι

G3754

because

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

καὶ

G2532

also

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

Χριστὸς

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

ἔπαθεν

G3958

suffered

to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful)

ὑπὲρ

G5228

for

"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super

#10

ἡμῶν

G2257

of (or from) us

#11

ἡμῖν

G2254

to (or for, with, by) us

#12

ὑπολιμπάνων

G5277

leaving

to leave behind, i.e., bequeath

#13

ὑπογραμμὸν

G5261

an example

an underwriting, i.e., copy for imitation (figuratively)

#14

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

#15

ἐπακολουθήσητε

G1872

ye should follow

to accompany

#16

τοῖς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#17

ἴχνεσιν

G2487

steps

a track (figuratively)

#18

αὐτοῦ

G846

his

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Peter. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Peter chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Hope