1 Peter 3:11

Authorized King James Version

Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἐκκλινάτω

G1578

Let him eschew

to deviate, i.e., (absolutely) to shun (literally or figuratively), or (relatively) to decline (from piety)

ἀπὸ

G575

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

κακοῦ

G2556

evil

worthless (intrinsically, such; whereas g4190 properly refers to effects), i.e., (subjectively) depraved, or (objectively) injurious

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ποιησάτω

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

ἀγαθόν

G18

good

"good" (in any sense, often as noun)

ζητησάτω

G2212

let him seek

to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)

εἰρήνην

G1515

peace

peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#10

διωξάτω

G1377

ensue

compare the base of g1169 and g1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute

#11

αὐτήν·

G846

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

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 peace 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 peace. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Peter chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on peace address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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Topics

Hope