1 Peter 3:13

Authorized King James Version

And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?

Word-by-Word Analysis

Καὶ

G2532

And

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

τίς

G5101

who

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

ὁ

G3588

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

κακώσων

G2559

is he that will harm

to injure; figuratively, to exasperate

ὑμᾶς

G5209

you

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

ἐὰν

G1437

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

τοῦ

G3588

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

ἀγαθοῦ

G18

of that which is good

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

μιμηταὶ

G3402

followers

an imitator

#10

γένησθε

G1096

ye be

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?

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Topics

Hope