1 Peter 3:18

Authorized King James Version

For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὅτι

G3754

For

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

ἅπαξ

G530

hath once

one (or a single) time (numerically or conclusively)

περὶ

G4012

for

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

ἁμαρτιῶν

G266

sins

a sin (properly abstract)

ἔπαθεν

G3958

suffered

to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful)

δίκαιος

G1342

the just

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

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

ἀδίκων

G94

the unjust

unjust; by extension wicked; by implication, treacherous; specially, heathen

#11

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

#12

ἡμᾶς

G2248

#13

προσαγάγῃ

G4317

he might bring

to lead towards, i.e., (transitively) to conduct near (summon, present), or (intransitively) to approach

#14

τῷ

G3588

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

#15

θεῷ

G2316

to God

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

#16

θανατωθεὶς

G2289

being put to death

to kill

#17

μὲν

G3303

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

#18

σαρκὶ

G4561

in the flesh

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

#19

ζῳοποιηθεὶς

G2227

quickened

to (re-)vitalize (literally or figuratively)

#20

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#21

τῷ

G3588

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

#22

πνεύματι·

G4151

by the Spirit

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Peter, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Peter.

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 divine sovereignty. 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 might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Hope