1 Peter 2:14
Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
Original Language Analysis
ἡγεμόσιν
unto governors
G2232
ἡγεμόσιν
unto governors
Strong's:
G2232
Word #:
2 of 13
a leader, i.e., chief person (or figuratively, place) of a province
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
3 of 13
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
δι'
by
G1223
δι'
by
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
4 of 13
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
αὐτοῦ
him
G846
αὐτοῦ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 13
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
πεμπομένοις
unto them that are sent
G3992
πεμπομένοις
unto them that are sent
Strong's:
G3992
Word #:
6 of 13
to dispatch (from the subjective view or point of departure, whereas ???? (as a stronger form of ????) refers rather to the objective point or <i>term
εἰς
for
G1519
εἰς
for
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
7 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
μὲν
G3303
μὲν
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
9 of 13
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
Historical Context
Roman government, despite Nero's increasing tyranny, still maintained basic law and order. Paul similarly taught government's divine origin (Romans 13:1-4). Christians weren't anarchists but model citizens, submitting to legitimate authority while refusing to compromise faith (Acts 5:29). Early church distinguished between lawful submission and unlawful worship of emperor as deity.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you respect governing authorities even when you disagree with their policies or character?
- What's the difference between civil submission and spiritual compromise regarding ungodly laws?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Peter explains governors' divinely ordained role. They are sent "for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well" (eis ekdikēsin kakopoiōn epainon de agathopoiōn). Government maintains order by punishing criminals and commending virtue. This demonstrates God's common grace—using even pagan rulers to restrain evil and promote good. Believers should respect this divine ordering.