1 Peter 3:17
For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
Original Language Analysis
κρεῖττον
it is better
G2909
κρεῖττον
it is better
Strong's:
G2909
Word #:
1 of 12
stronger, i.e., (figuratively) better, i.e., nobler
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἀγαθοποιοῦντας
for well doing
G15
ἀγαθοποιοῦντας
for well doing
Strong's:
G15
Word #:
3 of 12
to be a well-doer (as a favor or a duty)
θέλει
be so
G2309
θέλει
be so
Strong's:
G2309
Word #:
5 of 12
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θέλημα
the will
G2307
θέλημα
the will
Strong's:
G2307
Word #:
7 of 12
a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεοῦ
of God
G2316
θεοῦ
of God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
9 of 12
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
Cross References
1 Peter 3:14But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;Matthew 26:39And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.1 Peter 4:19Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.Acts 21:14And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.1 Peter 2:20For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
Historical Context
Peter distinguishes between redemptive suffering (for righteousness) and consequential suffering (for sin). This helped believers evaluate persecution—was it for Christ or their own failures? True persecution brings blessing (3:14); deserved punishment brings no credit (2:20). Early church martyrs carefully distinguished: dying for refusing emperor worship brought glory; dying for actual crimes brought no honor. This sobered Christians to maintain moral integrity—making persecution about Christ, not personal failures. Modern application: Christians should ensure suffering stems from gospel faithfulness, not foolishness or sin.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you ensure suffering you experience stems from godly living rather than your own sin or foolishness?
- What does 'if the will of God be so' teach about God's sovereignty over who suffers and who doesn't?
Analysis & Commentary
Peter weighs different types of suffering. "For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing" (kreitton gar agathopoiountas, ei theloi to thelēma tou theou, paschein ē kakopoiountas). The conditional "if the will of God be so" (ei theloi to thelēma tou theou) acknowledges God's sovereignty—He permits some believers to suffer, others to be spared. When suffering comes, better to suffer for righteousness than sin. Suffering for good has purpose and reward; suffering for evil brings shame and judgment. This provides perspective: not all suffering is equal morally or eschatologically.