1 Peter 1:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Peter 1:21
21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
Chapter Context
1 Peter 1 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, mercy, worship. Written during during Nero's persecution (c. 62-64 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians throughout Asia Minor faced growing social hostility and potential persecution.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Peter and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Peter 1:21
21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
Analysis
Peter describes believers' new relationship to God through Christ. "Who by him do believe in God" (tous di' autou pistous eis theon)—Christ is the means/mediator through whom believers access faith in God. No one comes to the Father except through Christ (John 14:6). The dual description of God follows: He "raised him up from the dead" (ton egeiranta auton ek nekrōn)—God the Father resurrected Christ, vindicating His claims and accomplishing salvation. He "gave him glory" (kai doxan autō donta)—exalted Christ to supreme position (Philippians 2:9-11). The purpose clause: "that your faith and hope might be in God" (hōste tēn pistin hymōn kai elpida einai eis theon)—resurrection and exaltation provide objective foundation for believers' subjective faith and hope.
Historical Context
For first-century believers facing persecution and martyrdom, Christ's resurrection and glorification provided hope that their own suffering would end in vindication and glory. Jewish readers familiar with messianic expectations found confirmation that Jesus fulfilled prophecies. Gentile converts learned that Christianity wasn't myth (like pagan religions) but historical reality—Christ genuinely died and rose. Early creedal formulas emphasized resurrection (Romans 10:9, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4), making it Christianity's cornerstone truth.
Reflection
- How does Christ's resurrection provide objective foundation for your faith rather than mere subjective feelings?
- In what ways does knowing God exalted Christ encourage your hope during present trials?
Word Studies
- Believe: πιστεύω (Pisteuo) G4100 - To believe, trust, have faith
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Acts 2:24
- Faith: John 12:44, Ephesians 1:15
- References God: 1 Peter 3:22, Hebrews 7:25
- Glory: Hebrews 2:9