1 Peter 3:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Peter 3:13
13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?
Chapter Context
1 Peter 3 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, hope, fellowship. 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 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 3:13
13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?
Analysis
Peter asks rhetorical question about suffering for righteousness. "And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?" (kai tis ho kakōsōn hymas ean tou agathou zēlōtai genēsthe). "Followers" (zēlōtai) means zealous imitators, enthusiastic pursuers. The logic: generally speaking, those zealously doing good encounter less opposition than evildoers. Most people respect virtue even if they don't practice it. However, verse 14 acknowledges exceptions—sometimes righteous suffer. The point: zealous goodness normally provides some protection, though not absolute immunity from suffering.
Historical Context
Peter's question reflects general principle: societies usually reward virtue or at least tolerate it, making righteous less likely targets than criminals. However, this isn't absolute—Christians faced persecution precisely for righteousness. Peter balances realism (some suffer for righteousness, v.14) with encouragement (righteous living normally brings protection). Early church observed this dynamic: many Christians lived peaceably, respected by neighbors; others suffered violently. The difference often depended on local authorities' attitudes and accusations' credibility. Christian virtue sometimes won respect and protection, other times provoked persecution.
Reflection
- How does zealous pursuit of good generally provide protection while not guaranteeing immunity from suffering?
- When have you observed that godly character earned respect even from those who don't share your faith?
Cross-References
- Good: Psalms 38:20, Romans 8:28, 13:3, 1 Thessalonians 5:15, 1 Timothy 5:10, 3 John 1:11
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 15:9, 16:7, 1 Corinthians 14:1, Ephesians 5:1