1 Peter 3:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Peter 3:6
6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
Chapter Context
1 Peter 3 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, grace, redemption. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 3:6
6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
Analysis
Peter cites Sarah as exemplary holy woman. "Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord" (hōs Sarra hypēkousen tō Abraam, kyrion auton kalousa)—referencing Genesis 18:12 where Sarah, speaking of Abraham, used term of respect. "Obeyed" (hypēkousen) indicates submission to Abraham's leadership. "Calling him lord" showed respect, honor. Peter applies this: "whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well" (hēs egenēthēte tekna agathopoiousai)—Christian women are Sarah's spiritual daughters when they follow her example of godly conduct. The encouragement: "and are not afraid with any amazement" (kai mē phoboumenai mēdemian ptoēsin)—don't give way to fear or intimidation. Trusting God produces courage, not anxiety.
Historical Context
Sarah, despite imperfections (laughing at God's promise, Hagar situation), demonstrated faith and appropriate submission to Abraham. Peter doesn't endorse her failures but highlights her virtues. The phrase 'calling him lord' shocked modern readers but reflected ancient respectful address (like 'sir'). Peter's point: godly women trust God, respect husbands, and live courageously without fear. Early church taught that spiritual daughterhood of Sarah comes through faith and godly conduct, not mere ethnicity. The 'fear not' element is crucial—godly submission isn't cowardice but courageous faith.
Reflection
- How does being Sarah's 'daughter' through faith and godly conduct (not mere ethnicity) shape your identity?
- What does it mean to live without 'fear' while trusting God in difficult circumstances?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Genesis 18:12
- Parallel theme: Genesis 18:15, Isaiah 57:11, Acts 4:19