Explore The New TestamentSample

SAY WHAT? (What is the passage saying?)

• At first glance, the opening section on wives and husbands may look like an antiquated view of marriage relationships. But it's important to consider how it would be viewed by people who lived during the time 1 Peter was written.
• Women were not considered equal to men. Men decided the religion of the household. If a woman became a Christian without her husband's consent, it would have been scandalous. This is why Peter states that if a woman becomes a believer, she should continue to live graciously with her husband, so she can be a good example of Jesus to him. A husband could make her life miserable if he wanted, which is why Peter says to submit. Submission was a way a to show God's love and grace.
• Peter reminds women that beauty is not skin deep. A woman's heart and character matter more than outward appearance.
• In verse 7, Peter speaks strongly to husbands. He encourages them to be considerate and loving to their wives. The expectation is that husbands will treat their wives with selfless love. 
• In verse 7, Peter is also explaining to men that women have equal "spiritual rights." Remember in ancient times women were expected to follow the religion of the husband. Women were considered second class citizens in Jesus' time. As a result,  they were not allowed to share in worship practices of the Romans or the Greeks. Even in the Jewish synagogue, women were segregated and hidden behind a screen. Jesus revolutionized women's roles by stating that they could go to God on their own, without a man. 
• The second section of chapter 3 is reminiscent of the preceding 2 chapters. Peter is continually reminding us that we are to live in harmony with one another, even if we are being treated badly. This is a constant theme throughout the entire book. He encourages compassion and humility, whether it is in a marriage, a work relationship, or one's view of government.
• In verses 18-22, Peter explains why Jesus had to die (to bring you to God), and the importance of baptism in our response to God's offer to save us. He mentions Jesus going to the "imprisoned spirits". Scholars can only speculate as to what Peter is referring to, and there is not widespread agreement on it.

SO WHAT? (What are the underlying principles?)

• Husbands and wives should strive to love one another in the same way Jesus loves us.  
• We should strive to live peacefully with one another, no matter how much we may suffer.
• Although it would be nice if our lifestyle spoke loudly enough for people to understand God's love, sometimes it's not enough. That is why verse 15 makes it clear that we need to be able to engage in conversation and clearly explain God's offer to save us and have relationship with us to anyone who asks.

NOW WHAT? (How will you personally apply this passage?)

• If you are married, how do you treat your spouse? 
  • Do you show respect to each other?
  • Do you pray for one another?
  • Do you show grace to your spouse the way that God shows grace to you?
• Is your spouse a believer?
  • If so, are you working together to know Jesus more?
  • If not, are you letting you showing Jesus through your life and your love?
• If you are not married, pray that, if you do get married, God will lead you to a grace-filled believer that loves Jesus as much (even more) as you do.
• It can sometimes be difficult to live harmoniously. Did your husband say something horrible to you that you can't forget? Did your boss embarrass you at the company meeting? Did Congress pass a bill you don't agree with? Resist the urge to fight back; give it all to God.
• If someone were to ask you why you believe in Jesus, would you know what to say? Can you articulate what you believe? If not, take the time now to prepare for those potentially life-changing conversations.