Reference: Peter, The Epistles Of
Fausets
FIRST EPISTLE. Genuineness. Attested by 2Pe 3:1. Polycarp (in Eusebius 4:14); who in writing to the Philippians (Philippians 2) quotes 1Pe 1:13,21; 3:9; in Philippians 5; 1Pe 2:11. Eusebius (H. E. 3:39) says of Papins that he too quotes 1 Peter. Irenaeus (Haer. 4:9, section 2) expressly mentions it; in 4:16, section 5, 1Pe 2:16. Clemens Alex. (Strom. 1:3, 544) quotes 1Pe 2:11-12,15-16; and p. 562, 1Pe 1:21-22; and in 4:584, 1Pe 3:14-17; and p. 585, 1Pe 4:12-14. Origen (in Eusebius H. E. 6:25) mentions it; in Homily 7 on Joshua (vol. 2:63), both epistles; and in Commentary on Psalms and John 1Pe 3:18-21. Tertullian (Scorp. 12) quotes 1Pe 2:20-21; and in 14 1Pe 2:13,17. Eusebius calls 1 Peter one of "the universally acknowledged epistles.
The Peshito Syriac has it. Muratori's Fragm. of Canon omits it. The Paulicians alone rejected it. The internal evidence for it is strong. The author calls himself the apostle Peter (1Pe 1:1), "a witness of Christ's sufferings," and "an elder" (1Pe 5:1). The energetic style accords with Peter's character. Erasmus remarks this epistle is full of apostolical dignity and authority, worthy of the leader among the apostles.
PERSONS ADDRESSED. 1Pe 1:1; "to the elect strangers (pilgrims spiritually) of the dispersion," namely, Jewish Christians primarily. 1Pe 1:14. 1Pe 2:9-10; 4:3, prove that Gentile Christians, as grafted into the Christian Jewish stock and so becoming of the true Israel, are secondarily addressed. Thus the apostle of the circumcision seconded the apostle of the uncircumcision in uniting Jew and Gentile in the one Christ. Peter enumerates the provinces in the order from N.E, to S. and W. Pontus was the country of the Christian Jew Aquila.
Paul twice visited Galatia, founding and confirming churches. Crescens, his companion, went there just before Paul's last imprisonment (2Ti 4:10). Men of Cappadocia, as well as of "Pontus" and "Asia" (including Mysia, Lydia, Curia, Phrygia, Pisidia, and Lycaonia), were among Peter's hearers on Pentecost; these brought home to their native lands the first tidings of the gospel. In Lycaonia were the churches of Iconium, founded by Paul and Barnabas; of Lystra, Timothy's birthplace, where Paul was stoned; and of Derbe, the birthplace of Gains or Caius. In Pisidia was Antioch, where Paul preached (Acts 13) so effectively, but from which he was driven out by the Jews. In Caria was Miletus, where Paul convened the Ephesian elders.
In Phrygia Paul preached when visiting twice the neighbouring Galatia. The churches of Laodicea were Hierapolis and Colesse (having as members Philemon and Onesimus, and leaders Archippus and Epaphras). In Lydia was the Philadelphian church favorably noticed Re 3:7; that of Sardis the capital; Thyatira; and Ephesus, founded by Paul, laboured in by Aquila, Priscilla, Apollos, and Paul for three years, censured for leaving its first love (Re 2:4). Smyrna received unqualified praise. In Mysia was Pergamos. Troas was the scene of Paul's preaching, raising Eutychus, and staying with Carpus long subsequently.
Into Bithynia when Paul "assayed to go" the Spirit suffered him not; afterward the Spirit imparted to Bithynia the gospel, as 1Pe 1:1 implies, probably through Peter. These churches were in much the same state (1Pe 5:1-2 "feed") as when Paul addressed the Ephesian elders at Miletus (Ac 20:17,28, "feed".) Presbyter bishops ruled, Peter exercising a general superintendence. The persecutions to which they were exposed were annoyances and reproach for Christ's sake, because of their nut joining pagan neighbours in riotous living; so they needed warning lest they should fall. Ambition and lucre seeking are the evil tendencies against Which Peter warns the presbyters (1Pe 5:2-3), evil thoughts and words, and a lack of mutual sympathy among the members.
OBJECT. By the heavenly prospect before them, and by Christ the example, Peter consoles the partially persecuted, and prepares them for a severer ordeal coming. He exhorts all, husbands, wives, servants, elders, and people, by discharging relative duties to give the foe no handle for reproaching Christianity, rather to attract them to it; so Peter seeks to establish them in "the true grace of God wherein they stand "; but the Alexandrinus, Vaticanus, and Sinaiticus manuscripts read "stand ye," imperatively (1Pe 5:12), "Grace" is the keynote of Paul's doctrine which Peter confirms (Eph 2:5,8; Ro 5:2). He "exhorts and testifies" in this epistle on the ground of the gospel truths already well known to his readers by Pupil's teaching in those churches. He does not state the details of gospel grace, but takes them for granted (1Pe 1:8,18; 3:15; 2Pe 3:1).
DIVISIONS.
(I) Inscription (1Pe 1:2).
(II) Stirs up believers' pure feeling, as born again of God, by the motive of hope to which God has regenerated us (1Pe 1:3-12), to bring forth faith's holy fruits, seeing that Christ redeemed us from sin at so costly a price (1Pe 1:13-21). Purified by the Spirit unto love of the brethren, as begotten of God's abiding word, spiritual priest-kings, to whom alone Christ is precious (1Pe 1:22-2:10). As Paul is the apostle of faith and John of love, so Peter of hope. After Christ's example in suffering, maintain a good "conversation" (conduct) in every relation (1Pe 2:11-3:14), and a good "profession" of faith, having in view Christ's once offered sacrifice and His future coming to judgment (1Pe 3:15-4:11); showing patience in adversity, as looking for future glorification with Christ
(1) in general as Christians (1Pe 4:12-19),
(2) each in his own relation (1Pe 5:1-11). "Beloved" separates the second part from the first (1Pe 2:11), and the third from the second (1Pe 4:12).
(III) The conclusion. Time and place of writing. It was before the systematic persecution of Christians in Nero's later years. The acquaintance evidenced with Paul's epistles written previous to or during his first imprisonment at Rome (ending A.D. 63) shows it was after them. Compare 1Pe 2:13 with Romans 13; 1Pe 2:18; Eph 6:5; 1Pe 1:2; Eph 1:4-7; 1Pe 1:3; Eph 1:3; 1Pe 1:14; Ro 12:2; 1Pe 2:6-10; Ro 9:32-33; 1Pe 2:13; Ro 13:1-4; 1Pe 2:16; Ga 5:13; 1Pe 2:18; Eph 6:5; 1Pe 3:1; Eph 5:22; 1Pe 3:9; Ro 12:17; 1Pe 4:9; Ro 12:13; Php 2:14; Heb 13:2; 1Pe 4:10; Ro 12:6-8; 1Pe 5:1; Ro 8:18; 1Pe 5:5; Eph 5:21; Php 2:3-8; 1Pe 5:8; 1Th 5:6; 1Pe 5:14; 1Co 16:20.
In 1Pe 5:13 Mark is mentioned as at Babylon; this must have been after Col 4:10 (A.D. 61-63), when Mark was with Paul at Rome but intending to go to Asia. It was either when he went to Colosse that he proceeded to Peter, thence to Ephesus, from whence (2Ti 4:11) Paul tells Timothy to bring him to Rome (A.D. 67 or 68); or after Paul's second imprisonment and death Peter testified to the same churches, those of Asia Minor, following up Paul's teachings. This is more likely, for Peter would hardly trench on Paul's field of labour during Paul's life. The Gentile as well as the Hebrew Christians would after Paul's removal naturally look to Peter and the spiritual fathers of the Jerusalem church for counsel wherewith to meet Judaizing Christians and heretics; false teachers may have appealed from Paul to James and Peter. Therefore Peter confirms Paul and shows there is no difference between their teachings. Origen's and Eusebius' statement that Peter visited the Asiatic churches in person seems probable.
PLACE. Peter wrote from Babylon (1Pe 5:13). He would never use a mystical name for Rome, found only in prophecy, in a matter of fact letter amidst ordinary salutations. The apostle of the circumcision would naturally be at Chaldaean Babylon where was "a great multitude of Jews" (Josephus, Ant. 15:2, section 2; 3, section 1). Cosmas Indicopleustes (sixth century) understood the Babylon to be outside the Roman empire. The order in which Peter enumerates the countries, from N.E. to S. and W., is such as one writing from Babylon would adopt. Silvanus, Paul's companion, subsequently Peter's, carried the epistle.
STYLE. Fervor and practical exhortation characterize this epistle, as was to be expected from the warm hearted writer. The logical reasoning of Paul is not here; but Paul's gospel, as communicated to Peter by Paul (Ga 1:18; 2
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who appeared in glory, and mentioned his departure, which he was ready to accomplish at Jerusalem.
And it came to pass, as they were departing from him, Peter said unto Jesus, it is well that we are here, and we will make three tents, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias; not knowing what he said.
When therefore they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith to him, Yes, Lord! thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yes, Lord! thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. read more. He saith to him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said to him, Lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee! Jesus saith to him, Feed my sheep. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast a younger man, thou didst gird up thyself, and go about whithersoever thy choice led thee: but when thou shalt grow old, another person extending thy hands, shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This he told him, to intimate by what kind of death he should glorify God. And having thus spoken, he said to him, Follow me.
For he was reckoned of our number, and had obtained an appointment to this ministry.
The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and illustrious day of the Lord come.
This very Jesus hath God raised up, of which we all are witnesses.
Then Peter observing it, addressed himself to the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why gaze ye upon us, as if by our own power or piety we had enabled this man to walk?
but ye slew the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead: of which we are witnesses.
but ye slew the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead: of which we are witnesses.
But the things which God before announced by the mouth of all his prophets, that Messiah should suffer, he hath thus fulfilled. Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when refreshing seasons shall come from the presence of the Lord;
Unto you in the first instance, hath God, after raising up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, to the end that every one of you should turn away from your iniquities.
This is the stone which, though set at nought by you builders, is become the head of the corner.
Then they with many additional threatenings dismissed them, finding no pretext how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for what had been done.
The God of our fathers hath raised up Jesus, whom ye had killed, suspending him on a tree.
And we are witnesses of these things; and the Holy Ghost also, which God hath given to those who obey him.
a man of piety, and who feared God with all his house, giving much alms to the people, and praying to God continually.
But when the angel departed who spake to Cornelius, he called two of his domestics, and a pious soldier, persons who constantly were in attendance upon him;
And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the region of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they killed suspending him on a tree: him God raised up the third day, and ordained that he should be visibly manifested;
And hath commanded us to proclaim to the people, and to bear our testimony that this is the person who is ordained of God the Judge of the living and the dead. To him bear all the prophets witness, that through his name every one who believeth in him, shall receive remission of sins.
So he sent to Ephesus from Miletus, and called the presbyters of the church to attend him.
Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Ghost hath made you bishops, to feed as shepherds the church of God, which he purchased with his own blood.
Or despisest thou the riches of his kindness and patience and long-suffering, ignorant that this goodness of God is leading thee to repentance?
by whom also we have had an introduction through faith into this grace in which we have stood fast, and are rejoicing in hope of the glory of God.
For I reckon that the sufferings of the present moment are not worthy to be placed against the future glory that shall be revealed to us.
And why? Because they sought it not by faith, but as by the works of the law. For they stumbled against that stone of stumbling; as it is written, "Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence: and every one that believeth in him shall not be confounded."
And be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renovation of your mind, that you may prove by experience what is the will of God, that is good, acceptable, and perfect.
Having then different gifts according to the grace which is given unto us, if it be prophecy, speak according to the analogy of faith; or if the deacon's office, be active in the service; or he that teacheth, in teaching; read more. or he that exhorteth, in exhortation; he that distributes, let him do it with simplicity; he that presideth, with diligence; he that is employed in acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
communicating to the wants of the saints; prompt to hospitality.
Render to no man evil for evil. Be provident of things laudable in the sight of all men.
LET every soul be subject to the superior powers: for there is no power but from God; the existing powers are appointed by God. Wherefore he that sets himself against authority, resists the ordinance of God: and they who resist shall receive to themselves condemnation. read more. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise from it: for he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou doest that which is evil, tremble! for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, an avenger to inflict wrath on him that practises what is evil.
PAUL, a called apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Sosthenes a brother,
PAUL the apostle (not [sent] from men, nor by man, but by Jesus Christ, and our Father who raised him from the dead),
Afterwards at the expiration of three years I went up unto Jerusalem to pay a visit to Peter, and I abode with him fifteen days.
And I went up then by revelation, and laid before them that gospel which I preach among the Heathen, but in private conference with those who were of the first importance, that haply I might not run, nor had run in vain.
For ye have been called unto liberty, brethren; only use not that liberty as a pretext for carnality, but in love be subject one to another.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly things in Christ;
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly things in Christ; as he hath elected us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him in love: read more. having predestinated us for his adopted children by Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, whereby he hath made us acceptable in that beloved one; in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
though we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved,)
For by grace ye are saved through faith, and this not of yourselves; it is the gift of God:
being subject one to another in the fear of God.
being subject one to another in the fear of God. Wives, be in subjection to your own husbands, as to the Lord.
Wives, be in subjection to your own husbands, as to the Lord.
Servants, be obedient to your masters after the flesh, with fear and trembling, in simplicity of your heart as unto Christ;
Servants, be obedient to your masters after the flesh, with fear and trembling, in simplicity of your heart as unto Christ;
Servants, be obedient to your masters after the flesh, with fear and trembling, in simplicity of your heart as unto Christ;
PAUL and Timothy, servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:
Let nothing be done contentiously or vain-gloriously; but in humility reckoning others superior to yourselves. Let not each aim at their own particular interests, but every man at those of others. read more. Let the same sentiment of mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who being in the form of God counted it no usurpation to claim equality with God: but emptied himself, assuming the form of a servant, made after the similitude of mortal men; and found in fashion as man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even to the death of the cross.
Do all things without murmurings or disputes:
There salute you Aristarchus my fellow-prisoner, and Mark nephew to Barnabas, concerning whom ye have received injunctions; if he come unto you, receive him,
for yourselves know precisely that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
for Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is gone unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia; Titus to Dalmatia. Luke alone is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee; for he is very useful to me in the ministry.
Forget not to exercise hospitality: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into various trials; knowing that the proof of your faith produceth patience.
but the rich, in his abasement: for as the flower of grass he shall pass away.
Wherefore laying aside all vicious pollution, and the abundance of iniquity, receive with meekness the ingrafted word, which hath power to save your souls.
But he giveth mightier grace. Wherefore he saith, "God sets himself against the proud, but giveth grace to the lowly."
let him know, that he that converteth a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death, and will cover a multitude of sins.
PETER, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the sojourners, dispersed through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
PETER, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the sojourners, dispersed through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
PETER, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the sojourners, dispersed through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
PETER, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the sojourners, dispersed through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by sanctification of the Spirit, that they might be brought to the obedience, and sprinkled with the blood of Jesus Christ: grace unto you and peace be multiplied. read more. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto an animating hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto an animating hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto an animating hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, for an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and unfading, reserved in the heavens for you,
for an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and unfading, reserved in the heavens for you, who are guarded by the omnipotence of God, through faith to obtain the salvation which is ready to appear at the last time. read more. Wherein ye exult, though yet for a little space, (if it must be so,) ye are in sorrow through various trials:
Wherein ye exult, though yet for a little space, (if it must be so,) ye are in sorrow through various trials: that the test of your faith (much more precious than that of gold, which is of a perishing nature, though proved by fire) may be found unto praise and honour and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ:
that the test of your faith (much more precious than that of gold, which is of a perishing nature, though proved by fire) may be found unto praise and honour and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ: whom though ye have not seen, ye love; on whom, though ye have not as yet gazed, yet believing, ye exult with joy unutterable and glorious:
whom though ye have not seen, ye love; on whom, though ye have not as yet gazed, yet believing, ye exult with joy unutterable and glorious:
whom though ye have not seen, ye love; on whom, though ye have not as yet gazed, yet believing, ye exult with joy unutterable and glorious: receiving the end of your faith, the salvation of your souls. read more. Concerning which salvation the prophets eagerly sought and diligently inquired, who prophesied of the grace which is come to you:
Concerning which salvation the prophets eagerly sought and diligently inquired, who prophesied of the grace which is come to you: investigating to what time and to what conjuncture the Spirit of Christ in them pointed, when predicting the sufferings coming upon Christ, and the glories subsequent thereto.
investigating to what time and to what conjuncture the Spirit of Christ in them pointed, when predicting the sufferings coming upon Christ, and the glories subsequent thereto. To whom it was revealed, that not for themselves, but for us were their ministrations employed in the things which are now declared unto you by those who have preached the gospel unto you by the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; on which things the angels bending forwards eagerly desire to gaze.
To whom it was revealed, that not for themselves, but for us were their ministrations employed in the things which are now declared unto you by those who have preached the gospel unto you by the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; on which things the angels bending forwards eagerly desire to gaze. Wherefore girding up the loins of your mind, vigilant, wait with assured hope for the grace, which shall be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
Wherefore girding up the loins of your mind, vigilant, wait with assured hope for the grace, which shall be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conformed to the former passions of the days of your ignorance:
as obedient children, not conformed to the former passions of the days of your ignorance: but as he who hath called you is holy, be ye holy also in all your conduct:
but as he who hath called you is holy, be ye holy also in all your conduct: because it is written, "Be ye holy; for I am holy." read more. And if ye invoke him as Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, conduct yourselves during the time of your sojourning with [jealous] fear:
And if ye invoke him as Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, conduct yourselves during the time of your sojourning with [jealous] fear: knowing that ye have not been redeemed out of your vain manner of life, derived traditionally from your fathers, by the corruptible things, silver and gold,
knowing that ye have not been redeemed out of your vain manner of life, derived traditionally from your fathers, by the corruptible things, silver and gold, but by the precious blood of Christ, as the unblemished and spotless lamb:
but by the precious blood of Christ, as the unblemished and spotless lamb: who was indeed predestined before the foundation of the world, but manifested in these last times for us, read more. who by him believe in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
who by him believe in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
who by him believe in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Having purified your souls by obedience to the truth through the Spirit unto fraternal affection undissembled, love each other intensely out of a pure heart:
Having purified your souls by obedience to the truth through the Spirit unto fraternal affection undissembled, love each other intensely out of a pure heart:
as new-born babes desire earnestly the unadulterated milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
By you therefore who believe is he honoured: but respecting the disobedient, "the stone which the builders rejected, this very stone is become the head of the corner,
By you therefore who believe is he honoured: but respecting the disobedient, "the stone which the builders rejected, this very stone is become the head of the corner,
But ye are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people acquired by purchase; that ye should publish abroad the excellencies of him, who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
But ye are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people acquired by purchase; that ye should publish abroad the excellencies of him, who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
Beloved, I exhort you, as strangers and sojourners, Abstain from carnal lusts, which war against the soul;
Beloved, I exhort you, as strangers and sojourners, Abstain from carnal lusts, which war against the soul;
Beloved, I exhort you, as strangers and sojourners, Abstain from carnal lusts, which war against the soul; having your conduct ornamental among the Gentiles: that, whereas they malign you as wicked doers, they may, being eye-witnesses of your good works, glorify God in the day when he visits them. read more. Be subject therefore to every human constitution for the Lord's sake; whether to a king as the supreme magistrate;
Be subject therefore to every human constitution for the Lord's sake; whether to a king as the supreme magistrate;
Be subject therefore to every human constitution for the Lord's sake; whether to a king as the supreme magistrate;
For such is the will of God, that by well doing ye hold under restraint the ignorance of foolish men: as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for wicked practices; but as being servants of God.
as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for wicked practices; but as being servants of God.
as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for wicked practices; but as being servants of God. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. read more. Servants, be in subjection to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but even to the froward. For this is gracious conduct, if for conscience towards God, any man undergo sorrows, suffering wrongfully. For what glory would there be, if committing faults, and being buffeted, ye suffered patiently? but if, when ye behave well, yet suffer, ye bear it patiently, this is graciously accepted of God. For hereunto have ye been called, because Christ also hath suffered for you, leaving you a pattern, that ye should follow his steps;
For ye were as sheep wandering astray; but are now returned unto the pastor and bishop of your souls.
LIKEWISE, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, even if some obey not the word, by their wives' conduct without the word, they may be won over;
For so in times of old the holy women also, who hoped in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection to their own husbands;
not returning evil for evil, or railing for railing; but, contrariwise, wishing men every blessing; knowing that hereunto ye have been called, that ye should inherit the [divine] benediction.
but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be always ready with your reply to every man who demands a reason respecting the hope which is in you with meekness and fear:
For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, put to death indeed in the flesh, but raised to life by the Spirit: by which also he went and preached to those spirits imprisoned; read more. who in time of old were disobedient, when the long suffering of God in the days of Noe waited, while the ark was preparing, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were preserved through the water. The antitype to which baptism now saveth us (not the mere removal of filth from the flesh, but the engagement of a good conscience to God), by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
The antitype to which baptism now saveth us (not the mere removal of filth from the flesh, but the engagement of a good conscience to God), by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
The antitype to which baptism now saveth us (not the mere removal of filth from the flesh, but the engagement of a good conscience to God), by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
Beloved, be not amazed at the fiery trial among you which is to bring you to the test, as though something strange happened to you;
Beloved, be not amazed at the fiery trial among you which is to bring you to the test, as though something strange happened to you;
Beloved, be not amazed at the fiery trial among you which is to bring you to the test, as though something strange happened to you; but as ye share in the sufferings of Christ rejoice, that at the revelation of his glory also ye may hail him with exultations.
but as ye share in the sufferings of Christ rejoice, that at the revelation of his glory also ye may hail him with exultations. If ye suffer reproach for the name of Christ, blessed are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: by them indeed he is blasphemed, but by you he is glorified.
If ye suffer reproach for the name of Christ, blessed are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: by them indeed he is blasphemed, but by you he is glorified. Let no one of you then suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil-doer, or a meddler in other persons' business. read more. But if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him give glory to God on this very account. For now is the time when judgment is commencing at the house of God; and if it begin with us, what will be the end of those who obey not the gospel of God?
For now is the time when judgment is commencing at the house of God; and if it begin with us, what will be the end of those who obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous man is hardly saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? read more. Wherefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to him in well-doing as to the faithful Creator.
THE presbyters among you I exhort, who am a co-presbyter and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker of the glory which shall be revealed:
THE presbyters among you I exhort, who am a co-presbyter and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker of the glory which shall be revealed:
THE presbyters among you I exhort, who am a co-presbyter and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker of the glory which shall be revealed: feed the flock of God which is among you, exercising your pastoral office not of necessity, but of choice, not for base gain, but with alacrity of mind;
feed the flock of God which is among you, exercising your pastoral office not of necessity, but of choice, not for base gain, but with alacrity of mind;
feed the flock of God which is among you, exercising your pastoral office not of necessity, but of choice, not for base gain, but with alacrity of mind;
feed the flock of God which is among you, exercising your pastoral office not of necessity, but of choice, not for base gain, but with alacrity of mind; not as domineering over your allotted congregations, but as being examples of the flock.
not as domineering over your allotted congregations, but as being examples of the flock. And when the arch Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that will never fade away.
And when the arch Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that will never fade away. In like manner, ye who are younger persons, be in subjection to your elders: but all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed from head to foot with humility: for God sets himself in opposition to the proud, but he giveth grace to the lowly.
In like manner, ye who are younger persons, be in subjection to your elders: but all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed from head to foot with humility: for God sets himself in opposition to the proud, but he giveth grace to the lowly. Humble yourselves therefore beneath the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due season:
Humble yourselves therefore beneath the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due season: casting all your anxiety upon him; for he careth for you. read more. Be sober, be vigilant; for your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, prowleth around, seeking whom he may devour: against whom stand fast, firm in the faith, knowing that the very same sufferings are fully endured by the brotherhood which is in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, when ye have suffered a little while, himself perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
But the God of all grace, who hath called us to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, when ye have suffered a little while, himself perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and might for ever and ever. Amen. read more. By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I think, I have written to you a few words, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye are standing fast. She who is co-elect at Babylon, saluteth you, and my son Mark.
She who is co-elect at Babylon, saluteth you, and my son Mark. Salute one another with a kiss of love. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
SIMON Peter, the servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who have obtained with us the same precious faith by the righteousness of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ:
SIMON Peter, the servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who have obtained with us the same precious faith by the righteousness of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ: grace unto you and peace be multiplied through the knowledge of God, even Jesus our Lord,
grace unto you and peace be multiplied through the knowledge of God, even Jesus our Lord, as his divine power hath freely given us all things tending to life and godliness, through the acknowledgment of him who hath called us to glory and fortitude: read more. whereby superlatively great and precious promises are freely given to us: that by these ye might become partakers of a divine nature, having fled far away from the corruption that is in the world through inordinate concupiscence.??5 And for this very purpose employing the greatest diligence, lead up in the train of your faith courage; and with courage intelligence;
whereby superlatively great and precious promises are freely given to us: that by these ye might become partakers of a divine nature, having fled far away from the corruption that is in the world through inordinate concupiscence.??5 And for this very purpose employing the greatest diligence, lead up in the train of your faith courage; and with courage intelligence;
and with intelligence moderation; and with moderation patience; and with patience piety; and with piety fraternal affection; and with fraternal affection love. read more. For if these things are in your possession, and abounding, they will render you neither inactive nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make sure your calling and election: for by doing these things, ye shall never at any time stumble:
Wherefore I will not be negligent continually to remind you of these things, though ye know them, and are established in the present truth.
Wherefore I will not be negligent continually to remind you of these things, though ye know them, and are established in the present truth. Indeed, I think it right, as long as I am in this frail tabernacle, to rouse up your attention by reminding you:
Indeed, I think it right, as long as I am in this frail tabernacle, to rouse up your attention by reminding you:
Indeed, I think it right, as long as I am in this frail tabernacle, to rouse up your attention by reminding you: knowing that the deposition of this frail tabernacle of mine is hastily approaching, as our Lord Jesus Christ hath made evident to me.
knowing that the deposition of this frail tabernacle of mine is hastily approaching, as our Lord Jesus Christ hath made evident to me. I will endeavour then that even after my decease, ye may always have wherewith to preserve the remembrance of these things.
I will endeavour then that even after my decease, ye may always have wherewith to preserve the remembrance of these things. For we have not followed artfully devised fables, when we made known to you the power and advent of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of his majesty.
For we have not followed artfully devised fables, when we made known to you the power and advent of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when such a voice was sent forth to him from the transcendently magnificent glory, This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased.
For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when such a voice was sent forth to him from the transcendently magnificent glory, This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice we heard coming out of heaven, when we were with him on the holy mountain.
And this voice we heard coming out of heaven, when we were with him on the holy mountain. And we hold the prophetic word more confirmed, to which ye do well to attend, as to a lamp shining in a dark passage, until the day dawn, and the morning-star arise upon your hearts.
And we hold the prophetic word more confirmed, to which ye do well to attend, as to a lamp shining in a dark passage, until the day dawn, and the morning-star arise upon your hearts. Knowing this in the first place, that all scriptural prophecy is not from any man's own suggestions. read more. For prophecy in old time came not by the will of man: but the holy men of God spake under the impulse of the Holy Ghost.
For prophecy in old time came not by the will of man: but the holy men of God spake under the impulse of the Holy Ghost.
For prophecy in old time came not by the will of man: but the holy men of God spake under the impulse of the Holy Ghost.
For prophecy in old time came not by the will of man: but the holy men of God spake under the impulse of the Holy Ghost.
BUT there were false prophets among the people, as there will be false teachers also among you, who wickedly introduce damnable heresies, and deny the sovereign Lord who bought them, bringing on themselves swift destruction.
BUT there were false prophets among the people, as there will be false teachers also among you, who wickedly introduce damnable heresies, and deny the sovereign Lord who bought them, bringing on themselves swift destruction.
BUT there were false prophets among the people, as there will be false teachers also among you, who wickedly introduce damnable heresies, and deny the sovereign Lord who bought them, bringing on themselves swift destruction. And many will go out of the way after their fatal errors; by means of whom the way of truth will be injuriously reviled.
For if God spared not the angels when they sinned, but casting them bound in chains of darkness into hell, delivered them to be kept fast until the judgment; and spared not the old world, but guarded safely Noah the eighth person, the preacher of righteousness, when he brought a deluge on the world of the ungodly:
and spared not the old world, but guarded safely Noah the eighth person, the preacher of righteousness, when he brought a deluge on the world of the ungodly: and reducing the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes, condemned them to final destruction, making them an example for all who in future should live ungodly;
and reducing the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes, condemned them to final destruction, making them an example for all who in future should live ungodly;
and reducing the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes, condemned them to final destruction, making them an example for all who in future should live ungodly; but righteous Lot, afflicted grievously with the infamously impure conduct of those lawless men, he plucked out:
but righteous Lot, afflicted grievously with the infamously impure conduct of those lawless men, he plucked out: for by seeing and hearing, that righteous man whilst sojourning among them, suffered torment day by day in his righteous soul from their lawless doings; read more. the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, but to reserve the wicked unto the day of judgment to be punished:
the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, but to reserve the wicked unto the day of judgment to be punished:
the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, but to reserve the wicked unto the day of judgment to be punished: especially such as walk after the flesh in the eager pursuit of defilement, and despise government. Daring, self-sufficient, they tremble not at dignities, railing against them.
especially such as walk after the flesh in the eager pursuit of defilement, and despise government. Daring, self-sufficient, they tremble not at dignities, railing against them. Whereas the angels, though so much greater in might and power, bring not a reviling accusation against them before the Lord.
receiving the recompence of iniquity, counting daily luxury their pleasure; spots and blemishes, when they feast together with you; riotously indulging in their own delusions:
who forsaking the strait road are gone out of the way, following the path of Balaam the son of Bosor who loved the wages of iniquity.
who forsaking the strait road are gone out of the way, following the path of Balaam the son of Bosor who loved the wages of iniquity.
who forsaking the strait road are gone out of the way, following the path of Balaam the son of Bosor who loved the wages of iniquity. But received a reproof for his peculiar transgression: the dumb ass articulating with a human voice restrained the perverseness of the prophet. read more. These are fountains without water, clouds driven by a hurricane; for whom the blackness of darkness for ever is reserved. Uttering pompous discourses of inanity, ensnaring by the lusts of the flesh, by lascivious impurities, those who had truly escaped from such as live in a course of delusion.
Uttering pompous discourses of inanity, ensnaring by the lusts of the flesh, by lascivious impurities, those who had truly escaped from such as live in a course of delusion. Preaching liberty to them, while they themselves are the slaves of corruption: for by whatever a man is overcome, by that also he is enslaved. read more. For if having escaped from the defilements of the world by the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again enveloped by them and overcome, their last deeds are worse than the first. For it had been better for them never to have been acquainted with the way of righteousness, than, after knowing it, to have turned aside from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
THIS second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I rouse up your sincere mind by awakening your recollection
THIS second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I rouse up your sincere mind by awakening your recollection
THIS second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I rouse up your sincere mind by awakening your recollection to remember the words, that have been spoken aforetime by the holy prophets, and the injunction of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: read more. knowing this principally, that in the last of the days there will come scoffers, walking after their own lewd passions,
knowing this principally, that in the last of the days there will come scoffers, walking after their own lewd passions,
knowing this principally, that in the last of the days there will come scoffers, walking after their own lewd passions,
For this they chuse to keep out of sight, that by the word of God the heavens were created of old, and the earth rising out of the water and subsisting amidst the water; whence the world then existing, being deluged by water, was destroyed;
But let not this particular be concealed from you, beloved, that one day with the Lord is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
But let not this particular be concealed from you, beloved, that one day with the Lord is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord doth not delay the promise (as some count it delay); but is longsuffering towards us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should have space for repentance. read more. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief by night; in which the heavens shall pass away with a rushing noise, and the first principles of matter in flames dissolve, and the earth and all the works upon it be burnt up.
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief by night; in which the heavens shall pass away with a rushing noise, and the first principles of matter in flames dissolve, and the earth and all the works upon it be burnt up.
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief by night; in which the heavens shall pass away with a rushing noise, and the first principles of matter in flames dissolve, and the earth and all the works upon it be burnt up.
But we expect according to his promise new heavens and a new earth in which dwelleth righteousness.
But we expect according to his promise new heavens and a new earth in which dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing ye are expecting these things, be diligent to be found of him in peace, spotless and blameless.
Wherefore, beloved, seeing ye are expecting these things, be diligent to be found of him in peace, spotless and blameless. And account the long suffering of our Lord conducive to salvation; as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, hath written unto you;
And account the long suffering of our Lord conducive to salvation; as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, hath written unto you;
And account the long suffering of our Lord conducive to salvation; as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, hath written unto you;
And account the long suffering of our Lord conducive to salvation; as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, hath written unto you; as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, of which some are difficult to be understood, which the uninstructed and the unstable torture, as indeed they do the rest of the scriptures unto their own destruction. read more. Ye therefore, beloved, knowing this before, be on your guard, that ye be not carried away with the delusion of these lawless men, and fall from your own stedfastness.
Ye therefore, beloved, knowing this before, be on your guard, that ye be not carried away with the delusion of these lawless men, and fall from your own stedfastness.
Ye therefore, beloved, knowing this before, be on your guard, that ye be not carried away with the delusion of these lawless men, and fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory now and unto the day of eternity. Amen.
But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory now and unto the day of eternity. Amen.
But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory now and unto the day of eternity. Amen.
Yet have I a charge against thee, that thou art gone back from thy first love.
And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, These things saith the Holy One, he that is true, who hath the key of David, who openeth, and none shutteth, and shutteth, and no man openeth.