Therefore, since Christ suffered in His body
This phrase connects to the broader context of Christ's suffering, particularly His crucifixion, which is central to Christian theology. The use of "therefore" indicates a conclusion drawn from previous teachings, specifically the redemptive suffering of Christ (1 Peter 3:18). The physical suffering of Jesus is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant. This suffering was not only physical but also spiritual, as He bore the sins of humanity. The geographical context of Christ's suffering includes locations like Gethsemane and Golgotha, which are significant in the narrative of His passion.

arm yourselves with the same resolve
The metaphor of arming oneself suggests preparation for battle, indicating that believers are to adopt a mindset of readiness and determination. This resolve is akin to the mindset of Christ, who willingly endured suffering for a greater purpose. The call to "arm yourselves" implies a proactive stance in the face of trials, echoing Ephesians 6:11-17, where believers are instructed to put on the full armor of God. The cultural context of the early church involved persecution, making this exhortation particularly relevant as believers faced hostility for their faith.

because anyone who has suffered in his body is done with sin
This phrase suggests a transformative aspect of suffering, where enduring physical trials can lead to a break from sin. The idea is not that suffering itself purifies, but that it can lead to a deeper reliance on God and a rejection of sinful behaviors. This concept is linked to Romans 6:6-7, where Paul speaks of being crucified with Christ and no longer being slaves to sin. Historically, early Christians often faced persecution, and their willingness to suffer for their faith was seen as evidence of their commitment to Christ and a life free from sin. Theologically, this reflects the sanctification process, where believers grow in holiness through trials.

Consequently
This word indicates a conclusion drawn from previous statements. In 1 Peter 4:1, believers are encouraged to arm themselves with the same mindset as Christ, who suffered in the flesh. The term "consequently" connects the call to live differently with the example of Christ's suffering and victory over sin. This reflects a common biblical theme where suffering leads to spiritual growth and transformation (Romans 5:3-5).

he does not live out his remaining time on earth
This phrase emphasizes the temporary nature of earthly life. The brevity of life is a recurring theme in Scripture, urging believers to focus on eternal matters (James 4:14). The "remaining time" suggests a shift in priorities after conversion, where the believer's life is now oriented towards God's purposes rather than worldly pursuits.

for human passions
Human passions refer to desires that are often contrary to God's will. In the cultural context of the early church, these could include various forms of immorality and idolatry prevalent in Greco-Roman society. The New Testament frequently warns against succumbing to such desires (Galatians 5:19-21), highlighting the conflict between the flesh and the Spirit (Galatians 5:17).

but for the will of God
Living for the will of God involves aligning one's life with His purposes and commands. This is a central theme in the New Testament, where believers are called to discern and follow God's will (Romans 12:2). The will of God is often associated with holiness, love, and service, reflecting the character of Christ. Jesus Himself exemplified this in His prayer in Gethsemane, submitting to the Father's will (Matthew 26:39).

For you have spent enough time in the past carrying out the same desires as the Gentiles:
This phrase addresses the transformation expected in the lives of believers. The "Gentiles" here refers to non-Jews, often seen as living outside the covenant with God and engaging in practices contrary to His will. The early Christian audience, many of whom were Gentile converts, is reminded of their past life before knowing Christ. This echoes Ephesians 4:17-19, where Paul urges believers to no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. The call to leave behind former ways is a common theme in the New Testament, emphasizing repentance and the new life in Christ.

living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and detestable idolatry.
This list of behaviors represents a lifestyle contrary to Christian values. "Debauchery" and "lust" refer to excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures, often condemned in Scripture (Galatians 5:19-21). "Drunkenness" and "orgies" highlight the lack of self-control and moral restraint, which were prevalent in many Greco-Roman social and religious practices. "Carousing" suggests wild, noisy festivities, often associated with pagan worship. "Detestable idolatry" underscores the worship of false gods, a direct violation of the first commandment (Exodus 20:3). These behaviors are contrasted with the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), illustrating the radical change expected in a believer's life. The call to abandon such practices is rooted in the holiness God requires of His people, as seen throughout the Old and New Testaments.

Because of this,
This phrase refers back to the previous verses where Peter discusses living for the will of God rather than human desires. The "this" indicates the lifestyle change that occurs when one becomes a follower of Christ, choosing to live righteously and abstain from sinful behaviors.

they consider it strange
The early Christians were often viewed as peculiar by their contemporaries because they rejected the common social norms and practices of the time, such as idolatry and immorality. This strangeness is a result of their transformation through Christ, which sets them apart from the world (Romans 12:2).

of you not to plunge with them
The imagery of "plunging" suggests a deep involvement in sinful activities. The original Greek word implies a rush or a dive into these behaviors, highlighting the intensity and recklessness of such actions. Christians are called to separate themselves from these practices (2 Corinthians 6:17).

into the same flood of reckless indiscretion,
The "flood" metaphor indicates an overwhelming and destructive force, reminiscent of the flood in Noah's time (Genesis 6-9), which was a judgment on widespread sin. "Reckless indiscretion" refers to a lack of moral restraint, common in the pagan practices of the time, such as drunkenness and debauchery (Galatians 5:19-21).

and they heap abuse on you.
Persecution and verbal abuse were common experiences for early Christians, as their refusal to participate in societal norms was seen as a rejection of the culture itself. This abuse fulfills Jesus' prophecy that His followers would face persecution (John 15:18-20). The Greek term for "heap abuse" suggests slander and reviling, which believers are encouraged to endure patiently (Matthew 5:11-12).

But they will have to give an account
This phrase emphasizes the certainty of divine judgment. In the context of 1 Peter, the "they" refers to those who malign believers for their faith and lifestyle. The concept of giving an account is rooted in the biblical understanding of stewardship and responsibility, as seen in parables like the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30). It underscores the idea that all actions and words are subject to divine scrutiny, aligning with passages such as Romans 14:12, which states that each person will give an account of themselves to God.

to Him who is ready to judge
This phrase highlights the immediacy and preparedness of God to execute judgment. The readiness of God to judge reflects His omniscience and omnipotence, ensuring that justice is not delayed. This readiness is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in Acts 10:42, where Jesus is described as the one appointed by God to judge the living and the dead. The phrase also serves as a warning to those who live in opposition to God's will, reminding them of the impending judgment.

the living and the dead
This phrase indicates the comprehensive scope of God's judgment, encompassing all humanity, regardless of their state. The living and the dead include those currently alive and those who have passed away, affirming the universal nature of divine judgment. This concept is echoed in 2 Timothy 4:1, where Christ is described as the judge of the living and the dead. It also connects to the resurrection of the dead, a core Christian belief, as seen in 1 Corinthians 15:21-22, which speaks of all being made alive in Christ. This phrase assures believers of ultimate justice and vindication, while serving as a sobering reminder of accountability for all.

That is why the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead
This phrase suggests that the gospel message was proclaimed to individuals who have since passed away. The context of 1 Peter indicates that these individuals were likely believers who had heard the gospel during their lifetime but had since died. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching that the gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). The preaching to the "dead" may also reflect the early Christian understanding of Christ's proclamation to the spirits in prison (1 Peter 3:19), emphasizing the reach and power of the gospel beyond physical life. This phrase underscores the hope of resurrection and eternal life, a central tenet of Christian faith, as seen in passages like John 11:25-26.

so that they might be judged as men in the flesh
This part of the verse acknowledges the reality of human judgment and suffering in the physical realm. Believers, like all people, face judgment and trials in their earthly lives. This judgment can refer to the trials and persecutions faced by early Christians, as Peter's audience was experiencing. The phrase reflects the biblical theme of enduring suffering for righteousness' sake, as seen in 1 Peter 3:14-17. It also echoes the teaching of Jesus, who warned His followers of persecution (John 15:18-20). The judgment "in the flesh" contrasts with the ultimate spiritual reality that believers are called to live by.

but live according to God in the spirit
This phrase highlights the transformative power of the gospel, which enables believers to live a new life in accordance with God's will. Living "according to God in the spirit" signifies a life led by the Holy Spirit, characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy (Romans 14:17). It points to the spiritual rebirth and renewal that comes through faith in Christ, as described in passages like 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Galatians 5:16-25. This spiritual life is not bound by physical death but is eternal, aligning with the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ (John 3:16). The contrast between judgment in the flesh and life in the spirit emphasizes the hope and assurance of salvation for believers, despite earthly trials.

The end of all things is near.
This phrase reflects the eschatological urgency present in the early Christian community. The belief in the imminent return of Christ was a central tenet, encouraging believers to live in a state of readiness. This echoes Jesus' teachings in Matthew 24:44, where He instructs His followers to be prepared for His return at any moment. The phrase also connects to the prophetic tradition found in the Old Testament, such as in Daniel 12:4, where the end times are discussed. Historically, the early Christians faced persecution, and the anticipation of Christ's return provided hope and perseverance. Theologically, this statement underscores the transient nature of the world and the eternal significance of spiritual matters.

Therefore be clear-minded and sober,
The call to be clear-minded and sober emphasizes the need for mental and spiritual alertness. In a cultural context, the Greco-Roman world was known for indulgence and excess, making this exhortation particularly countercultural. The term "clear-minded" suggests a disciplined thought life, free from distractions and deceptions, aligning with Paul's advice in Romans 12:2 to be transformed by the renewing of the mind. "Sober" implies self-control and vigilance, qualities necessary for spiritual discernment and effective Christian living. This aligns with 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8, where believers are urged to be sober and watchful, as they belong to the day, not the night.

so that you can pray.
Prayer is presented as the ultimate purpose of being clear-minded and sober. In the biblical context, prayer is a vital means of communication with God, requiring focus and intentionality. The early church, as seen in Acts 2:42, devoted themselves to prayer, recognizing its power and necessity. This phrase suggests that a cluttered or intoxicated mind hinders one's ability to engage in meaningful prayer. Theologically, prayer is an act of dependence on God, aligning the believer's will with His. It is also a means of spiritual warfare, as seen in Ephesians 6:18, where Paul instructs believers to pray in the Spirit on all occasions. This highlights the importance of maintaining a prayerful life in anticipation of Christ's return.

Above all
This phrase emphasizes the supreme importance of the following command. In the context of 1 Peter, the apostle is addressing believers who are experiencing persecution and suffering. The phrase "above all" indicates that what follows is of utmost priority in the Christian life, surpassing other duties and responsibilities. It echoes the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized love as the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-39).

love one another deeply
The call to love deeply suggests an intense, fervent, and sincere love that goes beyond superficial or casual affection. This love is rooted in the Greek word "agape," which denotes selfless, sacrificial love. In the early Christian community, such love was essential for unity and support, especially during times of trial. This command aligns with Jesus' new commandment to love one another as He loved us (John 13:34-35). The depth of this love is a reflection of the love Christ showed through His sacrifice.

because love covers over a multitude of sins
This phrase suggests that love has the power to forgive and overlook offenses, promoting reconciliation and peace within the community. It is reminiscent of Proverbs 10:12, which states, "Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs." The idea is not that love ignores sin but that it seeks to forgive and restore relationships. This covering of sins is a type of Christ's atoning work, where His love and sacrifice cover the sins of humanity. In a communal setting, this principle helps maintain harmony and reflects the forgiving nature of God, as seen in passages like Ephesians 4:32.

Show hospitality to one another
Hospitality in the early Christian church was a vital practice, reflecting the love and unity among believers. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, hospitality was not just a social nicety but a moral obligation. The early church often met in homes, and traveling missionaries and believers relied on the hospitality of fellow Christians. This practice is rooted in the Old Testament, where figures like Abraham (Genesis 18:1-8) exemplified hospitality. The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Himself often being a guest in homes (Luke 10:38-42). Hospitality is a tangible expression of love and service, aligning with Jesus' command to love one another (John 13:34-35).

without complaining
The call to offer hospitality without complaining addresses the human tendency to grumble when inconvenienced. In a time when resources were limited and hosting could be burdensome, the temptation to complain was real. This instruction echoes the broader biblical theme of serving with a joyful heart, as seen in Philippians 2:14, which urges believers to do everything without grumbling. The attitude of the heart is crucial; God desires cheerful givers (2 Corinthians 9:7). This reflects the selfless love of Christ, who served others without complaint, even unto death. The absence of complaining in service is a mark of spiritual maturity and reflects a Christ-like character.

As good stewards of the manifold grace of God
The concept of stewardship is deeply rooted in biblical teaching, where believers are seen as caretakers of God's creation and resources. In the New Testament, stewardship extends to spiritual gifts and the grace bestowed upon believers. The term "manifold" suggests the diverse and multifaceted nature of God's grace, indicating that it is abundant and varied, meeting the needs of the church in numerous ways. This aligns with the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), where servants are entrusted with resources and expected to manage them wisely. The idea of stewardship implies accountability and responsibility, emphasizing that believers are to manage God's gifts not for personal gain but for the benefit of the community and the glory of God.

each of you should use whatever gift he has received
This phrase underscores the individual responsibility of each believer to recognize and utilize their unique spiritual gifts. The Apostle Paul elaborates on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12, where he describes the church as one body with many parts, each having different functions. This diversity in gifts is intended to promote unity and edification within the church. The gifts are not self-generated but are received from God, highlighting the grace aspect of their distribution. The emphasis is on active participation and contribution to the body of Christ, rather than passivity or neglect of one's gifts.

to serve one another
Service is a central theme in the teachings of Jesus, who exemplified servanthood by washing the disciples' feet (John 13:1-17) and ultimately through His sacrificial death on the cross. The call to serve one another reflects the second greatest commandment, to love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:39). In the early church, this service was manifested in communal living and sharing of resources (Acts 2:44-45). The use of spiritual gifts for service is not only a demonstration of love but also a means of building up the church, fostering community, and advancing the mission of the gospel. This service-oriented approach counters the cultural norms of self-promotion and individualism, instead promoting humility and selflessness as modeled by Christ.

If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God.
This phrase emphasizes the responsibility of those who speak within the Christian community, particularly leaders and teachers. The speaker is urged to ensure that their words align with divine truth, reflecting the authority and purity of God's message. This echoes James 3:1, which warns that teachers will be judged more strictly. The phrase also connects to the prophetic tradition in the Old Testament, where prophets were seen as mouthpieces of God, such as in Jeremiah 1:9, where God puts His words in the prophet's mouth. The emphasis is on the integrity and divine origin of the message being conveyed.

If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides,
Service in the Christian context is not merely a human effort but is empowered by divine strength. This reflects the biblical principle found in Philippians 4:13, where Paul states, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." The idea is that God equips believers with the necessary strength to fulfill their roles, whether in the church or in the world. This reliance on God's provision underscores the humility and dependence expected of believers, recognizing that all abilities and opportunities come from Him.

so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ,
The ultimate purpose of speaking and serving is to bring glory to God, a central theme throughout Scripture. This aligns with 1 Corinthians 10:31, which instructs believers to do everything for the glory of God. The phrase "through Jesus Christ" highlights the mediatory role of Christ, through whom believers have access to God and whose life and work exemplify perfect obedience and glorification of the Father. This reflects the Christocentric focus of the New Testament, where Jesus is the means by which God's purposes are fulfilled.

to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
This doxology attributes eternal glory and power to Jesus Christ, affirming His divine nature and eternal reign. It echoes similar doxologies found in Revelation 5:13 and Jude 1:25, which ascribe glory and dominion to God and Christ. The use of "forever and ever" emphasizes the eternal and unchanging nature of Christ's authority and the perpetual worship He is due. The concluding "Amen" signifies agreement and affirmation, a common liturgical response in both Jewish and Christian traditions, underscoring the communal acknowledgment of these truths.

Beloved
This term of endearment indicates Peter's deep affection for his readers, who are fellow believers in Christ. It reflects the familial bond within the Christian community, emphasizing love and unity. The use of "beloved" is consistent with other New Testament writings, such as in 1 John 3:2, where believers are reminded of their identity as children of God.

do not be surprised
Peter advises against astonishment or shock when facing trials. This echoes Jesus' teachings in John 16:33, where He warns His followers of tribulation in the world. The early Christians were often persecuted, and Peter's words serve as a reminder that suffering for faith is to be expected.

at the fiery trial
The imagery of fire suggests purification and testing, akin to refining metals. This metaphor is used throughout Scripture, such as in Malachi 3:2-3, where God is described as a refiner's fire. The trials faced by Peter's audience, likely including persecution under Roman rule, serve to strengthen and purify their faith.

that has come upon you
This phrase indicates that the trials are not random but have a purpose. The passive construction suggests divine allowance, aligning with the belief that God permits trials for the growth and maturity of believers, as seen in James 1:2-4.

as though something strange were happening to you
Peter reassures his readers that their experiences are not unusual for Christians. This aligns with 1 Corinthians 10:13, which states that no temptation is unique to any individual. The early church faced various forms of persecution, and Peter's words provide comfort and perspective, reminding them of the shared experience of suffering for Christ.

But rejoice
Believers are called to find joy even in trials. This echoes James 1:2, where Christians are encouraged to consider it pure joy when facing trials. The early church faced persecution, and this call to rejoice would have been a radical departure from the natural human response to suffering.

that you share in the sufferings of Christ
Sharing in Christ's sufferings means participating in the same kind of trials and persecutions that Jesus endured. This concept is rooted in the idea of fellowship with Christ, as seen in Philippians 3:10. The early Christians understood that suffering for their faith was a way to identify with Jesus, who suffered for humanity's redemption.

so that you may be overjoyed
The future promise of joy is a recurring theme in the New Testament. This joy is not just a temporary feeling but a profound, eternal state that believers will experience. It is a joy that surpasses current trials and is rooted in the hope of what is to come.

at the revelation of His glory
The revelation of Christ's glory refers to His second coming, when He will be revealed in full majesty and power. This is a fulfillment of prophecies such as those found in Daniel 7:13-14 and Revelation 1:7. Believers look forward to this event with anticipation, knowing that their present sufferings will pale in comparison to the glory that will be revealed.

If you are insulted for the name of Christ
This phrase addresses the reality of persecution faced by early Christians. In the Roman Empire, Christians were often marginalized and insulted for their faith in Jesus Christ, who was seen as a threat to traditional Roman religious practices. The phrase "for the name of Christ" emphasizes that the insults are specifically due to their identification with Jesus, aligning with Jesus' own teachings in Matthew 5:11-12, where He speaks of being blessed when persecuted for His sake. This reflects the early church's understanding of suffering as a participation in Christ's own sufferings.

you are blessed
The concept of being "blessed" in the face of persecution is counterintuitive but deeply rooted in biblical teaching. This echoes the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, where Jesus pronounces blessings on those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake. The blessing here is not necessarily material or immediate but is spiritual and eternal, indicating God's favor and approval. It also suggests a future reward, as seen in James 1:12, where those who endure trials are promised the crown of life.

because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you
This phrase draws on Old Testament imagery, particularly from Isaiah 11:2, where the Spirit of the Lord is described as resting upon the Messiah. The "Spirit of glory" suggests the Shekinah glory, the divine presence that dwelt in the tabernacle and temple, now resting upon believers. This indicates that those who suffer for Christ are not abandoned but are indwelt and empowered by the Holy Spirit. The presence of the Spirit is a mark of God's approval and a source of strength and comfort, as seen in Acts 7:55, where Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, sees the glory of God even as he is being martyred.

Indeed, none of you should suffer as a murderer
This phrase emphasizes the moral and ethical standards expected of believers. Murder is explicitly condemned in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:13) and is seen as a grave sin throughout Scripture. Jesus expanded on this in Matthew 5:21-22, teaching that even harboring anger can be akin to murder in the heart. The early Christian community was called to live in stark contrast to the surrounding pagan society, which often resorted to violence. The call here is to avoid actions that would justly bring suffering upon oneself.

or thief
The prohibition against theft is also rooted in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:15). In the New Testament, Paul admonishes believers to work honestly and share with those in need (Ephesians 4:28). Theft undermines trust and community, which are foundational to the Christian fellowship. The early church, as seen in Acts 4:32-35, practiced communal sharing, making theft not only a sin but a betrayal of the community's values.

or wrongdoer
This term encompasses a broad range of sinful behaviors. The Greek word used here can refer to any form of evil or criminal activity. Christians are called to live blameless lives, as seen in Philippians 2:15, where believers are urged to be "children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation." The emphasis is on maintaining a testimony that reflects Christ's righteousness.

or even as a meddler
The inclusion of "meddler" highlights the importance of minding one's own affairs and not interfering in the lives of others unnecessarily. This is consistent with Paul's advice in 1 Thessalonians 4:11 to "aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs." Meddling can lead to unnecessary conflict and suffering, detracting from the Christian witness. The early church faced enough external persecution without adding internal strife through inappropriate involvement in others' matters.

But if you suffer as a Christian
The term "Christian" was first used in Antioch (Acts 11:26) and was initially a term of derision. Suffering as a Christian implies facing persecution or hardship specifically because of one's faith in Jesus Christ. In the early church, believers often faced hostility from both Jewish and Roman authorities. This suffering is not due to wrongdoing but is a result of living out one's faith. The Apostle Peter, who wrote this letter, was familiar with persecution, having been imprisoned and beaten for his faith (Acts 5:40-41).

do not be ashamed
Shame was a powerful social tool in the ancient world, often used to control behavior. However, Peter encourages believers not to feel disgrace for their faith. This echoes Jesus' teaching in Mark 8:38, where He warns against being ashamed of Him and His words. The call is to stand firm in faith, recognizing that suffering for Christ is a badge of honor rather than a source of shame.

but glorify God
Glorifying God in the midst of suffering is a recurring theme in the New Testament. It reflects a deep trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when circumstances are difficult. This aligns with Paul's exhortation in 1 Corinthians 10:31 to do everything for the glory of God. Suffering provides an opportunity to demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel and to witness to others through one's response.

that you bear that name
Bearing the name "Christian" signifies belonging to Christ and being part of His body, the Church. This identity is both a privilege and a responsibility. In biblical times, names held significant meaning, often reflecting character or destiny. To bear the name of Christ is to be associated with His mission, His suffering, and His ultimate victory. This is reminiscent of the promise in Revelation 3:12, where believers are assured of a new name written by God, symbolizing eternal belonging and identity in Him.

For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God;
This phrase indicates a sense of urgency and immediacy, suggesting that the period for divine judgment is at hand. The "family of God" refers to believers, the church, who are seen as God's household. This concept is rooted in the Old Testament, where judgment often began with God's people (Ezekiel 9:6). The idea is that God purifies His people first, ensuring they are living in accordance with His will. This reflects the principle that those who have received greater revelation and responsibility are held to a higher standard (Luke 12:48). The judgment here is not necessarily punitive but can be seen as corrective, aimed at refining and purifying the church.

and if it begins with us,
The "us" refers to the Christian community, including Peter and his audience. This personalizes the message, emphasizing that believers are not exempt from God's scrutiny. The early church faced persecution and trials, which were seen as part of this judgment process. The trials served to test and strengthen their faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). This also echoes the broader biblical theme that God's people are often tested to prove their faithfulness, as seen in the stories of Job and Abraham.

what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God?
This rhetorical question underscores the severity of judgment for those outside the faith. "Those who disobey the gospel" refers to non-believers who reject the message of Christ. The implication is that if God's own people are subject to judgment, the fate of those who reject Him will be even more severe. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who warned of the consequences of unbelief (John 3:36). The phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal implications of rejecting the gospel, highlighting the urgency of evangelism and the need for repentance.

And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved
This phrase acknowledges the challenges faced by believers in maintaining their faith and righteousness. The early Christian community, to whom Peter was writing, often faced persecution and trials, which tested their faith. The concept of salvation being "hard" for the righteous can be linked to Jesus' teachings in Matthew 7:14, where He describes the path to life as narrow and difficult. This difficulty is not due to a lack of God's grace but rather the opposition from the world, the flesh, and the devil. The righteous are those who have been justified by faith, yet they must endure and persevere in their faith journey.

what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
This rhetorical question emphasizes the severity of judgment for those who reject God. In the context of 1 Peter, the "ungodly and the sinner" refers to those outside the covenant community who live in opposition to God's will. The phrase echoes Old Testament themes, such as in Psalm 1:5, where the wicked will not stand in the judgment. It serves as a warning and a call to repentance, highlighting the stark contrast between the fate of the righteous and the unrighteous. The ultimate destiny of the ungodly is separation from God, as seen in passages like Revelation 20:15, which speaks of the final judgment. This underscores the urgency of the gospel message and the need for evangelism.

So then, those who suffer according to God’s will
This phrase acknowledges that suffering can be part of God's divine plan. The early Christians faced persecution, and Peter's letter addresses their trials, encouraging them to see their suffering as aligned with God's purposes. This echoes the experiences of Job, who suffered greatly yet remained faithful, and Jesus, who suffered according to God's will for the redemption of humanity. The concept of suffering for righteousness is also found in Matthew 5:10-12, where Jesus speaks of the blessedness of those persecuted for righteousness' sake.

should entrust their souls
The act of entrusting one's soul implies a deep level of faith and reliance on God. This is reminiscent of Jesus' words on the cross, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit" (Luke 23:46). The idea is to place one's life and future in God's hands, trusting in His ultimate plan and goodness. This trust is a recurring theme in the Psalms, such as Psalm 31:5, where David expresses his trust in God amidst adversity.

to their faithful Creator
Referring to God as the "faithful Creator" emphasizes His reliability and the intimate relationship between the Creator and His creation. This title reminds believers of God's sovereignty and His ongoing care for the world He made. The faithfulness of God is a central theme throughout Scripture, as seen in Lamentations 3:22-23, which speaks of His mercies being new every morning. The creation narrative in Genesis establishes God as the Creator, and His faithfulness is demonstrated throughout the biblical narrative.

and continue to do good
Despite suffering, believers are called to persist in doing good. This reflects the teachings of Jesus, who instructed His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). The call to do good is a hallmark of Christian ethics, as seen in Galatians 6:9, which encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good. This perseverance in righteousness serves as a testimony to others and aligns with the example set by Christ, who went about doing good despite opposition.