Wives and Husbands. Suffering for Doing Right. 1 Peter 3:1-22

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1 1 Wives and Husbands Suffering for Doing Right 1 Peter 3:1-22.

2 2 Wives and Husbands Suffering For Doing Right 1 Peter 3:1-22, 1. Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 2. While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. 3. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4. But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. 5. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: 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. 7. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. 8. Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 9. Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. 10. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: 11. Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. 12. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

3 3 13. And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? 14. But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; 15. But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: 16. Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. 17. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. 18. For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: 19. By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; 20. Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. 21. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: 22. Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. Introduction: I. Coffman observed that Peter continues in this chapter to give instructions to specific groups; viz, to: A. wives. B. husbands. C. Christians as a whole.

4 4 II. Coffman also noted that Peter concludes by emphasizing the blessedness of suffering for righteousness. A. This may have been a reference to the intense persecution against Christians under Nero, the wicked Roman ruler. III. Society has changed markedly in regard to the relationship of men and women in all respects, since the first of the century. A. Scriptures teach that wives are to be submissive to their husbands and husbands are to respect and care for their wives. B. Black and Black wrote, A growing percentage of our society has adopted the egalitarian veiew that in every respect of life, including the church and home, there should be no difference in the roles of men and women except those that are mandated by biology C. Black and Black conclude that 1 Peter 3:1-6 presents an obvious problem for the egalitarian position in regards to roles of men and women in the church. Commentary: Wives and Husbands 1 Peter 3:1, 2, Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. I. In like manner, in the same way,

5 5 A. As Christians are to submit to governmental authority, wives are to be submissive to their own husbands in the Lord. II. ye wives, III. be submissive, in subjection to your own husbands; A. This same command is given elsewhere in the New Testament. 1. Ephesians 5:22-24, Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. 2. Colossians 3:18, Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. 3. Titus 2:4, 5, That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. IV. so, that, even if any of them, if they obey, believe not the word, A. These commands apply to wives regardless of whether their husbands are Christians or pagan unbelievers. V. they may without words, they may be won over, gained by the behavior of their wives; A. Actions most certainly speak louder than words. B. It has been said, I can t hear what you say because what you do thunders so loudly in my ears.

6 6 C. The world is watching us to see what differences our religion makes in our lives. D. Word could be the gospel or persuasive words spoken by the wife. IV. When they see, behold your chaste behavior, the purity coupled with fear, reverence of your lives. A. The reason given here for wives being submissive to husbands was that an exemplary lifestyle would lead unbelieving husbands to become Christians. B. Arguments, contention, conflict, selfishness, rebellion would certainly not convert anyone to Christ. C. Submission is to be in the Lord and does not include worshipping the husband s idols. D. Respect for husbands and reverence for God preach a powerful sermon. 1 Peter 3:3, Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; I. Whose adorning, Your beauty A. Isaiah 3:16-24, Moreover the LORD saith, Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, and making a tinkling with their feet: Therefore the LORD will smite with a scab the crown of the head of the daughters of Zion, and the LORD will discover their secret parts. In that day the Lord will take away the bravery of their tinkling ornaments about their feet, and their cauls, and their round tires like the moon, The chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers, The bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs, and the headbands, and the tablets, and the earrings, The rings, and

7 7 nose jewels, The changeable suits of apparel, and the mantles, and the wimples, and the crisping pins, The glasses, and the fine linen, and the hoods, and the vails. And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and burning instead of beauty. B. 1 Timothy 2:9, 10, In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. C. Clearly the proper attire for the woman is modesty rather than expensive garments, fancy coiffure, and jewelry, concluded Achtemeier via Black and Black. II. should not come from, let it not be the outward adornment, adorning of, such as A. For the Christian woman emphasis is placed on inner beauty of the soul, character and personality. B. Outward beauty and adornment are shallow and fleeting when compared with the eternal beauty of a righteous spirit. C. Attractiveness and neat appropriate attire are not condemned. III. that is, 1. There is no virtue in ugliness. 2. Reasonable use of cosmetics helps the look of things. 3. Christians are not to go to worship dressed in finery to get the praise of others. 4. Ostentatiousness is forbidden!

8 8 A. braiding the hair. B. wearing of jewels of gold. C. putting on of apparel, wearing of fine clothes. 1 Peter 3:4, But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. I. Instead, let your adorning be, it should be that of II. the hidden man (person) of the heart, your inner self, the secret person of the heart. A. Ephesians 3:16, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; III. in the uncorruptible apparel of, the unfading beauty of A. Character in this life will last eternally and will not be corrupted by physical death. B. a gentle, meek and quiet spirit 1. 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. C. which in the sight of God, D. is of great price, worth.

9 9 1. Black and Black note that a meek and quiet spirit may not be admired by society but it certainly is greatly honored by God in heaven. 1 Peter 3:5, For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: I. After this manner aforetime the holy women also, A. Christian women were to emulate the examples of Godly women of the New Testament. 1. Not all Old Testament women were to be imitated. 2. Remember Jezebel and Hosea s wife. II. who hoped in God, who put their hope in God III. adorned themselves, made themselves beautiful IV. being in subjection to their own husbands, They were submissive to their own husbands, 1 Peter 3:6, 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. I. like, as Sarah who obeyed Abraham, A. Remember Sarah demanded that Abraham cart out Hagar and Ishmael. 1. Genesis 21:8-14, And the child grew, and was weaned: and Abraham made a great feast the same day that Isaac was weaned. And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking. Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son:

10 10 for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac. And the thing was very grievous in Abraham's sight because of his son. And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called. And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed. And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba. B. However, overall Sarah was very respectful of Abraham. II. calling him lord, and called him her master A. Coffman noted that Sarah in her heart called Abraham lord, master evidencing the higher respect for him. III. whose children you are now, You are her daughters A. All Christianity of whatever race are the children of Abraham by faith. B. Physical Jews are no longer Spiritual children of Abraham by virtue of their being born of his lineage. 1. Galatians 3:29, And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. 2. John 8:39-41, They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham. But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham. Ye do the deeds of

11 11 your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God. C. Sarah was greatly respected by the Jewish people. 1. She was a role model. 2. Hebrews 1:11, They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; IV. if you do well, if you do what is right A. Being spiritual children of Abraham is conditional, contingent on doing well, doing what is right. 1. John 8:44, Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. 2. Being daughters of Abraham was contingent on following her example. V. and are not put to fear by any terror, do not give way to fear. A. Proverbs 3:25-26, Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken. B. Christian women were not to be frightened into departing from the faith by threats of persecution so prevalent in that day. 1 Peter 3:7, Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

12 12 I. You husbands, in like manner, in the same way, A. Obligations are reciprocal. 1. Wives have duties; to their husbands, husbands have duties toward their wives. II. dwell, co-habit with your wives according to knowledge, be considerate as you live with your wives, A. Husbands are not to be like Nabal: Wives are to be like Abigail Samuel 25:3, Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb Samuel 25:23-25, And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and lighted off the ass, and fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, And fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my lord, upon me let this iniquity be: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid. Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this man of Belial, even Nabal: for as his name is, so is he; Nabal is his name, and folly is with him: but I thine handmaid saw not the young men of my lord, whom thou didst send. III. giving honor unto the woman, as unto the weaker vessel, treat them with respect as the weaker partner A. Men may be physically stronger, but women live longer. B. Men in earlier years would walk country roads in front of their wives to fight off snakes, etc.

13 13 C. Could this have anything to do with women s living longer than men? IV. as being also joint-heirs of the grace of life; and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, A. The benefits of the gospel are bestowed upon men and women equally. B. Both are consequently joint-heirs of the gracious gift of life. C. Mason through Coffman defines life here to be physical life because non-christian husbands would not share with their Christian wives eternal lives unless they were converted. D. Scriptures: 1. Ephesians 5:22, Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 2. Galatians 3:28, There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. V. to the end that your prayers be not hindered, so that nothing will hinder your prayers. A. Kelcy via Coffman noted that one cannot be right with God when his relations with another human being are wrong. B. Faulty relationships with others hinder our relationship with God, Black and Black affirmed. 1. Matthew 5:23, 24, Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy

14 14 way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 2. Matthew 6:12, 14, And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 3. Mark 11:25, And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. Suffering for Doing Good 1 Peter 3:8, Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: I. Finally, A. The considerate relationships of the family are to be extended to all members of God s family. B. Finally indicates that Peter is now concluding his discussion of submission and shows the principle applies all Christians. III. be you all like-minded, all of you, live in harmony with one another; A. Christians are to be like-minded. 1. Like-minded: of like mind, of the same mind, concordant (in accord), an attitude of mind which strives for harmony. 2. Ephesians 4:3, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 3. If you know these things, happy are you if you do them. 4. Malice, envy, etc. are not to be named among Christians.

15 15 III. compassionate, A. Christians are to be compassionate. 1. Compassionate: empathetic, sympathetic. 2. We feel as others feel; we rejoice with them that rejoice, we weep with them that weep. 3. If you place two tuning forks side by side and set one into vibration, the other will begin to vibrate as well. IV. loving as brethren, A. Christians are to be loving as brethren. V. tenderhearted, 1. Loving as brethren (philadelphos) carries the idea that Christians are to love each other as brothers and sisters in a family. A. Christians are to be tenderhearted. VI. humbleminded 1. Tenderhearted: being tender and kind from the heart. 2. Ephesians 4:32, And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. A. Christians are to be humbleminded. 1. Humbleminded: having a modest opinion of one s self. 2. Humblemindness is not related to feeling inferior.

16 16 1 Peter 3:9, Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. I. not rendering evil for evil, do not repay evil with evil A. Pagans and Old Testament people were accustomed to returning evil for evil. 1. An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. 2. Christianity is markedly different. 3. Romans 12:7, Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. II. or reviling for reviling; or insult with insult, A. Christians do not render evil for evil, nor reviling for reviling. 1. We are not to retaliate with evil when evil is done to us. 2. Peter did not endorse the Old Testament an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth philosophy. 3. Matthew 5:38-42, Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. 4. Romans 12:17-21, Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

17 17 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good Thessalonians 5:15, See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. 6. Luke 6:27, 28, But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. III. but contrariwise with blessing; A. When Christians suffer injustices, they extend blessings to the offenders. 1. This is indeed a hard saying! 2. Christians are not to return evil for evil, but rather blessings (good) for evil. 3. Christians who return blessings for evil stand to receive heaven, the greatest blessing of all. IV. for hereunto were you called, because to this you were called. V. that you should inherit a blessing, so that you may inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:10-12, For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are

18 18 open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. I. For, A. Psalm 34:12-16, What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry. The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. B. Peter and David are here speaking of what it takes to have a wonderful life on this earth. C. This conduct also leads to eternal life. II. He that, whoever would love life, III. and see good days, IV. let him, must refrain his tongue from evil. V. and his lips that they speak no guile: and his lips from deceitful speech. A. Peter tells us how those who want to enjoy life and see happy/good days can achieve this goal. B. Christians are to refrain their tongues from evil and their lips that they speak no guile. 1. Refrain from slander and discourteous speaking one of another. 2. Let our life and lips confess The Holy Gospel we profess.

19 19 VI. He must, let him turn away from evil, and do good; A. Christians are to turn away from evil, and do good. 1. Romans 3:12, They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. 2. Proverbs 4:14-15, Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. VII. let him seek peace, and he must pursue it. A. Christians are to seek peace, and pursue it. 1. Those who really want to be happy must diligently long/work for peace. 2. Matthew 5:9, Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. VIII. For the eyes of the lord are upon the righteous A. Christians are happy because the eyes of the Lord watch over them and His ears are attentive to their prayers. 1. Evil people do not have God s watchful care and protection nor do they have the promise of answers to their prayers. 2. How can evil people be happy when God is against them? IX. and his ears are attentive unto their supplication, prayer, A. God s providential care watches over his people and listens to their prayers.

20 20 X. But the face of the Lord is against, upon them that do evil. A. God is the chief adversary of those who do evil. 1 Peter 3:13, And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? I. And who is he that will, is going to harm you, A. If Christians are truly zealous for good and live just as advised, very few people will set about to hurt us. B. Peter here begins, Coffman observed, to speak about the terrible persecutions they were going to experience. 1. No matter what their enemies did to their bodies, they could not destroy the souls of faithful disciples. 2. Luke 21:16-19, And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. But there shall not an hair of your head perish. In your patience possess ye your souls. II. if you be zealous for that which is good? if you are eager to do good? A. Zealous means: a diligent aspirant, a devoted adherent. B. Zealous is like boiling water heated to a fever pitch. C. Christians are generally safe. Few, except in times of orchestrated persecution, would be so diabolical as to harm people who live righteously. All people must watch out for criminals. D. Galatians 5:23, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

21 21 E. Even if you do suffer at the hands of evil doers, do not be afraid, do not let their threats cause you mental anguish and do not let these threats cause you to forsake your holy Christian dedication to God. 1 Peter 3:14, But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; I. But even if you should suffer for righteousness sake, for what is right, A. Execution, martyrdom are in view here. B. There are certain exceptions to the rule, No one harms the righteous person. II. blessed are you: A. 1 Peter 4:14, If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. B. Matthew 5:10, 11, Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. III. and fear not their fear, Do not fear what they fear, A. Do not fear what persecutors can inflict on you. B. Black and Black refer us to the NIV footnote: Do not fear their threats. (that is, their fear means the fear they try to produce in you ). IV. neither be troubled; do not be frightened. A. John 14:1, Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

22 22 1 Peter 3:15, But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: I. But hallow, sanctify, set apart in your hearts Christ as Lord; A. In times of trouble we are to set aside (sanctify) Christ in our hearts all the more. B. Christ is to be hallowed (regarded as holy) and venerated in good times and bad, regardless of what people do to us. C. Isaiah 8:13, Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. II. being ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you, always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you A. We are to constantly be ready/able/prepared to defend the faith as a part of sanctifying Christ in our hearts. 1. Apologetics is that branch of Christian theology given to the defense of the faith. 2. We need to be ready to defend our faith when brought into court and on all other occasions as well. III. a, the reason concerning the hope that is in you, for the hope that you have. A. Romans 8:24, For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? B. We hope for the resurrection and eternal life in heaven. C. Hope and faith are somewhat synonymous in this passage. IV. yet with meekness and fear, but do this with gentleness and respect.

23 23 A. Our Christian defense is to be with meekness (gentleness) and fear (respect), not with belligerent arrogance. 1. Matthew 4:4, But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 2. Galatians 6:1, Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 1 Peter 3:16, Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. I. Having a good conscience; keeping a clear conscience, A. Christians are to maintain a good, pure, clear, approving conscience by keeping our hearts and lives in agreement with God s will. B. Our conscience is not our guide. 1. Conscience is more like a thermometer than it is a thermostat. II. so that, wherein you are spoken against, those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ. A. If under these circumstances, we are reviled, spitefully abused, insulted, we know it is not our fault, but due to the evil people who resort to this kind of behavior. 1. Therefore, our consciences are clear before God. III. they may be put to shame, ashamed of their slander IV. who revile your good manner of life in Christ.

24 24 1 Peter 3:17, For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. I. For it is better, A. Some things are most certainly better than others. II. if the will of God should so will, if it is God s will, III. that you should suffer for well-doing, to suffer for doing good, A. If we have to suffer, it is better to suffer for doing right than for doing evil. B. Suffer here refers to death, martyrdom. C. Romans 8:17, And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. D. Much has through the centuries been written and said regarding the problem of human suffering. IV. than for evil-doing, than for doing evil. 1 Peter 3:18, For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: I. Because Christ also suffered for sins once, for Christ died for sins once for all A. The righteous Christ suffered, died on the cross, for the wicked, unrighteous. 1. We should not think it strange, therefore, if we also suffer at the hands of the wicked.

25 25 2. Jesus paid the eternal price for sin once for all. 3. Christ s suffering has perpetual validity and will never need to be repeated. B. Christ died on the cross only once; that s all that was needed. 1. Hebrews 9:26-28, For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. II. the righteous for the unrighteous, III. that he might bring us to God, to bring you to God, A. 1 Peter 1:18-19, Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: B. 1 Peter 2: 23, 24, Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. C. The purpose of Christ s death was to bring us to God, save our souls, lead us to a ship s captain through the storms safely to the harbor. D. Christ s flesh was destroyed. His spirit was made alive.

26 26 1. Christ died to bring us to God, not God to man! IV. being put to death in the flesh, he was put to death in the body upon the cross V. but made alive by in the Spirit; spirit; that is, by the resurrection from the dead. A. All three members of the God Head were instrumental in the resurrection of Christ. 1. Romans 1:4, And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: 2. Hebrews 9:24, For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 3. 1 Corinthians 6:14, And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power. 4. Ephesians 1:20, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. 1 Peter 3:19, By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; I. In which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison. A. In the spirit he preached to the spirits which were in prison 1. Jesus did not go to hell following his resurrection to give the lost a second chance to be saved.

27 27 2. In the Spirit he preached through Noah, Moses, Elijah, et. al. to the souls of their times. 3. In Peter s day these souls were in prison, (sheol), the grave. 4. When Jesus preached to them in the spirit through the prophets, they were imprisoned by sin. a. Luke 4:18, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, b. 2 Peter 2:5, And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; B. Nothing is said in this or any other Scripture that holds out any hope for lost sinners once they depart this life. 1 Peter 3:20, Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. I. that aforetime were disobedient, who disobeyed long ago II. when the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah III. while the ark was preparing, being built IV. wherein few, that is, eight souls, in it only a few people, eight in all A. In spite of all the preaching Noah did only eight (8) were saved.

28 28 1. This preacing covered a period of one hundred twenty (120) years. 2. Noah saved his family! V. were saved through water, A. Noah s family was saved by water in that it lifted them out of the sinful world and restored them to a cleansed world. 1. Noah really got sprinkled rained on 40 days and nights! 2. The flood separated the lost from the saved in Noah s day. 3. Baptism does the same thing in the present day. 1 Peter 3:21, The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: I. which also after a true likeness doth now save you, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also- A. Baptism now saves us! 1. John 3:5, Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 2. Acts 22:16, And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. 3. Acts 2:38, Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

29 29 II. even baptism, III. not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, not the removal of dirt from the body A. Baptism does not cleanse the flesh. IV. but the interrogation of a good conscience toward God, but the pledge of a good conscience toward God A. Baptism cleanses our souls because in baptism we contact the cleansing blood of Christ. B. Knowing we have done what God wants us to do, we have a good clear conscience before God. C. NASB renders this verse, And corresponding to that, baptism now saves your souls: it is not for the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. D. Few were saved in Noah s day and these few were saved by water. V. through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, it saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, A. Jesus died, was buried, and was resurrected. B. We partake of this by dying to sin through repentance, being buried in baptism, and then being raised to walk in newness of life. C. The power behind baptism is the resurrection of Christ. 1 Peter 3:22, Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

30 30 I. Who is on the right hand of God, and is at God s right hand A. Psalm 110:1, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. II. having gone into heaven; who has gone into heaven A. Matthew 28:18-20, And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. III. angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him, with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him. Conclusion: God s Promises God hath not always promised skies always blue Flower-strewn pathways all our lives through; God hath not promised sun without rain, Joy without sorrow, peace without pain. God hath not promised that we shall not know Toil and temptation, trouble and woe; He hath not told us we shall not bear Many a burden, many a care. God hath not promised smooth roads and wide, Swift, easy travel, needing no guide; Never a mountain rocky and steep, Never a river, turbid and deep.

31 31 But God hath promised strength for the day, Rest for the labor, light for the way, Grace for the trials, help from above, Unfailing sympathy, undying love. Annie Johnson Flint via Coffman

32 32 Questions 1 Peter 3: How has society changed in its attitude toward the role of husbands and wives since Peter wrote this chapter? Does this change anything for Christians? 2. As are to be subject to, are to be to their own in the. 3. Why should Christian wives be submissive to their own husbands? 4.,,, would certainly not anyone to. 5. How can a person be converted without the word? What is the word in question here in verses 1 and 2?

33 33 6. What should a submissive Christian wife do if requested by her unbelieving husband to go with him to worship in an idol temple? 7. How should Christian ladies dress, adorn themselves? 8. How should Christian ladies not dress, adorn themselves? 9. Is it sinful for Christian women to braid their hair, wear golden jewelry and/or wear fine clothes? Explain your answer.

34 By whom is a gentle, meek and quiet spirit most appreciated?..very little appreciated? 11. How did holy women of the past adorn themselves? Give examples. 12. How can Christian ladies become daughters of Abraham? 13. What are a husband s duties toward his wife?

35 How can it be said that women are weaker vessels when they live longer then men? 15. What can hinder prayer? 16. The of the are to be extended to of s. 17. Define like-minded. 18. Define compassionate.

36 Define tenderhearted. 20. Define humbleminded. 21. Christians are not to render for, nor for. 22. Do you love life and would you like to see good days? How can you achieve this good life? 23. Copy Psalm 34:12-16 here.

37 The of the are upon the, and his are unto their,, but the of the are against them that do. 25. If Christians are truly zealous for good, who will harm us? Remember Peter was martyred. Explain. 26. Define zealous. For what are we to be zealous? 27. How are we blessed if we are made to suffer for righteousness? 28. Christ is to be (regarded as ) and in and, regardless of what do to us.

38 When and how are we to defend the faith? 30. Is our conscience our guide? Explain. 31. How can we have a good conscience toward God? 32. What benefit is there to suffering for evil doing? Think.

39 What advantage is there to suffering for righteousness sake? 34. Some things are better than others. Name several pairs of things which are better and not good. 35. How and why did Christ suffer? What resulted from his suffering? 36. When did Jesus preach to spirits in prison? Who were these spririts? What was the result of this preaching?

40 Is there hope for unrepentant sinners that they might have another opportunity to be saved after death? Give reasons for your answer. 38. How did water save Noah s family? How does baptism save us? 39. How do we partake of the death burial and resurrection of Christ? 40. Where is Jesus now and who are subject to him?