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. 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: (1 Peter 3:8-15 KJV)
Called to Blessing
The apostle now moves from specific to more general instructions.
He begins by teaching how Christians and friends should treat one another. He encourages believers to be united in belief and practice, especially since many of them were suffering at that time. They should show compassion, love each other as brothers and sisters, pity those in distress, and be courteous to all (1 Peter 3:8).
Christians should aim for unity in essential beliefs, genuine affection, and consistent practice (Romans 15:5). While complete agreement may not be possible, believers should show compassion and love, avoiding persecution or hatred of one another.
Christianity requires compassion for those in distress and kindness to all. Only someone openly wicked or completely apostate is beyond the reach of ordinary courtesy (1 Corinthians 5:11; 2 John 1:10-11).
The apostle also addresses how to deal with enemies. Knowing that Christians would be hated for Christ’s sake, he urges them not to repay evil for evil or insult for insult. Instead, when others insult them, they should respond with blessing. Christ, by His word and example, has called them to bless those who curse them and has promised them an eternal inheritance, though undeserved (1 Peter 3:9).
To return evil for evil or insult for insult is unchristian. While the government may punish wrongdoers and private individuals may seek lawful remedies, personal revenge—through duels, verbal abuse, or covert harm—is forbidden (Proverbs 20:22; Luke 6:27; Romans 12:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:15). To insult is to speak in bitter, harsh, or scornful terms. However, ministers may rebuke sin firmly and preach against the evils of their time without being guilty of railing (Isaiah 56:10; Zephaniah 3:3; Acts 20:29).
The teachings of Christ require returning blessing for insult (Matthew 5:44). We are to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who persecute us. While we must not approve of their sin, we should fulfill all obligations of justice and charity.
A Christian’s calling brings both great privileges and difficult responsibilities. All true believers will inherit a blessing—they already enjoy it in part, and will fully receive it in the life to come.
The apostle then gives a wise prescription for a peaceful, happy life in a hostile world (1 Peter 3:10, quoting Psalm 34:12-14): If you desire a long, prosperous life, guard your speech from harsh, harmful, or dishonest words. Avoid harming others and instead pursue peace—even when it withdraws from you. This will help you live at peace with others.
Believers under both the Old and New Covenants were held to the same moral duties. Avoiding deceit and controlling the tongue were as important in David’s day as they are now. Seeking peace is the way to contentment and well-being in this life and the next. Christians must not only accept peace when it is offered but actively seek it out, even when it’s withheld.
The apostle assures believers that such patient, peaceful behavior will not expose them to more danger, for God is on their side. “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous” (1 Peter 3:12); He watches over them with care, governs their lives, and listens to their prayers. If they are wronged, they can turn to their heavenly Father, who hears their cries and defends them. But “the face of the Lord is against those who do evil”; God will oppose and judge them more thoroughly than humans ever could.
Though the Bible uses language like “eyes,” “ears,” and “face,” we should understand these as figures of speech for God’s awareness, care, and judgment. God has a special affection for His people and always hears the prayers of the faithful (John 4:31; 1 John 5:14; Hebrews 4:16). Though infinitely good, He hates unrepentant sin and will execute justice against those who persist in evil.
This humble, patient behavior is further encouraged by two points:
First, it is usually the best way to avoid harm: “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” (1 Peter 3:13). Generally, very few people are so evil as to harm those who live innocent, helpful lives.
Second, even if suffering comes, it is a privilege: “If you suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed” (1 Peter 3:14; Matthew 5:10). Don’t be afraid of threats or hostile attacks. Following what is good is the best way to stay safe. Suffering for righteousness—whether for truth, conscience, or duty—is an honor. The comfort outweighs the pain, the glory outweighs the shame, and the reward surpasses the loss.
Christians should not fear their enemies. Their enemies are God’s enemies. His face is against them, His power is above them, and they can do nothing without His permission.
Instead of fearing people, “sanctify the Lord God in your hearts” (1 Peter 3:15; Isaiah 8:12-13). Fear God, not those who can only kill the body (Luke 12:4-5). To sanctify God in the heart is to revere Him deeply, trust His power and promises, submit to His wisdom, imitate His holiness, and give Him due glory. We also sanctify God before others when our behavior encourages them to honor Him (Leviticus 10:3).
When this reverence for God is firmly rooted in your heart, be prepared to give a defense for your faith—“to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” Be ready and willing to explain what kind of hope sustains you through hardship (1 Peter 3:15).
First, fearing God is the best defense against fearing suffering. Second, Christian faith and hope are reasonable and defensible. They are not mere feelings but divinely revealed truths that meet the deepest needs of sinners and point to the glory of God in Christ. Third, every believer should be ready to explain their hope—whether to a magistrate demanding a confession or to another Christian seeking to learn. This defense may be required more than once, so Christians should always be prepared. Finally, these responses should be made “with gentleness and respect”—with humility, reverence for God, and a careful attitude toward others.