Justin Houtz

Hi. I’m Justin. I write code and things but enough about that…

Let’s talk about Jesus.

  • Daily Bible Study

    Isaiah 40-42; 1 Peter 3

    DateVersionReading Plan
    July 24, 2026ESV (2016)ESV Life Journal Plan – 2026

    1 Peter 3

    Observation & Interpretation

    The chapter opens with Peter addressing women, that they are to be subject to their own husbands, respectful in their conduct, proper in their attire and adorning as this is very precious in the sight of God (1 Pet. 3:1-5). Comparison is made to Sarah and Abraham, how Sarah submitted to her own husband, calling him lord. The women of God are Sarah’s children and are to do good and not fear anything that is frightening (1 Pet. 3:6).

    Peter then addresses men and that they are to live with their wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the weaker vessel, since they are co-heirs with them of the grace of life. This they ought to do in order that their prayers may not be hindered (1 Pet. 3:7).

    Speaking to all of them now, Peter says that everyone is to have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind (1 Pet. 3:8). Evil is not to be repaid but, on the contrary, the aim is to bless, for to this they had been called, that they may obtain a blessing (1 Pet. 3:9). Peter quotes Ps. 34:12-16 “to confirm that God’s blessing rests on the one who refrains from evil deeds and evil speech, and practices righteousness.” (BBC).

    Peter continues by asking rhetorically who can harm them if they are zealous for what is good. Even if they suffer for righteousness sake, they will be blessed (1 Pet. 3:14). They are to have no fear but instead honor in their hearts Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense for the hope they have in them with gentleness, respect and a good conscience, so that those who revile them will be put to shame (1 Pet. 3:16). If a Christian is to suffer because it is God’s will, it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil (1 Pet. 3:17). Peter references the suffering of Christ who suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring them to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit (1 Pet. 3:18).

    Peter speaks of how Jesus went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison (1 Pet. 3:19). As the BBC points out, “Verses 19, 20 constitute one of the most puzzling and intriguing texts in the NT. It has been made the pretext for such unbiblical doctrines as purgatory on the one hand and universal salvation on the other.” (BBC). Peter also mentions Noah and God’s patience, that eight people were brought safely through water (1 Pet. 3:20). He tells of how this corresponds to baptism, that it saves and removes dirt from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God and all is in subjection to Him (1 Pet. 3:21-22).

    Application

    It is heartening to be refreshed in the kind of conduct by which we are to live as men and women of God. We have been created with distinct functions and roles, but all are to exemplify Godliness through tender hearts and humble minds. May the people of God be blessed in their earnest pursuit to bless others in Christlike love.

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