1 Peter 1:15

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

But {G235} as {G2596} he which hath called {G2564} you {G5209} is holy {G40}, so {G2532} be {G1096} ye {G846} holy {G40} in {G1722} all {G3956} manner of conversation {G391};

On the contrary, following the Holy One who called you, become holy yourselves in your entire way of life;

But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do,

but like as he who called you is holy, be ye yourselves also holy in all manner of living;

Commentary on 1 Peter 1:15 (KJV)

This verse is a powerful call to believers to align their lives with the character of God who has saved them. It immediately follows Peter's exhortation for believers to be obedient children, not conforming to their former lusts, but setting their hope fully on the grace to be brought at Christ's return.

Context

The Apostle Peter is writing to scattered believers (likely in Asia Minor) who are facing various trials and persecutions (1 Peter 1:6). He begins by reminding them of their glorious salvation, their living hope through Christ's resurrection, and their inheritance kept in heaven (1 Peter 1:3-5). He emphasizes that their faith is being tested and purified. Before this verse, he urges them to prepare their minds, be sober, and hope completely in God's grace (1 Peter 1:13), living as obedient children who do not revert to their former way of life driven by ignorance and desires (1 Peter 1:14). Verse 15 then provides the positive command that contrasts with the former way of life.

Key Themes

  • God's Holiness: The foundational reason for the command is God's own nature. He is the standard of holiness.
  • The Believer's Calling: Believers are called by a holy God, implying they are called to share in His character. This calling is often linked to God's purpose for His people (Romans 8:28).
  • The Command to Be Holy: This is not a suggestion but a direct imperative for those who belong to God. It echoes Old Testament commands given to Israel (Leviticus 11:44, quoted in the next verse, 1 Peter 1:16).
  • Holiness in All Aspects of Life: "In all manner of conversation" signifies that this holiness is not limited to specific religious acts but must permeate every area of a believer's life and conduct.

Linguistic Insights

The key terms offer deeper meaning:

  • Holy (Greek: hagios): Means "set apart," "sacred," "consecrated." When applied to God, it speaks of His absolute purity, moral perfection, and distinctness from all creation. When applied to believers, it means being set apart for God's purposes and reflecting His moral character.
  • Conversation (Greek: anastrophe): In the KJV, this word often translates to "conduct," "behavior," or "manner of life," not just verbal speech as the modern English word implies. Peter is calling for holiness that is evident in one's entire lifestyle and interactions. This is similar to the usage in Philippians 1:27.

Reflection and Application

This verse challenges believers to live lives that are distinctly different from the world and their former selves. Because God is holy, those who are called by Him must pursue holiness. This involves a conscious effort to live in a way that is set apart for God, reflecting His purity and righteousness. It's not just about avoiding sin, but actively pursuing Christlikeness in our thoughts, words, and actions – in "all manner of conversation" or conduct. Pursuing holiness is essential for seeing God (Hebrews 12:14) and is a natural outflow of being transformed by His grace.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Matthew 5:48

    Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

  • 2 Corinthians 7:1

    ¶ Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

  • Hebrews 12:14

    Follow peace with all [men], and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:

  • James 3:13

    ¶ Who [is] a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

  • Ephesians 5:1

    ¶ Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

  • Ephesians 5:2

    And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

  • 1 John 3:3

    And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
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