1 Peter 1:4

To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

To {G1519} an inheritance {G2817} incorruptible {G862}, and {G2532} undefiled {G283}, and {G2532} that fadeth not away {G263}, reserved {G5083} in {G1722} heaven {G3772} for {G1519} you {G5209},

to an inheritance that cannot decay, spoil or fade, kept safe for you in heaven.

and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you,

unto an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Peter 1:4 KJV

The Apostle Peter, writing to scattered believers facing persecution, immediately shifts their focus from present trials to the glorious future God has prepared for them. Verse 1 Peter 1:4 describes the nature of the incredible inheritance that awaits all who are born again, building directly on the "lively hope" introduced in the preceding verse. This passage offers profound comfort and assurance, highlighting the permanence and purity of God's promises.

Key Themes

  • The Nature of the Inheritance: Unlike any earthly inheritance, which is subject to decay, defilement, or loss, the believer's inheritance is divinely perfected.
    • Incorruptible: This signifies that it cannot decay, perish, or be destroyed. Earthly treasures rust, rot, or are consumed, but this spiritual inheritance is immune to the ravages of time and corruption.
    • Undefiled: It is absolutely pure, untainted by sin, evil, or human imperfection. There is no stain or blemish upon it, reflecting the holiness of God who bestows it.
    • That Fadeth Not Away: It retains its beauty, value, and vibrancy eternally. It will never diminish, lose its luster, or become obsolete, a stark contrast to all worldly possessions that are fleeting.
  • The Security of the Inheritance: The phrase "reserved in heaven for you" provides ultimate assurance. This inheritance is not held in an earthly bank, susceptible to theft or economic downturns, but is securely kept in God's perfect dwelling place. It is divinely guarded and guaranteed for its rightful heirs, providing immense peace and stability for believers. This contrasts sharply with earthly treasures that can be corrupted or stolen.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Incorruptible" (Greek: aphthartos): This word emphasizes imperishability and immunity to decay. It speaks to the eternal and unchanging nature of the inheritance.
  • "Undefiled" (Greek: amiantos): Signifies purity, spotlessness, and being untainted. It conveys a moral and spiritual cleanness, free from any blemish.
  • "Fadeth not away" (Greek: amarantos): Literally means "unfading" or "ever-blooming." It is the root of the English word "amaranth," a mythical flower that never wilts. This term beautifully illustrates the perpetual freshness and enduring glory of the inheritance.

Practical Application

This verse offers profound encouragement and a vital shift in perspective for believers today:

  • Hope in Adversity: Knowing that an incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading inheritance awaits provides strength and perseverance amidst life's trials and tribulations. Our ultimate destiny is secure, regardless of present circumstances.
  • Eternal Perspective: It encourages believers to live with an eternal mindset, valuing spiritual realities over temporary earthly gains. Our true treasure is not here but "laid up in heaven".
  • Motivation for Purity: The pure nature of the inheritance should motivate believers to pursue holiness and live lives that reflect the purity of their future dwelling and their divine inheritance, as Peter encourages later in this chapter.
  • Divine Assurance: The fact that this inheritance is "reserved in heaven for you" underscores God's faithfulness and absolute commitment to His children. We are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, and our future is divinely secured.
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Cross-References

  • Revelation 21:27 (22 votes)

    And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.

  • Hebrews 9:15 (18 votes)

    ¶ And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

  • 1 Peter 5:4 (15 votes)

    And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

  • 2 Timothy 4:8 (13 votes)

    Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

  • Colossians 1:5 (10 votes)

    For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;

  • Matthew 25:34 (9 votes)

    Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

  • Isaiah 40:7 (8 votes)

    The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the LORD bloweth upon it: surely the people [is] grass.