1 Peter 1:5

KJV

Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

KJV (with Strong's)

Who {G3588} are kept {G5432} by {G1722} the power {G1411} of God {G2316} through {G1223} faith {G4102} unto {G1519} salvation {G4991} ready {G2092} to be revealed {G601} in {G1722} the last {G2078} time {G2540}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Meanwhile, through trusting, you are being protected by God’s power for a deliverance ready to be revealed at the Last Time.

Berean Standard Bible

who through faith are shielded by God’s power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

American Standard Version

who by the power of God are guarded through faith unto a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 1:5 offers profound assurance to believers, emphasizing that their salvation is not a precarious state but a divinely secured reality. It highlights that those who have embraced faith in Christ are actively guarded by God's omnipotent power, ensuring their perseverance and ultimate glorification, which awaits its full and glorious revelation in the eschatological future.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Peter's opening salutation and blessing, following his declaration of the "lively hope" believers possess through the resurrection of Jesus Christ ([1 Peter 1:3](/1_peter/1-3 "1 Peter 1:3 - The Living Hope")). Peter has just described the "inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - The Incorruptible Inheritance")). Verse 5 then acts as the crucial link, explaining *how* this glorious, heavenly inheritance is secured for its rightful heirs. It provides the mechanism of divine preservation, offering comfort and stability to a scattered and suffering audience, assuring them that their future is divinely guaranteed despite present trials. The flow moves from the source of hope (resurrection), to the object of hope (inheritance), to the security of the heirs (divine keeping).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter addresses "strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia" ([1 Peter 1:1](/1_peter/1-1 "1 Peter 1:1 - Peter's Greeting to the Exiles")), referring to Jewish and Gentile Christians living as exiles or sojourners in various Roman provinces of Asia Minor. These believers faced significant social ostracism, economic hardship, and nascent persecution for their faith. They were often misunderstood, slandered, and pressured to conform to pagan societal norms. In such a climate, the assurance of divine protection and a secure future inheritance would have been immensely encouraging. The concept of being "kept" by a powerful entity would resonate with people living under Roman imperial authority, but Peter redirects their gaze to the ultimate, divine sovereign power, God Himself, who guarantees their ultimate salvation, a stark contrast to the fleeting powers of this world.
* **Key Themes:** First Peter 1:5 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the epistle. Firstly, **Divine Preservation and Security** is paramount; the verse asserts that believers are not left to their own devices but are actively "kept by the power of God," underscoring God's faithfulness and omnipotence in sustaining His people. This theme provides a bedrock of assurance amidst the trials discussed later in the letter (e.g., [1 Peter 4:12-19](/1_peter/4-12-19 "1 Peter 4:12-19 - Suffering for Christ")). Secondly, the **Essential Role of Faith** is highlighted as the means through which believers access and experience this divine keeping. It is "through faith" that salvation is apprehended, emphasizing an ongoing reliance on God, not just a one-time decision (compare with [Hebrews 11:6](/hebrews/11-6 "Hebrews 11:6 - Faith is Essential")). Finally, the verse points to the **Future Revelation of Salvation**, indicating that while believers possess salvation in the present (justification, new life), its full glory and experiential reality (glorification) are yet to be fully manifested "in the last time." This eschatological hope provides a powerful motivation for endurance and a firm anchor for the soul, a theme echoed throughout the New Testament, such as in [Romans 8:24-25](/romans/8-24-25 "Romans 8:24-25 - Hope for Future Glory").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **kept (Greek, _phrouréō'_):** From G5432, meaning "to guard, protect, garrison." This is a military term, evoking the image of soldiers guarding a city or fortress. It implies an active, strong, and vigilant defense. Believers are not merely passively preserved but are actively defended and secured by God's power, like a garrison protecting its inhabitants from external threats. This term underscores the active and intentional nature of God's preservation.
* **power (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** From G1411, referring to "force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power." This word signifies inherent strength, might, and ability. It is the source from which we derive English words like "dynamite" or "dynamic." When applied to God, it speaks of His omnipotence – His limitless capacity to act, to protect, and to bring His purposes to fruition. It is not a passive power but an active, effective, and often miraculous might.
* **revealed (Greek, _apokalýptō'_):** From G601, meaning "to take off the cover, i.e., disclose." This word is the root of "apocalypse," signifying an unveiling or disclosure. It suggests that salvation, in its fullest and most glorious form, is currently hidden or veiled, but will be fully brought into the light and made manifest at a future, appointed time. This emphasizes the eschatological dimension of salvation, where its full scope and splendor will be fully unveiled.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Who are kept by the power of God":** This clause establishes the divine agent and the means of preservation. The "who" refers back to the "you" in [1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - The Incorruptible Inheritance") – the believers for whom the inheritance is reserved. The passive voice "are kept" emphasizes that this is God's action, not human effort. The term "kept" (phrouréō) conveys a military-grade guarding, a garrisoning of the soul. This protection is not by human strength or will, but by the "power of God" (dýnamis), His inherent, dynamic, and omnipotent might. This is the bedrock of the believer's security, an active, divine guardianship.
* **"through faith":** This phrase identifies the human instrument or channel through which God's keeping power operates. While God's power is the ultimate cause of preservation, faith is the necessary and ongoing response of the believer. It is not that faith *earns* the keeping, but that faith is the posture of trust and reliance by which one remains connected to and experiences God's preserving power. It underscores the active, continuous nature of trust in God throughout the Christian life.
* **"unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time":** This final clause specifies the purpose and ultimate destination of this divine keeping, as well as its timing. The "salvation" (sōtēría) here refers to the full, consummate, and glorious experience of redemption, often termed glorification, which is yet to be fully realized. It is not merely a past event (justification) or a present process (sanctification) but a future consummation. This salvation is "ready" (hétoimos), implying it is prepared and awaiting its appointed moment. This moment is "to be revealed" (apokalýptō), meaning it will be unveiled or disclosed, signifying a public and undeniable manifestation. This revelation will occur "in the last time" (éschatos kairós), referring to the eschatological period, the culmination of God's redemptive plan, typically understood as the return of Christ and the ushering in of the eternal state.

#### Literary Devices
Peter employs several powerful literary devices in this verse to convey his message of assurance. The use of **Metaphor** is prominent in the word "kept" (phrouréō), which carries the military imagery of a garrison guarding a fortress. This vivid metaphor assures believers that their spiritual security is not fragile but is under the vigilant, active, and powerful defense of God Himself, much like a well-fortified city. Peter also uses **Theological Language** to articulate profound truths succinctly, such as "power of God" and "salvation," which are central concepts in Christian theology. The phrase "ready to be revealed in the last time" employs **Eschatological Language**, pointing to the future and the ultimate consummation of God's plan, creating a sense of anticipation and ultimate hope. Finally, the entire verse serves as a powerful **Affirmation** and **Assurance**, designed to comfort and strengthen believers facing trials by reminding them of the unshakeable foundation of their faith and future.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Peter 1:5 encapsulates profound theological truths concerning the nature of salvation and God's sovereign care. It speaks directly to the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints, affirming that those truly saved are kept by divine power, not by their own fluctuating strength or perfect performance. This keeping is not a passive preservation but an active, dynamic guardianship that secures the believer's ultimate arrival at glorification. While God's power is the ultimate cause, human faith is the indispensable means by which this keeping is appropriated and experienced, highlighting the beautiful interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility in the Christian life. The verse also underscores the "already-not-yet" tension of salvation: believers are already saved, possessing new life and a secure inheritance, yet the full, glorious revelation of their salvation awaits the eschatological "last time," providing an enduring hope that anchors the soul amidst present realities.

* [John 10:27-29](/john/10-27-29 "Jesus' Sheep are Secure")
* [Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "God Will Complete His Work")
* [Jude 1:24](/jude/1-24 "God is Able to Keep You From Falling")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Peter 1:5 offers immense comfort and encouragement for believers navigating the complexities and challenges of life. In a world fraught with uncertainty, personal failures, and external pressures, this verse serves as a potent reminder that our ultimate security rests not on our own merits or fluctuating efforts, but on the unshakeable, omnipotent power of God Himself. This truth should foster profound peace, enabling us to face trials with resilience, knowing that our salvation is divinely guaranteed. It encourages perseverance in faith, understanding that our trust in God is the channel through which His keeping power flows. Embracing this truth liberates us from anxiety about our eternal destiny and empowers us to live confidently, pursuing holiness and mission, as we eagerly await the full and glorious unveiling of the salvation that is already prepared for us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the military imagery of "kept by the power of God" deepen your understanding of divine protection in your life?**
* **In what ways does your ongoing "faith" serve as the channel for experiencing God's preserving power today?**
* **How does the future promise of "salvation ready to be revealed in the last time" impact your perspective on present difficulties and your hope for the future?**

### FAQ

**Does this verse teach eternal security, or the perseverance of the saints?**

Answer: Yes, 1 Peter 1:5 strongly supports the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints, often referred to as eternal security. The Greek word for "kept" (phrouréō) implies an active, military-grade guarding by God's power. This divine action ensures that believers, who maintain their faith, will indeed reach the ultimate state of salvation. It emphasizes that the believer's security rests not on their own ability to perfectly persevere, but on God's unwavering power to preserve them "unto salvation." This aligns with other New Testament passages that speak of God's faithfulness in completing the work He began, such as [Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "God Will Complete His Work").

**What does "the last time" refer to in this verse?**

Answer: "The last time" (éschatos kairós) refers to the eschatological period, the final epoch in God's redemptive plan. In biblical theology, this generally points to the time inaugurated by Christ's first coming and consummated by His second coming. Specifically in this context, it refers to the definitive and public revelation of salvation at the return of Jesus Christ. While believers already experience salvation in a present sense (justification, new life), its full glory, scope, and experiential reality—often called glorification—are yet to be fully unveiled when Christ returns to establish His eternal kingdom. This future event is the ultimate hope for believers, as seen in passages like [Titus 2:13](/titus/2-13 "Looking for the Blessed Hope").

**How do God's power and human faith work together in this verse?**

Answer: This verse beautifully illustrates the synergy between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. God's "power" (dýnamis) is the ultimate source and active agent of preservation; it is God who does the keeping. However, this divine keeping operates "through faith." Faith (pístis) is the human response of trust and reliance on God, the channel through which His preserving power is accessed and experienced. It is not that faith *earns* the keeping, but that faith is the necessary posture for receiving and remaining in God's protective care. Without faith, one cannot connect to God's saving power. This dynamic is consistent with the broader biblical teaching that salvation is by grace through faith, as articulated in [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Salvation by Grace Through Faith").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Peter 1:5 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who is the very embodiment and guarantee of the salvation it describes. The "lively hope" mentioned in [1 Peter 1:3](/1_peter/1-3 "1 Peter 1:3 - The Living Hope") is made possible solely by Christ's resurrection from the dead, which conquered sin and death, securing the "inheritance incorruptible" for believers. It is through Christ's finished work on the cross that the "power of God" is unleashed for salvation, and it is through faith *in Him* that individuals are "kept" and secured. Jesus Himself is the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and His sacrifice is the foundation of our redemption. Furthermore, the "salvation ready to be revealed in the last time" points directly to Christ's glorious return, when He will fully consummate His kingdom and bring His elect into their eternal inheritance. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end of this redemptive story ([Revelation 22:13](/revelation/22-13 "Revelation 22:13 - Jesus, the Alpha and Omega")), the One who began a good work in us and will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus ([Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "Philippians 1:6 - God Will Complete His Work")). Thus, our being "kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation" is entirely centered on, accomplished by, and revealed in Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Philippians 1:6

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [it] until the day of Jesus Christ:

Ephesians 2:8

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:

Romans 8:31

¶ What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?

Romans 8:39

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

2 Thessalonians 2:13

¶ But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:

2 Thessalonians 2:14

Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Job 19:25

For I know [that] my redeemer liveth, and [that] he shall stand at the latter [day] upon the earth: