1 Peter 2:14

KJV

Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.

KJV (with Strong's)

Or {G1535} unto governors {G2232}, as {G5613} unto them that are sent {G3992} by {G1223} him {G846} for {G1519}{G3303} the punishment {G1557} of evildoers {G2555}, and {G1161} for the praise {G1868} of them that do well {G17}.

Complete Jewish Bible

or to governors as being sent by him to punish wrongdoers and praise those who do what is good.

Berean Standard Bible

or to governors as those sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right.

American Standard Version

or unto governors, as sent by him for vengeance on evil-doers and for praise to them that do well.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
provides a foundational principle for Christian engagement with civil authority, asserting that governors, as agents "sent by him" (the supreme ruler, ultimately God), serve a dual divine purpose: to administer justice by punishing evildoers and to commend and reward those who do good. This verse clarifies the God-ordained function of government in maintaining societal order and promoting righteousness, thereby guiding believers in their conduct as responsible citizens.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Peter's broader exhortation to believers on how to live honorably in a pagan society, specifically addressing their posture towards governing authorities. It directly follows [1 Peter 2:13](/1_peter/2-13 "1 Peter 2:13 - Submission to Every Ordinance"), which commands submission to "every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake," starting with the king as supreme. [Verse 14](/1_peter/2-14 "1 Peter 2:14 - The Role of Governors") then elaborates on the function of the "governors" who operate under this supreme authority, providing the theological rationale for such submission. This instruction is framed within Peter's larger argument that believers, as a "chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen People")), are to live such exemplary lives that their "good works" silence the ignorance of foolish men ([1 Peter 2:15](/1_peter/2-15 "1 Peter 2:15 - Silencing Ignorance")) and bring glory to God.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early Christians to whom Peter wrote lived under the Roman Empire, a vast, powerful, and often pagan government. While the empire provided relative stability and infrastructure, it also demanded emperor worship and frequently persecuted Christians. Governors (proconsuls, legates, or procurators) were regional administrators appointed by the emperor to maintain order, collect taxes, and administer justice in their provinces. For Christians, navigating their allegiance to Christ and their duties as Roman subjects was a complex challenge. Peter's instruction here is remarkable because it calls for submission even to a government that might be hostile, recognizing its divinely appointed role in maintaining order and justice, regardless of its spiritual disposition. This perspective would have been counter-cultural for some who might have viewed the Roman state as inherently evil.

* **Key Themes:** Several major theological and narrative themes are evident in [1 Peter 2:14](/1_peter/2-14 "1 Peter 2:14 - The Role of Governors") and the surrounding text. Firstly, the **Divine Mandate of Government** is a central theme; Peter asserts that civil authorities, even pagan ones, are "sent by him" (referring to the king or supreme authority, who himself is ultimately permitted by God) to fulfill a specific divine purpose. This echoes the teaching found in [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Governing Authorities Ordained by God"), which states that "there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God." Secondly, the **Purpose of Civil Authority** is clearly defined: "for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well." This highlights the essential role of government in maintaining law and order, administering justice, and promoting societal well-being. It serves as a deterrent to crime and an encouragement to righteous living. Lastly, the theme of **Christian Citizenship and Witness** is paramount. By submitting to and respecting these authorities, believers demonstrate their obedience to God and their commitment to good conduct. This honorable living serves as a powerful testimony to the world, countering false accusations and bringing glory to God, as further emphasized in [1 Peter 2:15](/1_peter/2-15 "1 Peter 2:15 - Silencing Ignorance by Good Deeds").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **governors (Greek, _hēgemṓn_):** (G2232) This term refers to a leader, chief person, or ruler of a province. In the Roman context, it denoted various types of provincial administrators, such as proconsuls, procurators, or legates, who were subordinate to the emperor. Peter's use of this term emphasizes the delegated nature of their authority, indicating that they function as agents of a higher power.
* **punishment (Greek, _ekdíkēsis_):** (G1557) This word signifies vindication or retribution. In the context of government, it refers to the execution of justice, the imposition of penalties for wrongdoing, and the upholding of legal order. It highlights the punitive aspect of governmental authority, designed to deter crime and maintain societal peace through accountability.
* **praise (Greek, _épainos_):** (G1868) Meaning laudation or commendation, this term refers to approval or recognition. It indicates that just governments are not only meant to suppress evil but also to affirm and reward good behavior. This dual function underscores the government's role in fostering a moral and orderly society by acknowledging and encouraging virtuous conduct.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Or unto governors,"**: This clause continues the thought from [1 Peter 2:13](/1_peter/2-13 "1 Peter 2:13 - Submission to Every Ordinance"), specifying another category of human authority to whom Christians are to submit. "Governors" refers to the various regional administrators who exercised power under the ultimate authority of the "king" (emperor).
* **"as unto them that are sent by him"**: This phrase clarifies the nature of the governors' authority. They are not self-appointed but are "sent" (dispatched, delegated) by the supreme ruler (the king mentioned in [verse 13](/1_peter/2-13 "1 Peter 2:13 - Submission to Every Ordinance")). Theologically, this implies that even the authority of the supreme ruler is ultimately derived from God, making these governors, by extension, instruments in God's providential ordering of society.
* **"for the punishment of evildoers,"**: This specifies the first and primary function of these delegated authorities. They are established to enforce laws, to bring justice upon those who commit evil deeds, and to deter crime. This highlights the government's essential role in maintaining order and protecting the innocent by holding wrongdoers accountable.
* **"and for the praise of them that do well."**: This describes the second, equally important function of civil authority. Beyond punishing evil, governors are also meant to commend, approve, and reward those who act virtuously and contribute positively to society. This dual purpose—punishing bad and praising good—reveals the comprehensive nature of God's design for civil governance, aiming to foster a just and orderly environment.

#### Literary Devices
[1 Peter 2:14](/1_peter/2-14 "1 Peter 2:14 - The Role of Governors") employs clear **Antithesis** and **Parallelism** to articulate the dual function of civil authority. The contrasting pairs "punishment of evildoers" and "praise of them that do well" create a balanced and memorable statement, emphasizing the comprehensive scope of governmental responsibility. This structure highlights the two poles of justice: retribution for wrongdoing and commendation for righteousness. The verse also implicitly uses **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche** by referring to "governors" as representatives of the entire system of civil law and order, embodying the broader concept of state authority. Furthermore, the concept of authorities being "sent by him" carries a profound **Symbolism** of divine delegation, underscoring that even secular governance operates within God's overarching sovereign plan for humanity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The theological significance of [1 Peter 2:14](/1_peter/2-14 "1 Peter 2:14 - The Role of Governors") is profound, establishing a clear biblical framework for understanding the divine institution of civil government. It asserts that governing authorities, regardless of their religious or moral standing, are not merely human constructs but are divinely ordained instruments for maintaining order, administering justice, and promoting societal well-being. This perspective elevates the role of government beyond mere human expediency, imbuing it with a sacred purpose: to restrain evil and encourage good. For believers, this means that submission to legitimate authority is not just a pragmatic choice but an act of obedience to God, contributing to a peaceful environment where the gospel can flourish. It challenges the notion that Christians should withdraw from civic life, instead calling them to be exemplary citizens who, through their good conduct, demonstrate the transformative power of their faith.

* [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1-7 "Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Governing Authorities"): Paul's comprehensive teaching on the divine institution of governing authorities, reiterating that "there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God," and that rulers are God's ministers for good, bearing the sword to execute wrath upon evildoers.
* [Titus 3:1](/titus/3-1 "Titus 3:1 - Be Subject to Rulers and Authorities"): A concise command for believers to "be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work," reinforcing the call for civic obedience.
* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons"): This verse from the Old Testament affirms God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly rulers, stating that "He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings," providing the foundational theological premise for Peter's assertion that governors are "sent by him."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Peter 2:14](/1_peter/2-14 "1 Peter 2:14 - The Role of Governors") offers timeless guidance for believers navigating their role in society, particularly concerning their interaction with civil government. It calls us to a posture of respectful submission, recognizing that even imperfect human authorities serve a God-ordained purpose in maintaining order and justice. This means actively striving to be law-abiding, tax-paying, and peace-loving citizens, not out of fear of punishment, but "for the Lord's sake," as an act of worship and witness. Our exemplary conduct, marked by integrity and goodness, becomes a powerful testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel, silencing the criticisms of those who might malign our faith. Furthermore, understanding government's dual purpose—to punish evildoers and praise those who do well—empowers us to pray for our leaders, advocate for justice, and support policies that align with these divine objectives, contributing positively to the common good.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways can I demonstrate respectful submission to governing authorities in my daily life?**
* **How does my conduct as a citizen reflect or obscure the transforming power of the Gospel to those around me?**
* **Considering the dual role of government (punishing evil, praising good), how can I pray more effectively for my local and national leaders?**
* **What opportunities do I have to "do well" in my community, thereby contributing to the "praise" that government is designed to offer?**

### FAQ
**What if the government is unjust or corrupt? Does this verse still apply?**

Answer: Yes, the principle of submission in [1 Peter 2:14](/1_peter/2-14 "1 Peter 2:14 - The Role of Governors") generally applies even to imperfect or corrupt governments. Peter wrote to Christians living under the Roman Empire, a system that was often brutal, pagan, and unjust, yet he still commanded submission. The emphasis is on the *divine mandate* of government to maintain order and justice, not on the moral perfection of its rulers. Our submission is "for the Lord's sake" ([1 Peter 2:13](/1_peter/2-13 "1 Peter 2:13 - Submission for the Lord's Sake")), meaning it is an act of obedience to God, not an endorsement of every governmental action. However, this submission is not absolute; if a government commands something that directly contradicts God's clear commands (e.g., [Acts 5:29](/acts/5-29 "Acts 5:29 - Obeying God Rather Than Men")), then "we must obey God rather than men."

**Does "submission" mean Christians should never protest or advocate for change?**

Answer: No, "submission" does not preclude righteous advocacy or protest within legal and moral frameworks. Biblical submission primarily refers to respecting authority, obeying laws, and living peaceably. It does not mean passive acceptance of all injustice. Christians are called to be salt and light, to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God ([Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly")). This can involve speaking out against unrighteousness, advocating for the oppressed, and working for systemic change, provided it is done respectfully, non-violently, and in a manner consistent with Christian character and law. The goal is to promote the government's God-given purpose of punishing evildoers and praising those who do well.

**How does this verse relate to Jesus' teaching about "rendering unto Caesar"?**

Answer: [1 Peter 2:14](/1_peter/2-14 "1 Peter 2:14 - The Role of Governors") aligns perfectly with Jesus' teaching to "render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's" ([Matthew 22:21](/matthew/22-21 "Matthew 22:21 - Render to Caesar")). Jesus acknowledged the legitimate authority of the state (represented by Caesar) in matters like taxation, while simultaneously upholding the supreme authority of God. Peter's instruction expands on this by explaining *why* Caesar's agents (governors) have this authority—because they are "sent by him" (ultimately God) to fulfill a divine purpose. Both passages call believers to recognize and respect civil authority in its proper sphere, while reserving ultimate allegiance for God alone.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Peter 2:14](/1_peter/2-14 "1 Peter 2:14 - The Role of Governors"), with its emphasis on the dual function of civil authority to punish evildoers and praise those who do well, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the supreme Governor, the King of kings and Lord of lords, to whom "all power is given... in heaven and in earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). While earthly governors are "sent by him" (the king), Christ Himself is the divine sender, the one who perfectly embodies and executes both justice and righteousness. He came to bear the punishment for humanity's ultimate "evildoing"—sin—on the cross, thereby satisfying divine justice and making a way for reconciliation ([Romans 3:25-26](/romans/3-25-26 "Romans 3:25-26 - God's Righteousness Through Christ")). Furthermore, Christ is the one who perfectly "did well," living a sinless life of complete obedience to the Father, earning the ultimate "praise" and commendation: "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" ([Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - The Father's Affirmation of Jesus")). Through His atoning work, believers are empowered by the Spirit to "do well" ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")), becoming reflections of His righteousness, and ultimately receiving "praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ" ([1 Peter 1:7](/1_peter/1-7 "1 Peter 1:7 - Faith Tested by Fire")). Thus, the principles of justice and commendation outlined for earthly rulers point to Christ as the righteous Judge and the source of all true good, who will one day perfectly execute both judgment and reward.

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

Romans 13:3

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:

Romans 13:4

For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that doeth evil.