1 Peter 2:17

KJV

Honour all [men]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

KJV (with Strong's)

Honour {G5091} all {G3956} men. Love {G25} the brotherhood {G81}. Fear {G5399} God {G2316}. Honour {G5091} the king {G935}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Be respectful to all — keep loving the brotherhood, fearing God and honoring the emperor.

Berean Standard Bible

Treat everyone with high regard: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.

American Standard Version

Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 2:17 encapsulates four foundational commands for Christian living within society: to honor all people, to love the community of believers, to revere God, and to respect civil authority. These concise yet profound directives serve as pillars for faithful conduct, guiding believers to live exemplary lives that reflect God's character and advance His kingdom, even amidst a world that may be hostile or indifferent to their faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a significant section in Peter's epistle (1 Peter 2:11-17) where he exhorts believers to live as "sojourners and pilgrims" in the world, abstaining from fleshly lusts that wage war against the soul. Peter's overarching aim is to encourage a lifestyle of "good works" among the Gentiles, so that even those who slander Christians might, by observing their conduct, "glorify God in the day of visitation" ([1 Peter 2:12](/1_peter/2-12 "1 Peter 2:12 - Good Conduct Among Gentiles")). Following this general exhortation, Peter provides specific instructions regarding submission to human authorities, emphasizing that believers are to "submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake" ([1 Peter 2:13](/1_peter/2-13 "1 Peter 2:13 - Submission to Authority")). He clarifies that this submission is not a sign of bondage but an expression of their freedom in Christ, urging them to "live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God" ([1 Peter 2:16](/1_peter/2-16 "1 Peter 2:16 - Living as Free Servants")). Verse 17 then distills these broader principles into four succinct, actionable imperatives, summarizing the Christian's proper posture towards humanity, the church, God, and the state.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter wrote this epistle to scattered believers in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), likely during a period of increasing Roman suspicion and persecution against Christians. The Roman Empire, while generally tolerant of diverse religions, viewed the exclusive claims of Christianity and its refusal to participate in emperor worship as a threat to social cohesion and imperial authority. Christians were often slandered as atheists (for not worshipping Roman gods), cannibals (due to misunderstanding of the Eucharist), and disloyal citizens. In this environment, Peter's instructions were crucial for the survival and witness of the nascent church. He guided them on how to navigate their dual citizenship – as citizens of God's kingdom and residents of the Roman Empire – by demonstrating respect for all people and authorities, thereby disarming critics and upholding the reputation of Christ. This context highlights the counter-cultural nature of Peter's commands, urging believers to respond to hostility with honor and love, rather than rebellion or withdrawal.

* **Key Themes:** First Peter 2:17 contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout the epistle. The theme of **Christian identity and conduct** is central, as Peter consistently calls believers to live 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")) who proclaim the excellencies of God. The commands in verse 17 directly outline how this identity should manifest in practical, ethical living. The theme of **submission to authority** is also prominent, building upon Peter's earlier exhortations to submit to civil rulers and even masters ([1 Peter 2:13-18](/1_peter/2-13-18 "1 Peter 2:13-18 - Submission to Authority and Masters")). This submission is framed not as weakness, but as a demonstration of freedom and a means of silencing foolish accusers. Furthermore, the verse underscores the theme of **love within the community**, echoing Christ's new commandment to "love one another" ([John 13:34](/john/13-34 "John 13:34 - New Commandment to Love")). Finally, the foundational command to "Fear God" reinforces the epistle's emphasis on **reverence and holiness** as the ultimate motivation for all Christian behavior, recalling the call to "be holy; for I am holy" ([1 Peter 1:16](/1_peter/1-16 "1 Peter 1:16 - Be Holy")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Honour (Greek, _timáō'_):** From G5091, meaning "to prize, i.e. fix a valuation upon; by implication, to revere." This word, used twice in the verse, signifies recognizing and valuing the inherent worth or established position of someone. It is not mere politeness but a deep respect that acknowledges dignity, whether it is the dignity of all humanity as image-bearers of God or the dignity of a governing office. It implies treating others with the esteem they are due.
* **Love (Greek, _agapáō'_):** From G25, meaning "to love (in a social or moral sense)." This is the verb form of _agape_, denoting a selfless, unconditional, and benevolent love that seeks the highest good of the other. It is a volitional love, a choice to act for the benefit of others, distinct from emotional affection. When applied to the "brotherhood," it speaks of a unique, sacrificial bond within the Christian community.
* **Fear (Greek, _phobéō'_):** From G5399, meaning "to frighten, i.e. (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. revere." In the context of "Fear God," this term does not imply terror or servile dread but a profound reverence, awe, and respect for God's ultimate power, holiness, and sovereignty. It is a healthy, worshipful fear that leads to obedience and trust, recognizing God's supreme authority over all creation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Honour all [men].":** This is the broadest command, establishing a universal ethic of respect. It calls believers to recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their social status, ethnicity, beliefs, or actions. This honor stems from the understanding that all humanity is created in God's image, possessing intrinsic value. It implies treating others with courtesy, fairness, and a recognition of their personhood, even those who may be hostile or different.
* **"Love the brotherhood.":** This command narrows the focus to the specific community of believers, the church. The "brotherhood" (Greek: _adelphotēs_) refers to the Christian fraternity, emphasizing the familial bond shared by those united in Christ. The love commanded here is _agape_ love – a deep, sacrificial, and unconditional love that prioritizes the well-being and spiritual growth of fellow Christians. This love is meant to be a distinguishing mark of Christ's disciples and a powerful witness to the world.
* **"Fear God.":** This is the foundational and most profound command, upon which the others rest. To "fear God" means to hold Him in supreme reverence and awe, acknowledging His absolute sovereignty, holiness, and justice. It is not a cowering dread but a worshipful submission that recognizes God's ultimate authority and wisdom. This reverential fear motivates obedience, trust, and a desire to please Him above all else, providing the ultimate moral compass for all other relationships and duties.
* **"Honour the king.":** This command, like the first, focuses on external authority, specifically civil government. "The king" (Greek: _basileús_) represents the supreme governing authority of the land (in Peter's context, the Roman Emperor and his appointed officials). This directive reiterates Peter's earlier call for submission to human institutions for the Lord's sake. It demands respect for the office and the role of government in maintaining order, even if the individual ruler is unrighteous or pagan. This honor is a demonstration of Christian citizenship and a means of silencing critics, showing that believers are not anarchists but contributors to societal well-being.

#### Literary Devices
Peter employs several literary devices to make his commands impactful and memorable. The most prominent is **Imperative Mood**, as the entire verse is composed of four concise, direct commands, emphasizing their non-negotiable nature for Christian conduct. The structure also exhibits a form of **Parallelism** and **Conciseness**, with each phrase being short and impactful, creating a rhythmic and easily recallable set of principles. The repetition of "Honour" at the beginning and end of the verse creates an **Inclusio** or **Bookending** effect, highlighting the importance of respect in both universal and specific (governmental) contexts. Furthermore, the progression of the commands moves from the general (all people) to the specific (the brotherhood), then to the ultimate (God), and finally back to a specific external authority (the king), demonstrating a comprehensive and balanced approach to Christian living. This careful arrangement underscores the interconnectedness of these duties, all flowing from a proper relationship with God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The four commands of 1 Peter 2:17 are deeply intertwined, forming a cohesive theological framework for Christian ethics. The command to "Fear God" serves as the theological bedrock, establishing the ultimate authority and motivation for all other actions. It is out of a profound reverence for God that believers are enabled to extend honor to all humanity, recognizing their creation in God's image. This God-centered perspective also empowers the unique and sacrificial love for the "brotherhood," which reflects the very nature of God's love for His people. Finally, the ability to honor civil authorities, even when they are imperfect or oppressive, flows from the understanding that all authority is ultimately ordained by God, and submission to it is an act of obedience to Him. This verse thus presents a holistic vision of Christian discipleship that balances universal human dignity, internal community cohesion, ultimate divine sovereignty, and responsible civic engagement.

* [Romans 13:7](/romans/13-7 "Romans 13:7 - Render to All Their Dues")
* [Philippians 2:3](/philippians/2-3 "Philippians 2:3 - Humility and Esteem for Others")
* [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Peter 2:17 offers timeless and profoundly practical guidance for believers in every generation. In a world often characterized by division, disrespect, and disdain for authority, these commands call Christians to embody a radically different way of life. To "Honour all [men]" challenges us to look beyond superficial differences, political alignments, or personal disagreements and to see the image of God in every individual, treating them with inherent dignity and respect. This universal honor is not contingent on their actions or beliefs, but on their status as human beings. Simultaneously, "Love the brotherhood" reminds us of the unique and vital bond within the Christian community, urging us to cultivate deep, sacrificial, and unwavering love for one another, making our unity a compelling witness to the world. The foundational command to "Fear God" serves as our ultimate anchor, reminding us that our primary allegiance and deepest reverence belong to Him alone. This reverential awe provides the moral compass and spiritual strength to navigate all other relationships and duties faithfully. Finally, "Honour the king" (or governing authorities) calls us to be exemplary citizens, respecting the rule of law and the office of those in authority, thereby demonstrating our commitment to peace and order in society, unless their commands directly contradict God's higher law. This verse compels us to live out our faith visibly and consistently, demonstrating Christ's transforming power in both our private and public spheres.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the command to "Honour all [men]" challenge my natural inclinations or biases towards those I disagree with or find difficult?**
* **In what specific ways can I more intentionally "Love the brotherhood" in my local church community, moving beyond casual acquaintance to genuine, sacrificial care?**
* **What does it truly mean for me to "Fear God" in my daily life, and how does this reverence shape my decisions and priorities?**
* **How can I better "Honour the king" (or governing authorities) through my actions, words, and prayers, even when I disagree with their policies or character?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between "Honour all men" and "Honour the king"?**

Answer: While both commands use the same Greek word for "honour" (_timáō_), their scope and specific application differ significantly. "Honour all men" (or "all people," as the Greek _pâs_ is gender-neutral) refers to a universal respect for the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, regardless of their status, beliefs, or actions. It acknowledges that all are created in God's image and deserve to be treated with courtesy and recognition of their personhood. "Honour the king," on the other hand, is a specific command to show respect for civil authority and the office of government. This honor is given to the institution and its representatives because they are ordained by God to maintain order and justice, as described in [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1-7 "Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Governing Authorities"). So, while "honour all men" speaks to general human dignity, "honour the king" speaks to respect for a specific, God-ordained societal role.

**Does "Fear God" mean Christians should be afraid of God?**

Answer: No, in this context, "Fear God" (Greek: _phobéō_) does not mean to be terrified of Him in a cowering or servile way. Instead, it signifies a profound and reverential awe, respect, and worshipful submission to God's ultimate sovereignty, holiness, and power. It is a healthy, loving fear that acknowledges God's supreme authority and majesty, leading to obedience and trust rather than dread. This "fear of the Lord" is often described in Scripture as the "beginning of wisdom" ([Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")) and is foundational to a right relationship with Him. It implies a recognition of His justice and judgment, but also His lovingkindness and mercy, fostering a desire to please Him above all else.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The commands in 1 Peter 2:17 find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the supreme example of one who perfectly honored all, loved the brotherhood, feared God, and honored the king. Jesus consistently demonstrated profound **honor for all people**, engaging with outcasts, sinners, and those marginalized by society, recognizing their inherent dignity as image-bearers of God (e.g., His interactions with the [Samaritan woman](/john/4 "John 4 - Jesus and the Samaritan Woman") or [Zacchaeus](/luke/19-1-10 "Luke 19:1-10 - Jesus and Zacchaeus")). His life was the epitome of **love for the brotherhood**, establishing a new community of disciples whom He loved "to the end" ([John 13:1](/john/13-1 "John 13:1 - Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet")) and for whom He laid down His life, becoming the ultimate demonstration of _agape_ love ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")). Furthermore, Jesus lived a life of perfect **fear of God**, exhibiting complete reverence, obedience, and submission to the Father's will, even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). His prayer in Gethsemane, "not my will, but yours be done" ([Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Luke 22:42 - Jesus Prays in Gethsemane")), perfectly encapsulates this reverential submission. Finally, Christ demonstrated **honor for the king** and civil authority by submitting to the Roman legal system, even when it was unjust, famously telling His disciples to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" ([Matthew 22:21](/matthew/22-21 "Matthew 22:21 - Render to Caesar")). In His perfect life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection, Jesus not only commanded these virtues but embodied them, empowering believers through His Spirit to live out these very principles as a reflection of His character and a witness to His transforming power.

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

Proverbs 24:21

¶ My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: [and] meddle not with them that are given to change:

Romans 12:10

[Be] kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

Romans 13:7

¶ Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

1 Peter 5:5

¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Philippians 2:3

[Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Hebrews 13:1

¶ Let brotherly love continue.

1 Peter 1:22

Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, [see that ye] love one another with a pure heart fervently: