1 Peter 2:20

KJV

For what glory [is it], if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer [for it], ye take it patiently, this [is] acceptable with God.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} what {G4169} glory {G2811} is it, if {G1487}, when {G2532} ye be buffeted {G2852} for your faults {G264}, ye shall take it patiently {G5278}? but {G235} if {G1487}, when ye do well {G15}, and {G2532} suffer {G3958} for it, ye take it patiently {G5278}, this {G5124} is acceptable {G5485} with {G3844} God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For what credit is there in bearing up under a beating you deserve for doing something wrong? But if you bear up under punishment, even though you have done what is right, God looks on it with favor.

Berean Standard Bible

How is it to your credit if you are beaten for doing wrong and you endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.

American Standard Version

For what glory is it, if, when ye sin, and are buffeted for it, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye shall take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 2:20 distinguishes between two forms of suffering: that which results from wrongdoing and that which arises from doing good. The verse asserts that while there is no commendation for patiently enduring deserved punishment, the patient endurance of suffering for righteous conduct is profoundly pleasing and acceptable in the sight of God. This foundational truth encourages believers to persevere in well-doing, knowing that their steadfastness in the face of unjust hardship holds divine value and approval.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader section of 1 Peter (chapters 2-3) where the Apostle Peter exhorts believers to live honorably in a hostile world. Specifically, [1 Peter 2:11-12](/1_peter/2-11-12 "1 Peter 2:11-12 - Live Honorably Among Gentiles") calls for exemplary conduct among Gentiles, followed by instructions on submission to governing authorities ([1 Peter 2:13-17](/1_peter/2-13-17 "1 Peter 2:13-17 - Submission to Authorities")) and to masters ([1 Peter 2:18-20](/1_peter/2-18-20 "1 Peter 2:18-20 - Servants and Suffering")). Verse 20 serves as the climax of Peter's counsel to servants, directly preceding and setting the stage for the profound example of Christ's suffering in [1 Peter 2:21-25](/1_peter/2-21-25 "1 Peter 2:21-25 - Christ's Example of Suffering"). It clarifies the type of suffering that bears spiritual weight, preparing the reader to understand Christ's redemptive suffering as the ultimate model.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's letter is addressed to "elect exiles" scattered across Asia Minor ([1 Peter 1:1](/1_peter/1-1 "1 Peter 1:1 - Peter's Greeting")). These early Christians, often a minority, faced social ostracism, slander, and various forms of persecution simply for their faith and distinct lifestyle. The Roman Empire, while generally tolerant of diverse religions, viewed Christian refusal to worship Roman gods or the emperor as disloyalty, leading to suspicion and sometimes violent oppression. Within this context, Peter's instructions on submission and suffering were not calls for passive resignation but strategic guidance for maintaining a clear conscience and a powerful witness. The specific mention of "buffeted" likely refers to physical abuse or harsh treatment, a common reality for servants and those accused without due process in the ancient world.

* **Key Themes:** [First Peter](/1_peter/1 "1 Peter - Hope in Suffering") is saturated with themes of suffering, hope, and holy living. This verse contributes significantly to the theme of **suffering for righteousness**, distinguishing it from suffering for sin. It underscores the importance of **patient endurance** (Greek: _hypomonē_), not as mere stoicism, but as an active, faithful perseverance rooted in trust in God's sovereign plan. Furthermore, the concept of **divine approval** is central, as Peter emphasizes that such righteous suffering "is acceptable with God." This highlights that God sees, values, and commends those who endure hardship for His sake, aligning with the broader New Testament teaching that faithfulness in tribulation leads to spiritual reward and growth, as seen in [James 1:2-4](/james/1-2-4 "James 1:2-4 - Perseverance in Trials") and [Romans 5:3-5](/romans/5-3-5 "Romans 5:3-5 - Benefits of Suffering").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Glory (Greek, _kléos'_):** This word, derived from a root meaning "to call" or "to be called," signifies renown, fame, or praise. In this context, Peter uses it to denote commendation or credit. He argues that there is no "glory" or praiseworthiness in enduring punishment that is justly deserved for one's own faults. It underscores that true spiritual merit comes from actions that transcend mere consequence.
* **Buffeted (Greek, _kolaphízō'_):** This term literally means "to strike with the fist" or "to cuff." It suggests a harsh, humiliating, and often physical form of abuse or ill-treatment. Peter's choice of this word emphasizes the severity and indignity of the suffering he is describing, making the call to patient endurance even more profound. It implies an unprovoked, violent assault, not merely verbal criticism.
* **Patiently (Greek, _hypoménō'_):** A compound word meaning "to stay under" or "to remain behind," _hypomenō_ carries the sense of enduring steadfastly, persevering, or bearing up under pressure without giving in. It is not passive resignation but an active fortitude and persistence in the face of adversity. This patience is rooted in faith and hope, enabling the believer to remain firm in their commitment to Christ despite suffering.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For what glory [is it], if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently?"**: This rhetorical question sets up a contrast. Peter posits that there is no commendation or honor in enduring suffering that is a direct and just consequence of one's own wrongdoing or "faults" (Greek: _hamartánō_, to miss the mark, to sin). If one is punished for their sins and simply endures it, that is merely accepting a deserved consequence; it carries no special spiritual merit or "glory" in God's eyes.
* **"but if, when ye do well, and suffer [for it], ye take it patiently,"**: This clause introduces the crucial distinction. Peter shifts from deserved suffering to undeserved suffering. "To do well" (Greek: _agathopoiéō_) means to act righteously, to perform good deeds, or to live in a manner pleasing to God. If, despite such righteous conduct, a believer experiences suffering—whether physical abuse ("buffeted") or other forms of hardship—and endures it with steadfast patience, this is what truly matters.
* **"this [is] acceptable with God."**: This concluding phrase reveals the divine perspective. The patient endurance of suffering that results from doing good, rather than from wrongdoing, is "acceptable" (Greek: _cháris_, meaning grace, favor, or something pleasing) in the sight of God. It signifies that such endurance finds favor with Him, is commendable to Him, and carries profound spiritual value and significance in His economy. It is an act of faith and obedience that brings delight to the Father.

#### Literary Devices
Peter employs several literary devices to convey his message powerfully. The most prominent is **Rhetorical Question**, "For what glory [is it], if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently?", which serves to immediately engage the reader and highlight the obvious answer: there is no glory in such suffering. This is followed by a stark **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, where Peter juxtaposes suffering for "faults" with suffering for "doing well." This sharp distinction underscores the core theological point of the verse. Furthermore, a clear **Parallelism** is evident in the structure of the two "if" clauses, which mirror each other in their construction ("if, when ye be buffeted... ye shall take it patiently" versus "if, when ye do well... ye take it patiently"), emphasizing the comparison and making the teaching memorable.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Peter 2:20 is a profound theological statement on the nature and value of suffering in the Christian life. It teaches that not all suffering is redemptive or meritorious; suffering that is a just consequence of our own sin carries no special commendation from God. However, when a believer suffers unjustly for living righteously and doing good, their patient endurance is not only observed by God but is explicitly "acceptable with God," meaning it is pleasing and commendable in His sight. This truth encourages believers to maintain integrity and steadfastness, knowing that their faithfulness in adversity holds eternal significance and is a testament to their trust in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty. It frames suffering not merely as a trial but as an opportunity for divine commendation and a demonstration of genuine faith.

* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are the Persecuted")
* [Romans 5:3-5](/romans/5-3-5 "Romans 5:3-5 - Perseverance Produces Character")
* [James 1:2-4](/james/1-2-4 "James 1:2-4 - Trials and Perseverance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Peter 2:20 offers timeless guidance for believers navigating a world often hostile to Christian values. It compels us to honestly examine the source of our hardships. Are we suffering the natural consequences of our own poor choices, negligence, or sin? If so, the call is not for self-pity but for repentance and learning from our mistakes. However, if our suffering arises precisely because we are striving to live righteously, to speak truth, to act with integrity, or to uphold biblical principles in a fallen world, then this verse provides immense comfort and motivation. It assures us that such patient endurance is not in vain; it is seen, valued, and honored by God Himself. This perspective liberates us from the need for human approval or immediate relief, redirecting our focus to the ultimate commendation that comes from our Heavenly Father. It challenges us to cultivate a spirit of steadfastness, trusting that God is sovereign even in our pain, and that our faithfulness in the face of injustice brings Him glory and is a powerful witness to His transforming grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I typically react when I experience suffering or hardship? Do I first consider if it's a consequence of my own actions or if it's for doing good?**
* **What does it mean for my suffering to be "acceptable with God"? How does this understanding change my perspective on difficult circumstances?**
* **In what specific areas of my life might I be called to "do well" and potentially suffer for it? How can I cultivate patient endurance in those situations?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between "suffering for faults" and "suffering for doing good" as described in this verse?**

Answer: The verse draws a clear distinction. "Suffering for faults" (Greek: _hamartánō_) refers to experiencing negative consequences or punishment that are justly deserved because of one's own sin, wrongdoing, or poor choices. For example, if someone is disciplined at work for laziness or arrested for theft, that is suffering for their faults. There is no special "glory" or commendation in patiently enduring such deserved consequences. In contrast, "suffering for doing good" (Greek: _agathopoiéō_) means enduring hardship, persecution, or ill-treatment precisely because one is living righteously, upholding God's standards, or performing good deeds. This type of suffering is undeserved and often comes from a world that opposes righteousness. Peter teaches that patiently enduring *this* kind of suffering is what is "acceptable with God" and brings Him glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Peter 2:20 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Peter immediately follows this verse by pointing to Christ as the supreme example of one who "suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps" ([1 Peter 2:21](/1_peter/2-21 "1 Peter 2:21 - Christ Our Example")). Jesus, the sinless Son of God, truly "did well" in every aspect of His life, perfectly fulfilling the will of the Father and living a life of absolute righteousness ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Knew No Sin")). Yet, He suffered immensely, being "buffeted" and enduring the cross, not for His own faults, but for the sins of humanity ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - Wounded for Our Transgressions")). His patient endurance of unjust suffering, even unto death, was supremely "acceptable with God," demonstrating perfect obedience and accomplishing the Father's redemptive plan ([Philippians 2:8-9](/philippians/2-8-9 "Philippians 2:8-9 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). Therefore, when believers patiently endure suffering for doing good, they are not only following Christ's example but are also participating in His sufferings ([Colossians 1:24](/colossians/1-24 "Colossians 1:24 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")), and their endurance is made acceptable to God through their union with Him. Jesus's perfect, undeserved suffering is the foundation upon which our own righteous suffering gains its spiritual significance and divine commendation.

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

1 Peter 2:19

For this [is] thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.

1 Peter 3:17

For [it is] better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

1 Peter 3:14

But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy [are ye]: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;

Matthew 5:47

And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more [than others]? do not even the publicans so?

Matthew 5:10

Blessed [are] they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 5:12

Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great [is] your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Luke 6:32

For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them.