1 Peter 2:21

1 Peter 2:21 is a foundational verse for Christian ethics, particularly concerning how believers are to respond to suffering and injustice. It grounds the call to endure hardship in the ultimate example of Jesus Christ Himself, who suffered unjustly for humanity.

Context

This verse flows directly from Peter's exhortation to servants (and by extension, all believers) to submit to their masters (and authorities), even if they are harsh or unreasonable (1 Peter 2:18). Peter commends those who "for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully" (1 Peter 2:19). He clarifies that there is no glory in enduring punishment for wrongdoing, but "if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God" (1 Peter 2:20). Verse 21 then provides the ultimate justification and model for such patient endurance: the suffering of Christ.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Christian Calling to Suffer: Peter asserts that believers are "called" (Greek: kaleō) to a life that may include suffering, especially for righteousness' sake. This isn't a call to seek out suffering, but to embrace it patiently when it arises as a consequence of living righteously in a fallen world.
• Christ as the Supreme Example: The core message is that Jesus Christ's suffering was not only redemptive (paying the penalty for sin, as further elaborated in 1 Peter 2:24) but also exemplary. He suffered unjustly, yet with perfect patience and submission to God's will.
• Imitation of Christ: The phrase "leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps" emphasizes the practical, imitable aspect of Christ's life. The Greek word for "example," hypogrammos, refers to a writing copy or an outline to be traced, suggesting a precise pattern for discipleship. Believers are to walk in His footsteps, particularly in His humble endurance of mistreatment. This echoes Jesus' own teaching about setting an example for His disciples to follow.

Linguistic Insights

The term "example" in Greek, hypogrammos (ὑπογραμμός), is unique to this verse in the New Testament. It literally means "an under-writing" or "a copy set by a teacher for a pupil to copy." This powerfully conveys the idea that Christ's life, especially His suffering, is not merely something to admire, but a practical blueprint for how believers are to live and respond to adversity. It's a call to active imitation, not passive observation.

Practical Application

For the modern believer, 1 Peter 2:21 offers profound guidance on how to navigate unfairness, criticism, or even persecution. It teaches that:

• Suffering for Righteousness is Part of the Calling: When we face hardship not because of our own sin, but because we are living according to God's will, we are participating in the pattern established by Christ. This can bring a sense of purpose and divine approval, as also noted in Matthew 5:10.
• Christ's Response is Our Model: We are to learn from Christ's patient, non-retaliatory endurance (1 Peter 2:23). This calls for humility and trust in God's ultimate justice, rather than seeking personal revenge or becoming bitter.
• Discipleship is Imitation: Following Christ means more than intellectual assent; it means actively shaping our character and actions to mirror His. This includes His attitude towards suffering, His love for enemies, and His submission to the Father's will, embodying the mind of Christ.

This verse encourages Christians to view suffering not as an interruption to their faith, but as an integral part of their spiritual journey and a unique opportunity to reflect the character of Christ to a watching world.