1 Peter 3:13

And who [is] he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?

And {G2532} who {G5101} is he that will harm {G2559} you {G5209}, if {G1437} ye be {G1096} followers {G3402} of that which is good {G18}?

For who will hurt you if you become zealots for what is good?

Who can harm you if you are zealous for what is good?

And who is he that will harm you, if ye be zealous of that which is good?

Commentary

1 Peter 3:13 KJV: "And who [is] he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?"

Context

This verse is part of Peter's broader instruction to Christians living in a hostile, pagan society, often facing persecution. In 1 Peter 3, he encourages believers to live righteously, maintain a good conscience, and be ready to give a defense for their hope (1 Peter 3:15). He has just spoken about suffering for righteousness' sake (1 Peter 3:14) and the example of Christ's suffering. Verse 13 serves as a rhetorical question, offering profound assurance of divine protection to those who actively pursue goodness.

Meaning and Key Themes

Peter's rhetorical question, "who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?", implies that true, lasting harm cannot ultimately befall those who are genuinely devoted to righteousness. While physical suffering or worldly setbacks may occur—a reality Peter addresses throughout his letter—the verse assures believers of God's ultimate care and protection over their spiritual well-being and purpose.

  • Divine Protection: The verse suggests that God's providence safeguards those who live righteously. While believers are not immune to all earthly difficulties, their commitment to good places them under God's watchful eye, implying that no *ultimate* or *eternal* harm can touch them.
  • The Power of Righteous Living: Living a life aligned with God's will and actively pursuing moral excellence acts as a spiritual shield. It fosters a good conscience (1 Peter 3:16) and disarms critics, as their opposition lacks a legitimate basis.
  • Inner Peace Amidst Adversity: This promise offers immense comfort. It encourages believers to focus on their character and conduct rather than fearing external threats, knowing that their integrity and devotion to God provide a profound sense of security.

Linguistic Insight

The KJV phrase "followers of that which is good" translates the Greek word zēlōtai (ζηλωταί), which means "zealous for" or "eager for." It implies more than just passive adherence; it denotes an active, passionate pursuit and devotion. The "good" (ἀγαθοῦ - agathou) refers to inherent moral excellence and that which is beneficial or virtuous. Thus, the verse speaks to those who are enthusiastically and actively committed to doing what is right and morally excellent.

Practical Application

In any era, pursuing goodness can invite opposition, ridicule, or even genuine danger. 1 Peter 3:13 serves as a powerful encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that our primary concern should be living a life that honors God and reflects His character, rather than constantly fearing what others might do. While we may face challenges, this verse assures us that God's sovereign hand is ultimately in control, and no true, lasting harm can come to those who are faithfully following Him. It reinforces the principle that all things work together for good to them that love God, providing a deep sense of security and purpose in our walk of faith.

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Cross-References

  • Proverbs 16:7 (21 votes)

    ¶ When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (19 votes)

    See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].

  • Romans 8:28 (18 votes)

    And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

  • 3 John 1:11 (16 votes)

    Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.

  • Psalms 38:20 (12 votes)

    They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow [the thing that] good [is].

  • Proverbs 15:9 (9 votes)

    ¶ The way of the wicked [is] an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:1 (9 votes)

    ¶ Follow after charity, and desire spiritual [gifts], but rather that ye may prophesy.