1 Peter 3:14

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G235} and if {G1499} ye suffer {G3958} for {G1223} righteousness' sake {G1343}, happy {G3107} are ye: and {G1161} be {G5399} not {G3361} afraid {G5399} of their {G846} terror {G5401}, neither {G3366} be troubled {G5015};

Complete Jewish Bible

But even if you do suffer for being righteous, you are blessed! Moreover, don’t fear what they fear or be disturbed,

Berean Standard Bible

But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be shaken.”

American Standard Version

But even if ye should suffer for righteousness’ sake, blessed are ye: and fear not their fear, neither be troubled;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Peter 3:14 offers profound encouragement to believers facing persecution, declaring that suffering for the sake of righteousness leads to divine blessing and happiness. It challenges Christians to cultivate an unwavering inner peace and courage, urging them not to succumb to fear or intimidation from those who oppose them, but rather to stand firm in their faith, trusting in God's sovereign protection and promise of ultimate reward.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader section of Peter's epistle (chapters 2-3) where he provides practical instruction on Christian conduct in a hostile world. Having exhorted believers to live honorably among Gentiles (1 Peter 2:11-12), submit to authorities (1 Peter 2:13-17), and endure unjust suffering with Christ-like patience (1 Peter 2:18-25), Peter then addresses specific relational dynamics within the household, including wives and husbands (1 Peter 3:1-7). He transitions to a general call for unity, compassion, and blessing others (1 Peter 3:8-9), emphasizing that doing good, not evil, is the path to receiving blessing (1 Peter 3:10-12). Verse 13 poses a rhetorical question about who would harm those zealous for good, leading directly into the affirmation of blessing for righteous suffering in verse 14. The subsequent verses (1 Peter 3:15-17) instruct believers on how to respond to inquiries about their hope, always with gentleness and respect, and reiterates the preference for suffering for good rather than evil.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's letter is addressed to "elect exiles of the Dispersion" (1 Peter 1:1) in various Roman provinces of Asia Minor. These early Christians were a minority group, often misunderstood, slandered, and subjected to social ostracism, economic disadvantage, and even physical persecution for their refusal to participate in pagan religious practices and emperor worship. Their distinct way of life, adherence to Christ, and rejection of prevailing cultural norms made them targets of suspicion and hostility. The "terror" mentioned in the verse likely refers to the various forms of intimidation, threats, and actual suffering they faced from their pagan neighbors and authorities, ranging from verbal abuse to physical violence and legal prosecution. Peter writes to bolster their resolve and provide theological grounding for their endurance, reminding them that their suffering is not arbitrary but has redemptive significance.
* **Key Themes:** First Peter consistently grapples with the theme of **suffering for Christ's sake**, reframing it not as a sign of God's disfavor, but as a pathway to blessing and conformity to Christ's own experience. This verse directly contributes to the understanding that such suffering is a mark of genuine discipleship and a source of divine favor, echoing the Beatitudes of Jesus, especially [Matthew 5:10, where blessing is pronounced upon those persecuted for righteousness](/matthew/5-10 "Matthew 5:10 - Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness"). Another prominent theme is **hope amidst adversity**, as Peter continually points believers to their "living hope" in the resurrection of Jesus Christ ([1 Peter 1:3](/1_peter/1-3 "1 Peter 1:3 - Living Hope through Resurrection")). This hope provides the foundation for courage and peace, enabling them to "be not afraid of their terror," as their ultimate security rests in God, not in worldly circumstances. Finally, the epistle emphasizes **holy living** and **good conduct** as a powerful witness to the surrounding culture, even when such conduct provokes opposition ([1 Peter 2:12](/1_peter/2-12 "1 Peter 2:12 - Living Honorably Among Gentiles")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **suffer (Greek, _páschō'_):** This verb denotes experiencing a sensation or impression, typically a painful one. In this context, it refers to enduring hardship, persecution, or affliction. Peter consistently uses this word to describe the trials faced by believers, often linking it to the suffering of Christ himself, implying that Christian suffering is a participation in Christ's own experience.
* **righteousness (Greek, _dikaiosýnē'_):** This term signifies equity of character or act, and in a Christian sense, justification. Here, "for righteousness' sake" means suffering because one is living righteously, upholding God's standards, or advocating for truth, rather than suffering due to one's own wrongdoing. It defines the specific, blessed nature of the suffering.
* **happy (Greek, _makários'_):** This word describes a state of being supremely blessed, fortunate, or well-off. It conveys a deep, spiritual blessedness that is independent of external circumstances and is bestowed by God. It's the same term Jesus uses in the Beatitudes, indicating a divine favor and inner contentment that persecution cannot diminish.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake":** This opening clause introduces a conditional statement, acknowledging the reality that believers may indeed experience suffering. The crucial qualifier "for righteousness' sake" distinguishes this suffering from that which comes as a consequence of sin or foolishness. It implies that the suffering is directly linked to one's adherence to God's will, ethical conduct, or confession of faith in Christ. This type of suffering is not a misfortune but a specific, divinely recognized experience.
* **"happy [are ye]:"** This declares the blessed state of those who endure such righteous suffering. The term "happy" (Greek _makários_) signifies a profound, divinely bestowed blessedness, a state of spiritual well-being and favor that transcends worldly circumstances. It suggests an inner joy and contentment that comes from God's approval and presence, even amidst external hardship. This beatitude reframes suffering as a pathway to receiving God's special favor.
* **"and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;":** This is a direct command, an imperative call to courage and inner peace. "Their terror" refers to the intimidation, threats, and hostile actions of those who oppose believers. The double negative ("be not afraid... neither be troubled") emphasizes the absolute nature of the command: Christians are not to be shaken, intimidated, or thrown into disarray by external pressures. "Troubled" (Greek _tarássō_) implies being agitated or stirred up, like roiled water. Peter urges a steadfast composure, rooted in trust in God rather than fear of human adversaries.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Antithesis** is evident in the contrast between suffering and happiness, challenging conventional understanding by asserting that hardship for a righteous cause leads to blessedness. This paradox underscores a core Christian truth that God's ways are often counter-cultural. The phrase "be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled" utilizes **parallelism** and **negative commands** to emphasize the imperative for inner fortitude. The repetition of "not" creates a strong, unequivocal prohibition against fear and agitation, reinforcing the call to steadfastness. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a **beatitude**, a declaration of blessing, similar to those found in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. This form elevates the suffering of believers to a divinely sanctioned and favored status, providing profound spiritual encouragement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully connects the experience of suffering with the promise of divine blessing, echoing a recurring theme throughout Scripture that God's people will face opposition for their faithfulness. It redefines suffering, not as a sign of God's abandonment, but as a potential indicator of alignment with His will and a pathway to deeper intimacy and reward. The call to fearlessness in the face of human terror grounds the believer's security in God's sovereignty, reminding us that ultimate power and authority reside with Him, not with persecutors. This perspective transforms the experience of hardship from a source of despair into an opportunity for spiritual growth and a demonstration of unwavering faith.

* [Matthew 5:10](/matthew/5-10 "Matthew 5:10 - Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness")
* [Luke 6:22](/luke/6-22 "Luke 6:22 - Blessed when hated and reviled for the Son of Man's sake")
* [Philippians 1:29](/philippians/1-29 "Philippians 1:29 - It has been granted to you to suffer for Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Peter 3:14 offers profound encouragement and a challenging call to contemporary believers. In a world that often values comfort and ease, this verse reminds us that genuine faithfulness may invite opposition. It compels us to examine the nature of our suffering: is it a consequence of our own sin, or is it truly "for righteousness' sake"? When our commitment to truth, justice, or the Gospel message brings discomfort, ridicule, or even tangible loss, this verse assures us that we are not abandoned; rather, we are in a uniquely blessed position. It empowers us to resist the pervasive culture of fear and anxiety, urging us to fix our gaze on God's promises rather than the threats of human adversaries. Embracing this perspective fosters resilience, enabling us to stand firm, speak truth, and live righteously, confident that our ultimate joy and security are found in Christ, regardless of external circumstances.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be experiencing opposition or discomfort "for righteousness' sake"?**
* **How does the promise of "happiness" or "blessedness" in suffering reframe my perspective on hardship?**
* **What specific "terrors" or intimidations do I face today that might cause me to be afraid or troubled, and how can I apply the command to "be not afraid"?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty that enables me to remain peaceful and steadfast amidst adversity?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean to "suffer for righteousness' sake"?**

Answer: To "suffer for righteousness' sake" means to endure hardship, persecution, or discomfort specifically because one is living righteously, upholding God's moral standards, advocating for truth, or identifying with Christ. It is distinct from suffering that results from one's own sin, foolishness, or poor choices. For example, a Christian might suffer for refusing to compromise their integrity in business, for speaking out against injustice, or simply for being associated with the name of Christ in a hostile environment. This type of suffering is considered blessed because it aligns the believer with Christ's own experience and demonstrates faithfulness to God.

**Why are those who suffer for righteousness' sake called "happy" or "blessed"?**

Answer: The Greek word translated "happy" (KJV) is _makários_, which is more accurately rendered "blessed" or "divinely favored." This blessedness is not a fleeting emotion but a deep, spiritual well-being and contentment that comes from God. It signifies that God approves of and is intimately present with those who suffer for His sake. This divine favor transcends external circumstances, meaning one can be "blessed" even while enduring great hardship. It echoes Jesus' teachings in the Beatitudes, particularly [Matthew 5:10](/matthew/5-10 "Matthew 5:10 - Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness"), indicating a spiritual reward and a unique closeness to God that accompanies such suffering.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Peter 3:14 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent example of one who suffered perfectly "for righteousness' sake," not for His own sin, but for the righteousness of God and the salvation of humanity. His entire life, culminating in His crucifixion, was a demonstration of righteous suffering, as He "committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in his mouth" ([1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ's Sinless Suffering")). The "terror" that Peter speaks of was fully unleashed upon Christ, yet He faced it without fear or being troubled, entrusting Himself to God ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ entrusted Himself to God")). His suffering was not an end but a means to bring us to God ([1 Peter 3:18](/1_peter/3-18 "1 Peter 3:18 - Christ suffered once for sins to bring us to God")). Therefore, when believers suffer for righteousness, they are not merely enduring hardship, but are participating in the sufferings of Christ ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's sufferings")), becoming conformed to His image, and experiencing the very blessedness that flows from His victorious endurance. Their fearlessness is a reflection of Christ's own unwavering trust in His Father, promising that just as He was vindicated and glorified, so too will those who suffer with Him ultimately share in His glory ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ, suffering with Him to be glorified with Him")).

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

Matthew 10:28

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

1 Peter 2:19

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

1 Peter 2:20

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.

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.

Isaiah 41:10

¶ Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Isaiah 41:14

Fear not, thou worm Jacob, [and] ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.