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.

For {G1063} it is better {G2909}, if {G1487} the will {G2307} of God {G2316} be so {G2309}, that ye suffer {G3958} for well doing {G15}, than {G2228} for evil doing {G2554}.

For if God has in fact willed that you should suffer, it is better that you suffer for doing what is good than for doing what is evil.

For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

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

Commentary

1 Peter 3:17 (KJV) states: "For [it is] better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing."

Context of 1 Peter 3:17

This verse is situated within Peter's broader exhortation to early Christians living in a challenging, often hostile, pagan society. Chapters 2 and 3 repeatedly emphasize the importance of living honorably and doing good, even when facing unjust suffering. Peter has just encouraged believers to be ready to give a defense for their hope, but to do so with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). He underscores that suffering for righteousness, rather than for wrongdoing, is a hallmark of Christian discipleship, aligning with the pattern of Christ Himself.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Suffering for Righteousness: The core message is that if suffering is unavoidable, it is far more honorable and spiritually beneficial to endure it as a consequence of living righteously ("well doing" or agathopoiia) than as a result of sinful actions ("evil doing" or kakopoiia). This distinction is vital for a believer's testimony and conscience.
  • God's Sovereign Will: The phrase "if the will of God be so" highlights divine sovereignty. It suggests that suffering for good deeds is not random or meaningless, but can sometimes be part of God's purposeful plan for a believer's growth, purification, or witness. This perspective offers comfort and purpose in hardship.
  • Moral Distinction in Hardship: Peter draws a sharp contrast between two types of suffering. While all suffering is difficult, suffering for one's own sin or foolishness brings shame and may not be redemptive. However, suffering for genuinely good, Christ-like behavior brings spiritual reward and honor in God's eyes, even if it brings worldly disfavor. Jesus Himself taught about the blessedness of those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek terms used here, agathopoiia (well doing) and kakopoiia (evil doing), emphasize the active nature of one's conduct. Agathopoiia refers to the performance of good deeds, beneficence, and living a life characterized by moral excellence and adherence to God's commands. This isn't passive innocence, but active pursuit of good, which paradoxically can invite opposition in a fallen world.

Practical Application

This verse offers profound encouragement and guidance for believers today:

  • Examine the Cause of Suffering: It prompts self-reflection. If we are experiencing hardship, we should first examine if it stems from our own wrongdoing or sin. If so, repentance is the path.
  • Embrace Righteous Suffering: If suffering comes as a result of upholding Christian values, speaking truth, or living righteously, this verse affirms its value. It reminds us that such suffering aligns us with Christ's own path (1 Peter 2:21) and is preferable to suffering for sin.
  • Find Purpose in Hardship: Understanding that suffering for good can be within God's will gives purpose to our trials. It transforms hardship from meaningless pain into a potential avenue for God's glory and our spiritual refinement. This perspective helps us to not grow weary in doing good.
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Cross-References

  • 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;

  • 1 Peter 4:19

    Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls [to him] in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

  • Matthew 26:39

    And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou [wilt].

  • Acts 21:14

    And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.

  • 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 26:42

    He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.

  • 1 Peter 2:15

    For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: