1 Peter 3:17

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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.

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 3:17 offers profound encouragement and theological insight for believers facing adversity, asserting that it is far more honorable, purposeful, and spiritually beneficial to endure suffering as a consequence of living righteously, in alignment with God's sovereign will, than to suffer due to one's own wrongdoing. This verse serves as a crucial distinction for Christians navigating a world often hostile to their faith, providing a framework for understanding the nature and redemptive potential of hardship when embraced with a good conscience.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Peter's extended exhortation to Christian conduct in the face of suffering, which begins in [1 Peter 2:11](/1_peter/2-11 "1 Peter 2:11 - Living as Sojourners and Exiles"). Having urged submission to governing authorities, masters, and husbands in the preceding verses ([1 Peter 2:13-3:7](/1_peter/2-13-3-7 "1 Peter 2:13-3:7 - Submission to Authority and Wives to Husbands")), Peter transitions to a general call for unity, compassion, and humility among believers ([1 Peter 3:8-9](/1_peter/3-8-9 "1 Peter 3:8-9 - Call to Unity and Blessing")). He then directly addresses the reality of suffering for righteousness, assuring believers that even if they suffer for doing good, they are blessed ([1 Peter 3:13-14](/1_peter/3-13-14 "1 Peter 3:13-14 - Suffering for Righteousness")). The immediate preceding verse, [1 Peter 3:16](/1_peter/3-16 "1 Peter 3:16 - Maintaining a Good Conscience"), emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good conscience so that those who malign Christian conduct will be put to shame. Therefore, [1 Peter 3:17](/1_peter/3-17 "1 Peter 3:17 - Suffering for Well Doing") acts as a summary principle, reinforcing that suffering, when it occurs, should be a result of righteous living, not sinful actions, thereby aligning with the pattern of Christ's own blameless suffering ([1 Peter 2:21-24](/1_peter/2-21-24 "1 Peter 2:21-24 - Christ's Example of Suffering")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's audience comprised scattered Christians in various Roman provinces of Asia Minor ([1 Peter 1:1](/1_peter/1-1 "1 Peter 1:1 - Peter's Greeting to the Exiles")). These early believers lived as a minority in a predominantly pagan society, often facing social ostracism, slander, and potential persecution for their refusal to participate in imperial cults or local pagan customs. Their distinct ethical lifestyle, characterized by moral purity and devotion to Christ, frequently invited misunderstanding and hostility. The Roman authorities, while generally tolerant of diverse religions, viewed Christians with suspicion due to their perceived "atheism" (for not worshipping Roman gods) and their exclusive allegiance to Christ. Peter's letter, therefore, provided crucial pastoral guidance on how to live honorably and maintain a clear conscience in such an environment, emphasizing that their suffering, if it came, should be a testament to their faith and not a consequence of criminal behavior ([1 Peter 4:15-16](/1_peter/4-15-16 "1 Peter 4:15-16 - Suffering as a Christian")).

* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of 1 Peter is Christian endurance and hope in the face of suffering. [1 Peter 3:17](/1_peter/3-17 "1 Peter 3:17 - Suffering for Well Doing") contributes significantly to several key themes. Firstly, it highlights the **distinction between suffering for righteousness and suffering for wrongdoing**, emphasizing that only the former brings honor and divine approval. Secondly, the phrase "if the will of God be so" underscores the theme of **divine sovereignty in suffering**, suggesting that even hardship can be part of God's purposeful plan for a believer's sanctification, witness, or ultimate glory. This perspective transforms seemingly meaningless pain into a potentially redemptive experience. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the importance of **Christian conduct as a powerful witness**, arguing that suffering for "well doing" validates one's faith and can shame accusers ([1 Peter 3:16](/1_peter/3-16 "1 Peter 3:16 - Maintaining a Good Conscience")). Finally, it implicitly connects to the theme of **imitating Christ**, who Himself suffered innocently and righteously, providing the ultimate model for believers ([1 Peter 2:21](/1_peter/2-21 "1 Peter 2:21 - Christ's Example of Suffering")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **better (Greek, _kreíttōn'_):** This word is a comparative adjective meaning "stronger," and figuratively, "nobler" or "superior." In this context, it signifies a profound qualitative difference. It's not merely "preferable" but fundamentally "more excellent," "more advantageous," or "more honorable." Suffering for well doing is not just a marginally better option; it is inherently and significantly superior in God's eyes and for the believer's spiritual state.
* **will (Greek, _thélēma'_):** Derived from a verb meaning "to determine" or "to choose," _thélēma_ refers to a "determination," "purpose," "decree," or "desire." When applied to God, it denotes His sovereign, active choice and intention. The phrase "if the will of God be so" does not imply a passive resignation but rather acknowledges that righteous suffering can, at times, be an active part of God's deliberate plan for His people, serving His greater purposes.
* **suffer (Greek, _páschō'_):** This primary verb means "to experience a sensation or impression," typically one that is painful. It encompasses a wide range of afflictions, hardships, and persecutions. Peter uses this word consistently throughout his epistle to describe the various trials and tribulations believers endure, emphasizing that such suffering is a real and often intense experience. Here, it highlights the tangible reality of the hardship faced by Christians.
* **well doing (Greek, _agathopoiéō'_):** This verb means "to be a well-doer," or "to do good." It refers to actively performing good deeds, living righteously, and conducting oneself in a morally excellent way that aligns with God's commands and Christ's example. It implies active, intentional virtue, not mere passive innocence.
* **evil doing (Greek, _kakopoiéō'_):** This verb means "to be a bad-doer," "to injure," or "to sin." It stands in direct contrast to "well doing," referring to actions that are morally wrong, harmful, or disobedient to God's law. Peter consistently warns against suffering for such actions, as it brings shame and lacks redemptive value.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For [it is] better,"**: This introductory phrase, connected by the particle "for" (G1063, _gár_), signals that what follows provides a reason or explanation for the preceding exhortations, particularly the call to maintain a good conscience ([1 Peter 3:16](/1_peter/3-16 "1 Peter 3:16 - Maintaining a Good Conscience")). The term "better" (G2909, _kreíttōn_) strongly emphasizes the qualitative superiority of one type of suffering over another, establishing the central thesis of the verse.
* **"if the will of God be so,"**: This conditional clause (G1487, _ei_) introduces divine sovereignty into the equation of suffering. It acknowledges that suffering is not always God's direct desire for His people, but when it does occur, particularly for righteousness, it can indeed be within His permissible or even active will (G2307, _thélēma_). This phrase provides comfort and purpose, suggesting that such suffering is not random but can serve a divine design.
* **"that ye suffer for well doing,"**: This clause defines the nature of the preferred suffering. Believers are encouraged to accept suffering (G3958, _páschō_) that arises as a direct consequence of their "well doing" (G15, _agathopoiéō_)—that is, living righteously, obeying God's commands, and exemplifying Christ-like character. This kind of suffering is presented as honorable and spiritually beneficial.
* **"than for evil doing."**: This final clause provides a stark contrast (G2228, _ḗ_) to the preceding one. Peter explicitly states that suffering for "evil doing" (G2554, _kakopoiéō_)—that is, for one's own sinful actions, misconduct, or criminal behavior—is far inferior and undesirable. Such suffering brings no commendation from God and often brings shame to the individual and the Christian community.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Contrast**, setting "well doing" against "evil doing" as the cause of suffering. This antithesis highlights the moral and spiritual distinction between two types of hardship, guiding believers on how to interpret and endure their trials. The phrase "if the will of God be so" functions as a **Conditional Clause**, introducing a nuance of divine sovereignty and purpose into the discussion of suffering. It suggests that while suffering itself may not always be God's direct desire, suffering for righteousness can indeed align with His broader redemptive plan. Furthermore, the use of "better" (G2909, _kreíttōn_) can be seen as a form of **Understatement** or **Litotes**, implying a profound superiority rather than a mere preference. It's not just "better" but fundamentally more noble, more blessed, and more aligned with the divine order. Peter's overall tone is **Didactic** and **Exhortative**, providing clear instruction and encouragement to his audience facing real-world challenges.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Peter 3:17 stands as a cornerstone for understanding the Christian perspective on suffering. It elevates suffering from a mere unfortunate circumstance to a potential arena for divine purpose and spiritual growth. Theologically, it underscores God's sovereignty, even over the hardships faced by His children, suggesting that righteous suffering is not outside His will but can be woven into His redemptive plan. It distinguishes between punitive suffering for sin, which is justly deserved, and redemptive suffering for righteousness, which aligns the believer with Christ's own experience and serves as a powerful witness. This verse calls believers to a radical self-examination, urging them to ensure that any tribulation they face is a consequence of their faithfulness, not their folly, thereby preserving their conscience and glorifying God.

* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are the Persecuted")
* [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ Through Suffering")
* [Philippians 1:29](/philippians/1-29 "Philippians 1:29 - Privileged to Suffer for Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse offers profound guidance for navigating life's inevitable difficulties. It compels us to a critical self-assessment: when we experience hardship, we are first called to examine its source. Is our suffering a consequence of our own sin, poor choices, or disobedience to God's commands? If so, the path forward is repentance and seeking God's forgiveness and restoration. However, if our suffering arises from our commitment to Christ, our pursuit of righteousness, or our stand for biblical truth in a hostile world, then this verse transforms our perspective. It assures us that such suffering, while painful, is not meaningless but can be part of God's sovereign will, serving to refine our character, deepen our faith, and provide a powerful testimony to unbelievers. Embracing this perspective allows us to find purpose in our pain, knowing that our "well doing" is seen and honored by God, even when it is reviled by the world. It encourages us to persevere in doing good, regardless of the cost, finding strength and comfort in the knowledge that our trials, when endured for Christ's sake, are ultimately "better."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I discern whether any suffering I am currently experiencing is a result of my "well doing" or "evil doing"?**
* **What comfort or challenge does the phrase "if the will of God be so" offer me in my current circumstances of hardship or potential suffering?**
* **In what practical ways can I ensure that my conduct consistently reflects "well doing," even when it might lead to opposition or discomfort?**

### FAQ
**Does God actively *want* us to suffer for "well doing"?**

Answer: The phrase "if the will of God be so" (G1487, _ei_ + G2307, _thélēma_) indicates that suffering for righteousness is not necessarily God's *primary* desire for every believer at all times, but rather that such suffering can indeed fall within His sovereign and permissible will. It suggests that God may allow or even ordain such suffering for higher purposes, such as purifying faith, strengthening character, or providing a powerful witness to the world. It is not suffering for suffering's sake, but suffering with a redemptive purpose, aligning with the pattern of Christ's own innocent suffering as seen in [1 Peter 2:21](/1_peter/2-21 "1 Peter 2:21 - Christ's Example of Suffering").

**What exactly constitutes "well doing" in the context of this verse?**

Answer: "Well doing" (G15, _agathopoiéō_) refers to actively living out Christian virtues and obeying God's commands. This includes, but is not limited to, maintaining a good conscience ([1 Peter 3:16](/1_peter/3-16 "1 Peter 3:16 - Maintaining a Good Conscience")), showing respect to authorities ([1 Peter 2:13-17](/1_peter/2-13-17 "1 Peter 2:13-17 - Submission to Governing Authorities")), living honorably among unbelievers ([1 Peter 2:12](/1_peter/2-12 "1 Peter 2:12 - Living Honorably Among Gentiles")), and being ready to give a defense for one's hope with gentleness and respect ([1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Be Ready to Give a Defense")). It encompasses a life characterized by moral excellence, love, and faithfulness to Christ, even when such a life invites opposition from a world hostile to God's ways.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Peter 3:17 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent example of one who suffered for "well doing," indeed, for perfect doing. Unlike humanity, who suffer for their own "evil doing" ([Romans 6:23](/romans/6-23 "Romans 6:23 - The Wages of Sin")), Christ "committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth" ([1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ's Sinlessness")). His suffering, culminating in the cross, was entirely for righteousness, a voluntary act of obedience to the Father's "will of God" ([Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Luke 22:42 - Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane")). His suffering was not punitive for His own sake, but redemptive for ours, as He "suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God" ([1 Peter 3:18](/1_peter/3-18 "1 Peter 3:18 - Christ's Suffering for Sins")). Thus, when believers suffer for "well doing" according to God's will, they are not merely enduring hardship; they are participating in the pattern of Christ's own blameless suffering ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")), bearing witness to His truth, and ultimately sharing in His glory ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ Through Suffering")). His perfect suffering for righteousness makes our suffering for righteousness meaningful, transforming it from a burden into a privilege that points back to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

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 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: