1 Peter 3:6

KJV

Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.

KJV (with Strong's)

Even as {G5613} Sara {G4564} obeyed {G5219} Abraham {G11}, calling {G2564} him {G846} lord {G2962}: whose {G3739} daughters {G5043} ye are {G1096}, as long as ye do well {G15}, and {G2532} are {G5399} not {G3361} afraid {G5399} with any {G3367} amazement {G4423}.

Complete Jewish Bible

the way Sarah obeyed Avraham, honoring him as her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not succumb to fear.

Berean Standard Bible

just as Sarah obeyed Abraham and called him lord. And you are her children if you do what is right and refuse to give way to fear.

American Standard Version

as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose children ye now are, if ye do well, and are not put in fear by any terror.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 3:6 continues the apostle Peter's instruction to Christian wives, particularly those married to unbelievers, by presenting Sarah as a paradigmatic example of reverent submission and inner strength. It highlights that true spiritual daughtership to Sarah is demonstrated not by outward conformity, but by a life characterized by good deeds, respectful conduct, and an unwavering, fearless trust in God, even amidst challenging circumstances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Peter's broader exhortation on Christian conduct within various societal relationships, specifically focusing on the household code in [1 Peter 2:13](/1-peter/2-13 "1 Peter 2:13 - Christian Conduct in Society and the Household"). Following instructions for submission to governing authorities ([1 Peter 2:13](/1-peter/2-13 "1 Peter 2:13 - Submission to Authority")), and servants to masters ([1 Peter 2:18](/1-peter/2-18 "1 Peter 2:18 - Servants and Suffering")), Peter transitions to wives and husbands in [1 Peter 3:1](/1-peter/3-1 "1 Peter 3:1 - Wives and Husbands"). Within this section, [1 Peter 3:1](/1-peter/3-1 "1 Peter 3:1 - Wives' Conduct and Inner Beauty") emphasizes that wives can win over unbelieving husbands through their chaste and respectful conduct, rather than outward adornment. Verse 6 then provides a concrete, historical example in Sarah, reinforcing the qualities of inner beauty and fearless trust that are "precious in the sight of God" ([1 Peter 3:4](/1-peter/3-4 "1 Peter 3:4 - The Value of a Gentle and Quiet Spirit")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Roman and Jewish societies were highly patriarchal, with women generally holding a subordinate position. Marriage was a foundational institution, and a wife's submission to her husband was a widely accepted norm. For early Christian wives, especially those married to non-believers, adhering to their new faith could create significant tension within the household, potentially leading to social ostracism or even danger. Peter's advice, therefore, was not to disrupt the social order through overt rebellion, but to transform it from within through exemplary Christian character. By referencing Sarah, a venerated figure in both Jewish and early Christian tradition, Peter grounds his instruction in a familiar and respected historical precedent, making his call for respectful submission and inner fortitude culturally resonant yet spiritually revolutionary.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching themes in [1 Peter 3](/1-peter/3 "1 Peter 3 - Christian Conduct and Suffering") include the importance of Christian conduct as a witness, the value of inner character over external appearance, and the call to suffer for righteousness' sake with a Christ-like attitude. Specifically within [1 Peter 3:1](/1-peter/3-1 "1 Peter 3:1 - Wives and Husbands"), Peter develops themes of **respectful submission**, emphasizing that a wife's conduct can be a powerful evangelistic tool for her unbelieving husband ([1 Peter 3:1](/1-peter/3-1 "1 Peter 3:1 - Wives' Conduct as a Witness")). He contrasts fleeting physical beauty with the enduring spiritual beauty of a "gentle and quiet spirit" ([1 Peter 3:3](/1-peter/3-3 "1 Peter 3:3 - Inner Beauty vs. Outward Adornment")), which is "precious in the sight of God." Verse 6 directly contributes to the theme of **exemplary living** by offering Sarah as a model of faithful obedience and courage, linking the concept of spiritual lineage to practical, virtuous living. It also underscores the theme of **courage in the face of adversity**, encouraging believers not to be "afraid with any amazement" when facing trials or opposition.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **obeyed (Greek, _hypakoúō'_):** Derived from _hypó_ (under) and _akoúō_ (to hear), this word literally means "to hear under" or "to listen attentively." By implication, it signifies to heed or conform to a command or authority. In the context of Sarah, it describes her respectful deference and compliance with Abraham's leadership, not as a sign of weakness, but as an act of trust and alignment within their God-ordained relationship.
* **lord (Greek, _kýrios'_):** This term signifies supremacy in authority, a controller, or master. As a respectful title, it acknowledges the husband's headship within the marital covenant. Sarah's use of "lord" for Abraham ([Genesis 18:12](/genesis/18-12 "Genesis 18:12 - Sarah's Laughter and Response")) was not merely a cultural formality but an expression of her inner disposition of honor and respect towards her husband, even in private thought.
* **amazement (Greek, _ptóēsis'_):** This word denotes alarm, fright, or panic. It describes a state of being utterly startled, terrified, or thrown into fear. Peter uses this term to encourage Christian women (and by extension, all believers) not to succumb to overwhelming fear or anxiety in the face of difficult circumstances, but to maintain a calm and steady demeanor rooted in their faith and trust in God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord:"** This clause sets up Sarah as the exemplary model. Her obedience to Abraham, specifically highlighted by her respectful address of him as "lord," is presented as a concrete manifestation of the "gentle and quiet spirit" previously commended by Peter. This obedience is not servile but a reflection of her inner disposition and trust in God's ordering of relationships. The reference to [Genesis 18:12](/genesis/18-12 "Genesis 18:12 - Sarah's Private Thoughts") underscores that this reverence was deeply seated, even in her private thoughts.
* **"whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well,"** This phrase establishes a spiritual lineage. Christian women who emulate Sarah's virtuous conduct and inner character are affirmed as her true spiritual descendants. The condition "as long as ye do well" emphasizes that this spiritual daughtership is not merely a title but is demonstrated through consistent, righteous actions and a lifestyle that honors God. It's an active, ongoing commitment to good behavior.
* **"and are not afraid with any amazement."** This final clause provides a crucial qualification and exhortation. It calls Christian women to cultivate a deep, abiding peace and courage that prevents them from being easily terrified, panicked, or thrown into disarray by challenging circumstances, opposition, or the uncertainties of life. This inner fortitude, a lack of "amazement" or sudden fright, is a hallmark of a woman whose trust is firmly placed in God, allowing her to act with composure and faith.

#### Literary Devices
Peter employs several literary devices in [1 Peter 3:6](/1-peter/3-6 "1 Peter 3:6 - Sarah as an Example of Godly Conduct"). Foremost is **Allusion**, specifically to the Old Testament matriarch Sarah. By referencing her obedience to Abraham and her calling him "lord" ([Genesis 18:12](/genesis/18-12 "Genesis 18:12 - Sarah's Laughter")), Peter provides a concrete, historical, and highly respected example for his audience to emulate. This allusion serves as a powerful rhetorical tool, grounding his theological instruction in a familiar narrative. He also uses **Metaphor** when he states, "whose daughters ye are." This is not a literal biological lineage but a spiritual one, implying that Christian women who exhibit Sarah's virtues are her spiritual heirs, embodying her character and faith. Finally, there is a clear **Contrast** between "doing well" and "not afraid with any amazement." This highlights the inner peace and courage that should characterize believers, standing in opposition to fear, panic, and anxiety, especially in the face of adversity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Peter 3:6 powerfully connects the Old Testament narrative of Sarah to the New Testament call for Christian character, particularly for women. It elevates inner disposition and conduct over external appearance, asserting that true beauty and spiritual lineage are evidenced by respectful submission and unwavering courage rooted in faith. The theological implication is that God values a heart that trusts Him and acts righteously, even when circumstances are difficult or relationships are strained. This passage underscores the transformative power of a godly life lived out in practical ways, serving as a silent yet potent witness to the power of the gospel. It teaches that genuine spiritual freedom is found not in rebellion against established order, but in a fearless, God-honoring demeanor that reflects Christ's own submission and trust in the Father.

* [Proverbs 31:30](/proverbs/31-30 "Proverbs 31:30 - Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.")
* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [Hebrews 11:11](/hebrews/11-11 "Hebrews 11:11 - Sarah's Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Peter 3:6 offers profound guidance for believers today, particularly regarding the cultivation of inner character and the demonstration of faith in daily life. It challenges us to consider where we place our trust and what truly defines our identity. For women, it redefines beauty not as outward adornment, but as the enduring, gentle, and courageous spirit that is precious to God. This passage encourages us to live with intentionality, recognizing that our actions and attitudes, especially in challenging relationships or circumstances, are a powerful testament to our faith. It calls us to embody a quiet strength, free from the panic and anxiety that so often grip the world, demonstrating a deep reliance on God's sovereignty and care. This fearless living is not a denial of difficulty but a profound expression of peace that comes from knowing God is in control.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you find yourself easily "afraid with any amazement," and how might cultivating a deeper trust in God help you overcome these fears?**
* **How can the principle of "doing well" (agathopoieō) be practically applied in your daily interactions, especially in challenging relationships, to reflect Christ's character?**
* **What does it mean for you to be a "daughter of Sarah" (or a "son of Abraham" by extension), and how does your life demonstrate this spiritual lineage?**

### FAQ
**Does "obeyed Abraham, calling him lord" imply that wives must be subservient or submissive in an unhealthy way?**

Answer: No, the passage does not advocate for unhealthy subservience or the suppression of a wife's identity or voice. Peter's instruction should be understood within the broader biblical context of mutual respect and love within marriage ([Ephesians 5:21](/ephesians/5-21 "Ephesians 5:21 - Wives, Husbands, and Christ and the Church")). Sarah's obedience and respectful address of Abraham as "lord" ([Genesis 18:12](/genesis/18-12 "Genesis 18:12 - Sarah's Private Thoughts")) are presented as an example of her reverent disposition and trust, not as a command for absolute, unquestioning subservience. It speaks to a respectful recognition of the husband's role as head of the household, a concept that, when rightly understood and applied with Christ-like love and humility by both spouses, fosters order and harmony. The emphasis is on the inner attitude of respect and a willingness to cooperate, which is "precious in the sight of God" ([1 Peter 3:4](/1-peter/3-4 "1 Peter 3:4 - The Value of a Gentle and Quiet Spirit")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Peter 3:6 presents Sarah as a model of godly conduct for women, its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning are found in Christ. Sarah's obedience, even in private thought, foreshadows the perfect and ultimate obedience of Jesus, who "humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!" ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). Her courageous lack of "amazement" in the face of uncertainty points to the profound peace and unwavering trust that Christ exemplified, even as He faced the cross ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus' Peace")). Christian women become "daughters of Sarah" not merely by imitating her actions, but by being united with Christ through faith, thereby participating in His character and receiving His Spirit. It is through Christ that believers are empowered to "do well" and to live "not afraid with any amazement," for "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" ([2 Timothy 1:7](/2-timothy/1-7 "2 Timothy 1:7 - Spirit of Power, Love, and Sound Mind")). Thus, Sarah's example becomes a tangible expression of the Christ-like character that the Holy Spirit cultivates in all who belong to Him, enabling them to live lives of courageous faith and humble submission, reflecting the glory 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

Genesis 18:12

Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?

Romans 9:7

Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, [are they] all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called.

Romans 9:9

For this [is] the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son.

Daniel 3:16

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we [are] not careful to answer thee in this matter.

Daniel 3:18

But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

Isaiah 57:11

And of whom hast thou been afraid or feared, that thou hast lied, and hast not remembered me, nor laid [it] to thy heart? have not I held my peace even of old, and thou fearest me not?

Acts 4:19

But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.