1 Peter 4:14

KJV

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy [are ye]; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

KJV (with Strong's)

If {G1487} ye be reproached {G3679} for {G1722} the name {G3686} of Christ {G5547}, happy {G3107} are ye; for {G3754} the spirit {G4151} of glory {G1391} and {G2532} of God {G2316} resteth {G373} upon {G1909} you {G5209}: on {G2596}{G3303} their part {G846} he is evil spoken of {G987}, but {G1161} on {G2596} your part {G5209} he is glorified {G1392}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If you are being insulted because you bear the name of the Messiah, how blessed you are! For the Spirit of the Sh’khinah, that is, the Spirit of God, is resting on you!

Berean Standard Bible

If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

American Standard Version

If ye are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are ye; because the Spirit of glory and the Spirit of God resteth upon you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 4:14 offers profound encouragement to believers enduring verbal abuse or social ostracism for their identification with Christ. It asserts that such reproach, far from being a misfortune, is a divine blessing, signifying the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit—the "Spirit of glory and of God"—resting upon them. This divine indwelling not only validates their suffering as righteous but also transforms the act of being reviled by unbelievers into an opportunity for Christ to be glorified through the steadfast witness of His followers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader section of 1 Peter (chapters 4-5) that addresses the reality and proper response to Christian suffering. Peter has just exhorted his readers not to be surprised by the "fiery trial" that tests their faith, but rather to "rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings" ([1 Peter 4:12-13](/1_peter/4-12-13 "1 Peter 4:12-13 - Rejoicing in Suffering")). Verse 14 specifically narrows the focus to suffering that manifests as verbal abuse or social dishonor directly "for the name of Christ," distinguishing it from suffering for wrongdoing ([1 Peter 4:15](/1_peter/4-15 "1 Peter 4:15 - Suffering for Righteousness")). It sets the stage for further instructions on living righteously amidst persecution and entrusting oneself to God ([1 Peter 4:16-19](/1_peter/4-16-19 "1 Peter 4:16-19 - Committing to God in Suffering")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's audience comprised scattered Christians in Asia Minor, likely facing increasing social pressure, slander, and localized persecution, even if not yet systematic state-sponsored persecution. Roman society valued honor and shame, and to be "reproached" or publicly shamed for one's beliefs was a deeply painful experience, often leading to social and economic marginalization. Christians were often misunderstood, accused of various crimes (like cannibalism or atheism, due to their refusal to worship Roman gods and their practice of communion), and viewed as a subversive group. Peter's words directly counter the cultural expectation that such public dishonor was a sign of divine disfavor, instead reinterpreting it as a mark of divine favor and the presence of God's Spirit.
* **Key Themes:** The central themes woven throughout this passage include the **blessedness of suffering for Christ** (echoing the Beatitudes, as seen in [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are the Persecuted")), the **validating and empowering presence of the Holy Spirit** in the midst of adversity, and the **ultimate glorification of Christ** through the faithful endurance of His followers. Peter consistently emphasizes that suffering, when experienced for righteousness' sake, is not a sign of God's abandonment but a participation in Christ's own suffering, leading to a share in His future glory ([1 Peter 5:10](/1_peter/5-10 "1 Peter 5:10 - God of All Grace")). The verse also highlights the **stark contrast between the world's perception and God's reality**, where what the world intends for harm, God uses for His glory and the believer's blessing.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **reproached (Greek, _oneidízō'_):** This term (G3679) means "to defame, rail at, chide, taunt, revile, or upbraid." It signifies verbal abuse, insult, or public dishonor. In the context of 1 Peter 4:14, it refers specifically to the scorn and verbal attacks Christians endured for their allegiance to Christ, which could include slander, mockery, or accusations.
* **happy (Greek, _makários'_):** Derived from a poetical form (G3107), this word means "supremely blest," "fortunate," or "well off." It describes a deep, inner blessedness or favor from God that is independent of external circumstances. It is the same term Jesus used in the Beatitudes ([Matthew 5:3-12](/matthew/5-3-12 "Matthew 5:3-12 - The Beatitudes")), indicating a state of divine approval and spiritual prosperity, even in the midst of suffering.
* **glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** This word (G1391) signifies "glory as very apparent," encompassing dignity, honor, praise, and worship. When applied to God, it refers to His inherent majesty, splendor, and manifest presence. In this verse, "the spirit of glory" points to the Holy Spirit, who embodies and conveys God's radiant presence and honor, resting upon believers and making them participants in divine glory even in their suffering.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If ye be reproached for the name of Christ":** This clause establishes the condition for the blessedness that follows. The "reproach" (verbal abuse, slander, public dishonor) is specifically tied to "the name of Christ," meaning it occurs because of one's identity with, allegiance to, or proclamation of Jesus as Lord. It distinguishes this suffering from that which comes from personal wrongdoing.
* **"happy [are ye];":** This declares the blessed state of those who meet the condition. Despite the pain and social stigma of reproach, Peter proclaims them "blessed" (makários), indicating a profound spiritual favor and inner joy bestowed by God, a state of divine approval that transcends earthly circumstances.
* **"for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you:":** This provides the theological reason for their blessedness. The "Spirit of glory and of God" refers to the Holy Spirit, who is glorious in nature and proceeds from God. His "resting upon" believers signifies a manifest, empowering, and comforting presence, confirming their divine election and validating their suffering as righteous. This indwelling Spirit is the source of their inner blessedness and strength.
* **"on their part he is evil spoken of,":** This clause describes the perspective and action of the persecutors (unbelievers). "He" refers to Christ. On the part of those who reproach believers, Christ Himself is "evil spoken of" or blasphemed (G987, _blasphēméō'_). Their verbal abuse of believers is an indirect attack on Christ and His name, demonstrating their hostility towards God.
* **"but on your part he is glorified.":** This presents a stark contrast to the previous clause and underscores the paradox of Christian suffering. While unbelievers revile Christ, the steadfastness, joy, and faithful endurance of believers under reproach lead to Christ being "glorified" (G1392, _doxázō'_). Their suffering becomes a platform for God's power and Christ's honor to be displayed, demonstrating the reality and transformative power of their faith to the world.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Antithesis** is central, contrasting the actions and intentions of the persecutors ("on their part he is evil spoken of") with the outcome for believers and for Christ ("but on your part he is glorified"). This stark opposition highlights the divine reversal of human perception. **Paradox** is also evident, as suffering and reproach, typically viewed as negative, are declared a source of "happiness" and "glory." The presence of the "Spirit of glory and of God" serves as a form of **Symbolism**, where the Spirit's indwelling is not merely a feeling but a tangible manifestation of God's presence and approval, a divine seal upon the persecuted. Furthermore, the phrase "for the name of Christ" functions as a **Metonymy**, where "name" stands for the entire person, character, and authority of Christ, emphasizing that the suffering is directly tied to one's allegiance to Him.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Peter 4:14 profoundly connects the experience of suffering for Christ with the active presence of the Holy Spirit and the ultimate glorification of God. It teaches that true blessedness is not found in the absence of hardship, but in the divine validation and empowerment received when one endures reproach for Christ's sake. This blessedness is a spiritual reality, a deep inner joy and assurance that stems from the indwelling "Spirit of glory and of God," who confirms the believer's identity and purpose. This transforms what the world intends as shame into a badge of honor, serving as a powerful witness that ultimately brings glory to Christ, even in the face of blasphemy from unbelievers.

* [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, Sufferers with Christ")
* [Philippians 1:29](/philippians/1-29 "Philippians 1:29 - Suffering for Christ is Granted")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world that often values comfort, acceptance, and worldly success, 1 Peter 4:14 provides a counter-cultural perspective on suffering. It challenges believers to reframe their understanding of reproach, not as a sign of failure or divine abandonment, but as a privileged participation in Christ's own experience and a clear indicator of the Holy Spirit's empowering presence. When we face ridicule, misunderstanding, or outright hostility for upholding biblical truths, for living counter-culturally, or for simply identifying as followers of Jesus, this verse reminds us that we are not alone. The "Spirit of glory and of God" rests upon us, enabling us to endure with joy and steadfastness. Our faithful response in such moments, far from diminishing Christ, actually magnifies Him, demonstrating the reality of His power and the depth of our commitment to Him to a watching world. This should inspire us to embrace opportunities to stand for Christ, knowing that even in our weakness, His strength is made perfect and His name is glorified.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I typically react when I face reproach or criticism for my faith?**
* **In what specific ways might the "Spirit of glory and of God" be resting upon me during times of spiritual challenge or opposition?**
* **How can my response to reproach for Christ's name bring glory to Him in my daily life?**
* **What specific truths from this verse can I cling to when I feel discouraged by opposition to my faith?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to be "reproached for the name of Christ"?**
Answer: To be "reproached for the name of Christ" means to experience verbal abuse, insult, slander, or social ostracism specifically because of your identity as a follower of Jesus, your allegiance to Him, or your public witness to His truth. It's suffering that is directly linked to your Christian faith, rather than to any wrongdoing on your part. This kind of suffering can manifest in various ways, from subtle mockery and social exclusion to overt verbal attacks and false accusations, all aimed at demeaning or discrediting Christ through His followers.

**How is suffering for Christ a cause for "happiness" or "blessedness"?**
Answer: Peter uses the Greek word _makários_ (G3107), which signifies a deep, spiritual blessedness or divine favor. This "happiness" is not a fleeting emotion but an enduring state of inner joy and spiritual well-being that comes from God. It is a blessedness that transcends external circumstances, rooted in the knowledge that your suffering aligns you with Christ ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")) and confirms the validating presence of the Holy Spirit. It's a sign that you are truly God's child and that His Spirit is actively at work in you, even in the midst of adversity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Peter 4:14 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Himself, who perfectly embodied the principle of suffering reproach for the glory of God. Jesus was supremely "reproached for the name of Christ" (His own name, as the Messiah), enduring slander, false accusations, and public humiliation throughout His ministry and culminating in His crucifixion ([Psalm 69:9](/psalm/69-9 "Psalm 69:9 - Zeal for Your House Consumes Me") is applied to Christ's reproach in [Romans 15:3](/romans/15-3 "Romans 15:3 - Christ Did Not Please Himself")). Yet, in His suffering, the "Spirit of glory and of God" truly rested upon Him, empowering Him to endure and fulfill His redemptive mission. His steadfastness under reproach, far from diminishing Him, brought ultimate glory to God the Father and established His own eternal glory as the resurrected Lord ([Philippians 2:8-11](/philippians/2-8-11 "Philippians 2:8-11 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). Thus, when believers are reproached for Christ's name, they are not merely imitating Him but are truly participating in His sufferings ([1 Peter 4:13](/1_peter/4-13 "1 Peter 4:13 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")), becoming living testimonies to His enduring power and His ability to transform shame into glory. Our suffering, empowered by the same Spirit who rested on Christ, becomes a means by which the world, which "evil speaks" of Him, is confronted with His undeniable glory, manifested through His faithful people.

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;

Luke 6:22

Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you [from their company], and shall reproach [you], and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.

James 1:12

Blessed [is] the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

Matthew 5:11

Blessed are ye, when [men] shall revile you, and persecute [you], and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

1 Peter 3:16

¶ Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

Psalms 146:5

¶ Happy [is he] that [hath] the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope [is] in the LORD his God:

1 Peter 2:19

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