1 Peter 4:15

KJV

But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or [as] a thief, or [as] an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1063} let {G3958} none {G3361}{G5100} of you {G5216} suffer {G3958} as {G5613} a murderer {G5406}, or {G2228} as a thief {G2812}, or {G2228} as an evildoer {G2555}, or {G2228} as {G5613} a busybody in other men's matters {G244}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Let none of you suffer for being a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or a meddler in other people’s affairs.

Berean Standard Bible

Indeed, none of you should suffer as a murderer or thief or wrongdoer, or even as a meddler.

American Standard Version

For let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil-doer, or as a meddler in other men’s matters:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 4:15 serves as a crucial ethical demarcation within Peter's larger discourse on Christian suffering, emphatically instructing believers that while suffering for righteousness is a mark of honor and participation in Christ's glory, any hardship endured as a consequence of criminal acts or disruptive meddling is entirely shameful and contrary to the Christian calling. It calls for a rigorous self-examination concerning the true source of one's afflictions, distinguishing between persecution for faith and punishment for transgression.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a significant section of Peter's epistle (1 Peter 4:12-19) that directly addresses the reality of suffering for Christians. Peter has just exhorted his readers to "not think it strange concerning the fiery trial" but instead to "rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings" ([1 Peter 4:12-13](/1-peter/4-12-13 "1 Peter 4:12-13 - Rejoicing in Suffering")). He emphasizes that suffering "for the name of Christ" brings blessing and the Spirit of glory rests upon them ([1 Peter 4:14](/1-peter/4-14 "1 Peter 4:14 - Blessed for Christ's Name")). Verse 15 then introduces a sharp, vital contrast: the suffering previously discussed is *righteous* suffering, distinct from suffering that arises from one's own sin. This distinction is critical for Peter's argument, as he wants believers to understand that not all suffering is redemptive or honorable. He then concludes this section by noting that judgment begins with the house of God, reinforcing the need for righteous living ([1 Peter 4:17](/1-peter/4-17 "1 Peter 4:17 - Judgment Begins with God's Household")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter is writing to scattered believers in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), who were facing increasing social hostility and, in some cases, official persecution. This context of external pressure made it imperative for Christians to maintain impeccable conduct, not only for their witness but also to avoid giving legitimate cause for accusations. The Roman legal system, while often harsh, generally distinguished between criminal offenses and religious practices. For Christians to suffer as "murderers" or "thieves" would align them with common criminals, bringing disgrace upon the name of Christ and undermining their claims of moral superiority. The inclusion of "busybody" (ἀλλοτριεπίσκοπος) suggests an internal community issue, perhaps related to the social dynamics of early house churches where close-knit communities could lead to intrusive behavior, or even accusations of disloyalty to the state by meddling in affairs deemed outside their purview.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme in this section of 1 Peter is the **nature and purpose of Christian suffering**. Peter is meticulously clarifying that suffering is not inherently good; its value depends entirely on its cause. He champions **suffering for righteousness** as a pathway to glorifying God and sharing in Christ's experience, contrasting it sharply with **suffering for sin**, which brings shame and judgment. This highlights the vital importance of **Christian ethics and conduct**, emphasizing that believers are called to live blameless lives that reflect the holiness of God. The specific prohibitions in [1 Peter 4:15](/1-peter/4-15 "1 Peter 4:15 - Suffering for Righteousness, Not Sin") underscore the **personal accountability** of each believer before God and before the watching world, reinforcing the call to holiness found throughout the epistle, such as in [1 Peter 1:15-16](/1-peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy, for I Am Holy").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **suffer (Greek, _páschō'_):** This primary verb signifies "to experience a sensation or impression, usually painful." In this context, it refers to enduring hardship, affliction, or punishment. Peter uses this same verb repeatedly in his epistle to describe both the suffering of Christ and the suffering of believers, emphasizing its often painful and challenging nature. Here, the nuance is that while suffering is a part of the Christian life, it must not be a consequence of self-inflicted harm through sin.
* **evildoer (Greek, _kakopoiós'_):** Derived from `kakós` (bad) and `poiéō` (to do), this term literally means "a bad-doer" or "one who practices evil." It refers to a criminal or malefactor, someone who commits harmful or wicked deeds. Peter uses this term to categorize a broad spectrum of unlawful or morally reprehensible actions, distinguishing them from actions that are righteous but may be misunderstood or persecuted.
* **busybody in other men's matters (Greek, _allotriepískopos'_):** This unique compound word is formed from `allótrios` (belonging to another, foreign) and `epískopos` (overseer, bishop). It literally means "one who oversees or meddles in others' affairs." It describes someone who is officious, intrusive, or self-appointed to supervise or interfere in the lives and business of others. Its inclusion alongside serious crimes like murder and theft highlights the significant disruption and harm that such intrusive behavior can inflict upon a community, potentially leading to strife, division, and a negative witness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But let none of you suffer":** The opening conjunction "But" (G1063, _gar_) introduces a sharp contrast to the preceding verses, signaling a shift from honorable suffering for Christ to dishonorable suffering for wrongdoing. The imperative "let none of you suffer" (G3958, _paschō_) is a strong prohibition, urging believers to actively avoid circumstances where their suffering is a result of their own sin.
* **"as a murderer, or [as] a thief, or [as] an evildoer":** This clause lists specific, serious criminal offenses. "Murderer" (G5406, _phoneús_) and "thief" (G2812, _kléptēs_) are clear violations of the Ten Commandments and universal moral codes. "Evildoer" (G2555, _kakopoiós_) serves as a broader category, encompassing any form of criminal or malicious activity that brings harm to others or society. These examples establish a clear baseline of unacceptable conduct for Christians.
* **"or as a busybody in other men's matters":** This final prohibition, "busybody in other men's matters" (G244, _allotriepískopos_), stands out. While not a criminal offense in the same legal sense as murder or theft, Peter places it in the same context of suffering-inducing misconduct. It refers to meddling, officiousness, or inappropriate interference in the personal affairs or responsibilities of others. This behavior, though seemingly less severe, can be deeply destructive to community harmony, trust, and the reputation of believers, leading to legitimate negative consequences or even legal entanglements.

#### Literary Devices
Peter employs several effective literary devices in [1 Peter 4:15](/1-peter/4-15 "1 Peter 4:15 - Suffering for Righteousness, Not Sin") to convey his urgent message. The primary device is **Juxtaposition**, where he sharply contrasts the "suffering for Christ" discussed in the preceding verses with the "suffering as a wrongdoer" presented here. This creates a clear ethical boundary for his readers. The list of offenses—murderer, thief, evildoer, busybody—is an example of **Enumeration**, providing concrete, escalating examples of behavior to be avoided. The progression from overt criminal acts to the more subtle, yet equally disruptive, "busybody" highlights the comprehensive nature of Peter's ethical demands. The use of the comparative particle "as" (G5613, _hōs_) before each offense functions as a **Simile**, emphasizing the *manner* or *reason* for suffering. It's not just about the act itself, but the identity one takes on through such an act, bringing shame rather than honor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Peter 4:15 powerfully articulates a core New Testament theological principle: the distinction between righteous suffering and suffering for sin. While believers are called to endure hardship and persecution for their faith, participating in the sufferings of Christ, they are simultaneously commanded to live lives of impeccable moral integrity. This verse underscores that God is not glorified by suffering that is a direct consequence of one's own disobedience, malice, or social disruption. It reinforces the idea that Christian liberty is not a license for licentiousness, but rather a call to higher ethical standards that reflect the character of a holy God. The inclusion of "busybody" alongside major crimes reveals that even seemingly minor social transgressions can have significant spiritual and communal repercussions, leading to unnecessary suffering and discrediting the gospel.

* [Romans 6:23](/romans/6-23 "Romans 6:23 - The Wages of Sin")
* [1 Thessalonians 4:11](/1-thessalonians/4-11 "1 Thessalonians 4:11 - Live Quietly and Mind Your Own Business")
* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed Are Those Persecuted for Righteousness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Peter 4:15 compels us to deeply examine the source of our difficulties and trials. In a world where suffering is inevitable, this verse challenges us to discern whether our hardships are a result of our faithfulness to Christ and His kingdom, or a direct consequence of our own sinful choices, negligence, or intrusive behavior. It calls us to personal accountability, reminding us that while God can redeem even our failures, He desires our obedience and integrity. This passage is a powerful call to live blamelessly, not only to avoid unnecessary suffering but, more importantly, to honor God and present a credible witness to a watching world. It encourages us to focus on our own spiritual walk and responsibilities, rather than becoming entangled in the affairs of others in a way that causes strife or dishonor.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When I face difficulties, do I immediately blame external circumstances, or do I first consider if my own actions or attitudes have contributed to the problem?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be acting as a "busybody," meddling in matters that are not my concern and potentially causing division or offense?**
* **How can I ensure that any suffering I endure is for the sake of Christ and righteousness, rather than a consequence of my own sin or poor judgment?**

### FAQ

**What does "busybody in other men's matters" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: The Greek word _allotriepískopos_ (G244) literally means "an overseer of others' affairs" or "one who meddles in what does not concern them." It's more than casual curiosity or helpful advice; it implies an intrusive, officious, or self-appointed interference in the personal lives, business, or responsibilities of others. This could manifest as gossip, spreading rumors, unwarranted criticism, or taking on roles and responsibilities that are not one's own, often leading to division, strife, and a lack of focus on one's own spiritual walk. Peter places it alongside serious crimes to highlight its destructive potential within the community and its capacity to bring shame upon the Christian name, leading to legitimate suffering or negative consequences. This concept is echoed in other New Testament passages that encourage quiet living and tending to one's own affairs, such as [1 Thessalonians 4:11](/1-thessalonians/4-11 "1 Thessalonians 4:11 - Live Quietly and Mind Your Own Business").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Peter 4:15, while a strong ethical injunction, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the stark contrast it draws with the sinless suffering of Jesus. Christ Himself "suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth" ([1 Peter 2:21-22](/1-peter/2-21-22 "1 Peter 2:21-22 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). Our Lord's suffering was never for His own wrongdoing, but always for righteousness, specifically as 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")). He bore our sins in His own body on the tree ([1 Peter 2:24](/1-peter/2-24 "1 Peter 2:24 - Christ Bore Our Sins")), demonstrating the ultimate righteous suffering that redeems us from the very categories of sin Peter lists: murder (through hatred, [Matthew 5:21-22](/matthew/5-21-22 "Matthew 5:21-22 - Anger and Murder")), theft (through covetousness, [Luke 12:15](/luke/12-15 "Luke 12:15 - Beware of Covetousness")), and all forms of evildoing. Therefore, when Peter commands us not to suffer as a murderer or evildoer, he is calling us to reflect the sinless character of Christ, whose suffering was purely redemptive. Our ability to avoid suffering for sin comes directly from our union with Him, who has freed us from the dominion of sin and empowered us by His Spirit to live righteously, so that any suffering we do endure might be "for righteousness' sake" and thus bring glory to His name ([1 Peter 3:14](/1-peter/3-14 "1 Peter 3:14 - Suffering for Righteousness")).

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

2 Thessalonians 3:11

For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.

1 Thessalonians 4:11

And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

1 Timothy 5:13

And withal they learn [to be] idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.

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.

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.

2 Timothy 2:9

Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, [even] unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.