1 Peter 4:16

KJV

Yet if [any man suffer] as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

KJV (with Strong's)

Yet {G1161} if {G1487} any man suffer as {G5613} a Christian {G5546}, let him {G153} not {G3361} be ashamed {G153}; but {G1161} let him glorify {G1392} God {G2316} on {G1722} this {G5129} behalf {G3313}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But if anyone suffers for being Messianic, let him not be ashamed; but let him bring glory to God by the way he bears this name.

Berean Standard Bible

But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.

American Standard Version

but if a man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this name.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 4:16 provides a profound directive to believers facing persecution for their faith: rather than succumbing to shame, they are to embrace their identity as followers of Christ and, through their steadfast endurance, bring glory to God. This verse distinguishes suffering for righteousness from suffering for wrongdoing, emphasizing that trials endured specifically for one's Christian commitment are not only expected but also serve as a unique opportunity for divine testimony and honor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader section of Peter's epistle (beginning around [1 Peter 4:12](/1_peter/4-12 "1 Peter 4:12 - Fiery Trials Expected")) where he addresses the reality of suffering for believers. He urges his audience not to be surprised by the "fiery trial" that comes upon them, but rather to rejoice in their participation in Christ's sufferings ([1 Peter 4:13](/1_peter/4-13 "1 Peter 4:13 - Rejoice in Suffering")). Crucially, Peter draws a sharp distinction between suffering as a Christian for doing good and suffering as a consequence of sin ([1 Peter 4:15](/1_peter/4-15 "1 Peter 4:15 - Suffering for Wrongdoing")). Verse 16 directly follows this distinction, offering a positive command for how to respond when suffering falls into the former category—that is, suffering specifically "as a Christian." The flow of thought moves from the inevitability of suffering, to the proper perspective on it, and finally to the appropriate response.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's audience comprised scattered believers in Asia Minor, living under the Roman Empire. During this period, Christians were often viewed with suspicion by the Roman authorities and populace. Their refusal to participate in emperor worship or the traditional Roman cults led to accusations of atheism, disloyalty, and even various societal ills. While systematic, empire-wide persecution had not yet fully begun (that would come later under Nero, Domitian, etc.), local and sporadic persecution was common. Christians could face social ostracism, economic hardship, false accusations, and even physical violence. The term "Christian" (Greek: _Christianos_) itself was likely initially a derogatory label coined by outsiders, first used in Antioch ([Acts 11:26](/acts/11-26 "Acts 11:26 - Disciples First Called Christians")). Peter's use of it here, embracing it as an honorable designation, reflects the early church's resolve to own their identity in Christ despite the societal cost.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of [1 Peter](/1_peter/1 "First Peter - Hope in Suffering") is hope in the midst of suffering. Within this, several sub-themes emerge in chapter 4, culminating in verse 16. These include the **identity of the believer** as one united with Christ, even in His sufferings ([1 Peter 4:13](/1_peter/4-13 "1 Peter 4:13 - Partakers of Christ's Sufferings")). Another key theme is the **distinction between righteous and unrighteous suffering**, emphasizing that suffering for Christ's sake is honorable and brings blessing ([1 Peter 4:14](/1_peter/4-14 "1 Peter 4:14 - Blessed When Reproached for Christ")). Finally, the verse powerfully highlights the theme of **glorifying God through trials**, transforming what might seem like a negative experience into an opportunity for divine praise and witness. This call to glorify God even in adversity echoes the broader biblical mandate for believers to live lives that honor God in all circumstances ([1 Corinthians 10:31](/1_corinthians/10-31 "1 Corinthians 10:31 - Do All to the Glory of God")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Christian (Greek, _Christianós'_):** From Χριστός (Christos), meaning "a follower of Christ." This term, likely initially a pejorative label, is here affirmed by Peter as a legitimate and honorable designation for believers. It signifies belonging to Christ, being identified with Him, and adhering to His teachings and person. To suffer "as a Christian" means to suffer precisely because of this identity and allegiance.
* **ashamed (Greek, _aischýnomai'_):** From (disfigurement, i.e., disgrace); "to feel shame (for oneself)." This word conveys the sense of being disgraced, humiliated, or feeling a sense of ignominy. Peter commands believers not to experience or display this feeling when their suffering is directly linked to their Christian identity, implying that such suffering is a badge of honor, not a cause for disgrace.
* **glorify (Greek, _doxázō'_):** From δόξα (doxa), meaning "to render (or esteem) glorious (in a wide application)." To glorify God means to give Him honor, praise, and recognition, to magnify His name, and to reflect His inherent glory. In the context of suffering, it implies that a believer's steadfastness, faith, and proper attitude in the face of persecution can uniquely reveal God's power, grace, and faithfulness to a watching world.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Yet if any man suffer as a Christian":** This clause sets the specific condition for the subsequent commands. It refers to suffering that is a direct consequence of one's identity as a follower of Jesus Christ, distinguishing it from suffering that results from personal wrongdoing or general human hardship. The "if" (G1487, _ei_) here indicates a real possibility or expected occurrence, not a hypothetical one.
* **"let him not be ashamed":** This is a direct imperative. Despite the social stigma, ridicule, or physical pain that might accompany suffering for Christ, the believer is commanded to resist any feeling or outward display of shame. This implies a confident embrace of one's identity in Christ, viewing such suffering as a privilege rather than a disgrace.
* **"but let him glorify God on this behalf":** This is the positive command that contrasts with the negative one. Instead of shame, the response should be to glorify God. "On this behalf" (G1722 _en_ G5129 _toútōi_ G3313 _méros_) means "in this respect" or "on account of this very thing"—that is, on account of suffering as a Christian. The suffering itself becomes the occasion for God's glory to be manifested through the believer's faithful endurance, witness, and unwavering trust.

#### Literary Devices
Peter effectively employs **Contrast** in this verse, setting the expected human reaction of shame against the divinely commanded response of glorifying God. This highlights the counter-cultural nature of Christian suffering. There is also a strong element of **Exhortation**, as Peter issues direct commands ("let him not be ashamed," "let him glorify God"). The verse also contains **Affirmation** of the Christian identity; by using the term "Christian" and commanding a response of glory rather than shame, Peter validates and elevates this identity despite its cost in the world. Finally, there is a subtle **Paradox** at play: suffering, typically seen as negative, is reframed as an opportunity for profound spiritual good and divine honor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse deeply connects to the broader biblical theology of suffering, which is never presented as meaningless but often as a crucible for faith, a means of sanctification, and an avenue for God's glory. It underscores that identification with Christ inherently includes participation in His sufferings, mirroring His path from rejection to exaltation. For the believer, suffering for Christ is not a sign of God's displeasure but often a mark of His favor and a confirmation of genuine discipleship, allowing the believer to demonstrate the reality of their faith and the sustaining power of God's grace to a watching world. This glorification of God through suffering is a powerful witness, transforming pain into praise.

* [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ, Sufferers with Him"): "And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together."
* [Philippians 1:29](/philippians/1-29 "Philippians 1:29 - Privilege to Suffer for Christ"): "For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake."
* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are the Persecuted"): "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Peter 4:16 offers a timeless and counter-cultural challenge to believers. In a world that often values comfort and avoids hardship, this verse calls us to embrace suffering when it comes as a direct result of our allegiance to Christ. It compels us to examine the nature of our suffering: is it a consequence of our own sin or foolishness, or is it truly "as a Christian" for living out our faith? When it is the latter, we are called not to shrink back in embarrassment or fear, but to stand firm, allowing our trials to become a platform for God's glory. This means cultivating a mindset that sees persecution not as a setback, but as a unique opportunity to demonstrate the unwavering power of God in our lives, to bear witness to His truth, and to affirm our profound identity in Him, regardless of the cost. Our patient endurance, forgiveness, and continued faithfulness in the face of adversity can be the most potent sermon we ever preach.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I typically react when my faith causes me discomfort or social disapproval?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to hide or minimize my Christian identity to avoid potential suffering?**
* **What does it practically look like to "glorify God" when facing hardship specifically because of my faith?**
* **How can I distinguish between suffering for Christ's sake and suffering due to my own poor choices?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to "suffer as a Christian" in today's world?**

Answer: To "suffer as a Christian" means to experience hardship, opposition, or negative consequences specifically because of one's identification with Jesus Christ and adherence to His teachings. While outright physical persecution may be less common in some parts of the world than in Peter's time, "suffering as a Christian" can manifest in various forms today. This might include social ostracism, ridicule, professional disadvantage, discrimination in education or employment, being marginalized for upholding biblical values (e.g., on marriage, sexuality, or truth), or facing legal challenges for expressing one's faith. It refers to any adversity directly attributable to one's commitment to Christ, as opposed to suffering that comes from personal wrongdoing or general life difficulties ([1 Peter 4:15](/1_peter/4-15 "1 Peter 4:15 - Suffering for Wrongdoing")). The core idea is that the suffering is a direct result of bearing the name of Christ and living consistently with that name.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Peter 4:16 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Our suffering "as a Christian" is a direct participation in the pattern of Christ's own life, who suffered unjustly and yet glorified God through His obedience unto death ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). Jesus Himself endured shame and reproach, despising its sting for the joy set before Him ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")). When we suffer for His name, we are not merely imitating Him, but are mystically united with Him, sharing in His afflictions for the sake of His body, the church ([Colossians 1:24](/colossians/1-24 "Colossians 1:24 - Suffering for Christ's Body")). Our ability to endure without shame and to glorify God in the midst of adversity is a testament to the power of Christ living within us ([Galatians 2:20](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Christ Lives in Me")). Ultimately, our suffering for Christ foreshadows our future glory with Him ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ, Sufferers with Him")), demonstrating that the path of the cross, though painful, is the very path to resurrection and eternal honor, mirroring the glorious triumph of our Lord.

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 3:17

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

1 Peter 3:18

¶ For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

Philippians 1:29

For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

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.

James 1:2

¶ My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

James 1:4

But let patience have [her] perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

2 Timothy 1:12

For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.