1 Peter 5:9

KJV

Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

KJV (with Strong's)

Whom {G3739} resist {G436} stedfast {G4731} in the faith {G4102}, knowing {G1492} that the same {G846} afflictions {G3804} are accomplished {G2005} in your {G5216} brethren {G81} that are in {G1722} the world {G2889}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Stand against him, firm in your trust, knowing that your brothers throughout the world are going through the same kinds of suffering.

Berean Standard Bible

Resist him, standing firm in your faith and in the knowledge that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering.

American Standard Version

whom withstand stedfast in your faith, knowing that the same sufferings are accomplished in your brethren who are in the world.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 5:9 serves as a potent exhortation for believers to stand firm against the spiritual attacks of the devil, drawing strength from their unwavering faith and finding solidarity in the shared experience of suffering common to all Christians worldwide. This verse provides both a command for active resistance and a comforting reminder of the universal nature of trials, fostering perseverance and mutual encouragement within the global body of Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Peter's vivid warning in [1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - The Roaring Lion"), where he likens the adversary, the devil, to a "roaring lion, walking about, seeking whom he may devour." Thus, [1 Peter 5:9](/1_peter/5-9 "1 Peter 5:9 - Resist the Devil Steadfastly") is a direct, imperative response to that threat, instructing believers on *how* to confront this spiritual enemy. The preceding verses in [1 Peter 5](/1_peter/5 "1 Peter 5 - Exhortations to Elders and Young Men") also include instructions for elders to shepherd the flock and for younger members to submit, all within a framework of humility and reliance on God's grace. The entire letter of [1 Peter](/1_peter/1 "The First Epistle of Peter") is addressed to scattered Christians facing persecution, aiming to provide comfort, hope, and practical guidance for living faithfully amidst trials.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's audience comprised Christians dispersed throughout Asia Minor, many of whom were experiencing social ostracism, verbal abuse, and even physical persecution for their faith. This was not yet the widespread, state-sponsored persecution under Nero or Domitian, but rather localized harassment and societal pressure. In the Roman world, adherence to traditional pagan cults and emperor worship was expected, and Christians, due to their exclusive devotion to Christ, were often viewed with suspicion, accused of atheism, and seen as a threat to social order. The concept of "afflictions" (Gk. _páthēma_) would have resonated deeply with their lived reality, encompassing various forms of suffering, from social stigma to economic hardship and physical violence.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Peter 5:9](/1_peter/5-9 "1 Peter 5:9 - Resist the Devil Steadfastly") powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent in Peter's epistle. Firstly, it underscores the reality of **spiritual warfare** and the need for active **resistance against evil**, building on the imagery of the devil as a predatory lion from [1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - The Roaring Lion"). Secondly, it emphasizes the vital importance of **steadfast faith** as the primary means of defense and victory, a theme echoed in [1 Peter 1:7](/1_peter/1-7 "1 Peter 1:7 - The Testing of Faith") regarding the testing of faith. Lastly, the verse highlights the **solidarity of suffering** among believers, reminding them that their trials are not unique but are a universal experience shared by the global Christian community. This shared experience fosters empathy, mutual support, and a sense of belonging, reinforcing the idea that suffering for Christ is a normal part of the Christian journey, as further elaborated in [1 Peter 4:12-19](/1_peter/4-12-19 "1 Peter 4:12-19 - Suffering for Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Resist (Greek, _anthístēmi'_):** This word, from G436, means "to stand against" or "oppose." It conveys an active, confrontational posture, not merely passive endurance. Believers are not to flee or succumb to the devil's schemes but to take a firm stand against them, implying spiritual strength and a resolute will.
* **Stedfast (Greek, _stereós'_):** Derived from G4731, _stereós_ means "stiff," "solid," or "stable." When applied to faith, it signifies an unyielding, firm, and immovable commitment. The resistance to the devil must not be wavering or half-hearted but grounded in a solid, unshakeable conviction in Christian truth and God's power.
* **Afflictions (Greek, _páthēma'_):** From G3804, _páthēma_ refers to "something undergone," specifically hardship, pain, or suffering. It encompasses a broad range of difficulties, trials, and persecutions that believers might experience. Its use here emphasizes that these sufferings are not random or isolated but are a common, indeed "accomplished," part of the Christian experience in the world.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Whom resist stedfast in the faith":** This is a direct command from Peter, echoing the imperative to be "sober" and "vigilant" from the preceding verse. The "whom" refers to the "adversary the devil" (from [1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - The Roaring Lion")). The method of resistance is crucial: it must be "stedfast," implying firmness, stability, and unyielding resolve. This steadfastness is specifically "in the faith," meaning that the believer's resistance is rooted in and empowered by their trust in God, their conviction in the truth of the Gospel, and their adherence to Christian doctrine. It is not by human strength alone, but by a faith that stands firm on divine truth.
* **"knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world":** This clause provides the motivation and encouragement for the command to resist. The word "knowing" (G1492, _eídō_) implies a deep, experiential understanding, not just intellectual assent. Believers are to be aware that their sufferings ("afflictions," G3804, _páthēma_) are not unique or isolated. The phrase "the same afflictions are accomplished" (G2005, _epiteléō_) suggests that these trials are being fulfilled or completed, indicating a universal pattern or a common lot for God's people. The phrase "in your brethren that are in the world" (G2889, _kósmos_) broadens the scope, reminding the suffering believers in Asia Minor that their experience is shared by the entire global community of Christians. This awareness fosters solidarity, empathy, and a powerful sense of unity, mitigating feelings of isolation and providing encouragement to persevere.

#### Literary Devices
Peter employs several literary devices to convey his message effectively. The verse uses **Imperative Mood** ("resist") to issue a direct command, emphasizing the urgency and necessity of the action. The phrase "stedfast in the faith" functions as a **Qualifying Adverbial Phrase**, specifying the manner and foundation of this resistance. The entire second clause, "knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world," serves as a powerful **Motivation** or **Grounding Clause**, providing the theological and communal basis for the command. This also highlights **Solidarity** and **Shared Experience** as key themes, reminding the readers that their suffering is not unique but part of a universal pattern among God's people. The implicit connection to the "roaring lion" of [1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - The Roaring Lion") creates a strong **Contextual Linkage**, framing the resistance as a direct counter to a specific, identifiable spiritual threat.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The command to "resist stedfast in the faith" and the comfort derived from the universal nature of suffering are deeply rooted in biblical theology. This verse underscores the reality of spiritual warfare, a constant struggle against unseen forces of evil, yet it simultaneously empowers believers by reminding them of the strength found in their faith and the unity of the global church. The shared experience of affliction transforms suffering from an isolating burden into a unifying bond, demonstrating that trials are not a sign of God's abandonment but a common pathway for His people, leading to spiritual maturity and a deeper reliance on His grace. It echoes the New Testament's consistent teaching that perseverance through trials is a hallmark of genuine faith and a testament to God's refining work in believers.

* [James 4:7](/james/4-7 "James 4:7 - Resist the Devil")
* [Ephesians 6:11](/ephesians/6-11 "Ephesians 6:11 - Put on the Full Armor of God")
* [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ, Suffering with Him")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For contemporary believers, [1 Peter 5:9](/1_peter/5-9 "1 Peter 5:9 - Resist the Devil Steadfastly") remains a vital call to spiritual vigilance and resilience. We are reminded that the Christian life is not free from opposition, but rather demands active, faith-filled resistance against the subtle and overt schemes of the enemy. This resistance is not a solitary battle; it is empowered by our steadfast trust in God's truth and sustained by the knowledge that we are part of a vast, global family of faith. When facing trials, whether personal struggles, societal pressures, or direct spiritual attacks, this verse encourages us to stand firm, drawing strength from our convictions and finding immense comfort in the shared experience of our brothers and sisters in Christ across the world. Our afflictions, far from being unique burdens, connect us to a larger narrative of God's people enduring and overcoming by faith.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you feel the need to "resist stedfast in the faith"?**
* **How does knowing that other believers are experiencing "the same afflictions" encourage you in your own struggles?**
* **What practical steps can you take to strengthen your "steadfastness in the faith" in the face of adversity?**
* **How can your awareness of the global body of Christ lead to greater empathy and prayer for persecuted believers worldwide?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean to "resist stedfast in the faith"?**

Answer: To "resist stedfast in the faith" means to actively stand against the temptations, deceptions, and attacks of the devil with an unyielding and firm commitment to your Christian beliefs and trust in God. It implies drawing strength from the truth of the Gospel, relying on God's power, and maintaining an unwavering conviction in His promises, rather than giving way to doubt, fear, or compromise. This resistance is not passive but an active, spiritual opposition rooted in a robust and stable faith.

**How does the knowledge of "same afflictions" help believers?**

Answer: The knowledge that "the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world" provides immense comfort and solidarity. It helps believers realize they are not alone in their suffering, fostering a sense of universal community among Christians. This awareness can alleviate feelings of isolation, provide encouragement to persevere, and deepen empathy for others who are also enduring trials. It reminds us that suffering for Christ is a common experience for God's people, as seen throughout the New Testament in passages like [John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Tribulation in the World") and [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - All Who Desire to Live Godly Will Suffer Persecution").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [1 Peter 5:9](/1_peter/5-9 "1 Peter 5:9 - Resist the Devil Steadfastly") is a direct command to believers, its deepest fulfillment is found in Christ Himself. Jesus perfectly exemplified steadfast resistance against the devil, famously triumphing over temptation in the wilderness ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1-11 "Matthew 4:1-11 - Jesus' Temptation in the Wilderness")) and ultimately defeating Satan's power through His death and resurrection ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). He is the ultimate model of "steadfast in the faith," having perfectly trusted the Father even unto the cross ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith")). Furthermore, Christ Himself endured "the same afflictions" and far greater, identifying with human suffering to the fullest extent, becoming our sympathetic High Priest ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sympathetic High Priest")). Thus, our ability to resist the devil and endure afflictions is not based on our own strength, but on the victory already secured by Christ, who lives in us and empowers us to stand firm until His glorious return ([Philippians 4:13](/ philippians/4-13 "I Can Do All Things Through Christ")).

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

James 4:7

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Acts 14:22

Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

Ephesians 6:11

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Ephesians 6:13

Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

1 Peter 2:21

For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

1 Corinthians 10:13

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it].

2 Timothy 3:12

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.