1 Peter 3:9

Commentary on 1 Peter 3:9 (NKJV)

1 Peter 3:9 (NKJV) states:

“not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.“

Context and Exegesis

The apostle Peter addresses believers, urging them to respond to hostility with blessing rather than retaliation. This teaching is rooted in Jesus’ command to love one’s enemies and to bless those who curse them (Matthew 5:44). The passage emphasises a fundamental Christian ethic of non-retaliation and love in the face of persecution and wrongdoing.

Christianity places a strong emphasis on the sovereignty of God and the authority of Scripture. In this light, 1 Peter 3:9 is seen as a directive that aligns with God’s providence and the transformative power of grace in a believer’s life.

Non-retaliation:

Believers are called to refrain from responding to evil with evil. This mirrors Christ’s own response to suffering and is a testament to the believer’s trust in God’s justice (Romans 12:19).

Blessing Others:

The act of blessing those who mistreat us is an expression of the grace we have received from God. It demonstrates the transformative effect of the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s heart.

Inheriting a Blessing:

The promise of inheriting a blessing points to both present and future rewards. It underscores the hope of eternal life and the assurance of God’s favour for those who live according to His will (Matthew 5:11–12).

Application to Modern Christian Living

1 Peter 3:9 has profound implications for contemporary Christians:

Personal Relationships:

In daily interactions, Christians are called to embody grace and forgiveness, fostering peace and reconciliation rather than perpetuating conflict.

Social Justice:

Responding to injustice with a spirit of blessing encourages a constructive and redemptive approach to societal issues, reflecting Christ’s love and compassion.

Witness to the World:

By living out this teaching, Christians serve as a powerful witness to the transformative power of the gospel, demonstrating an alternative to the world’s cycle of retaliation and revenge.

By understanding and applying the teachings of 1 Peter 3:9, Christians today can live lives that reflect the grace and mercy of God, serving as agents of peace and blessing in a world often marked by hostility and division.