July 09 2023

Frankie

Christian life / Conversion / 1 Peter 3:1–7

1 Peter 3:1-7

1. There are many self-help and management books available worldwide. These books cover a wide range of topics, including critical thinking, wealth building, and more. The authors of these books often share valuable insights they have discovered and are eager to pass on to readers. Although these books may fall into different categories and have different titles, they all start from a common point: motivation. Motivation is extremely important for humanity as it serves as both a purpose and a guiding force.

For example, if someone wants to become wealthy, they will work hard and explore lucrative opportunities. Similarly, those who seek fame may choose careers in politics or strive to create innovative technologies. When we look at motivation closely, we realize that it stems from desire. Therefore, in some cases, the terms 'desire' and 'motivation' can be used interchangeably.

There is a common misconception that suggests living a fulfilling life only requires following the right behaviors, without the need for motivation. While this might seem true for a short time, it's similar to a car trying to run without fuel—it's not sustainable. Just like a vehicle needs fuel to function, maintaining good behavior requires having enough motivation. Therefore, if we want to develop virtuous conduct and uphold moral principles, it's important to have a strong and well-founded motivation that encompasses the purpose of life.

Just as we need the right motivation in life, it's equally important to approach the Bible with the appropriate motivation, as it can lead to different outcomes based on our intentions. For example, if someone is feeling guilty, they may turn to the Bible in search of guidance on how to resolve those feelings and find solace.

2. It is widely known that Martin Luther sparked the Reformations in the 16th century. However, his primary interest did not lie in initiating this movement. Instead, his primary objective was to address his personal feelings of guilt, delve deeper into the study of the Bible, and establish a stronger connection with God. It was through his exploration of the Scriptures that he ultimately discovered the profound significance of Justification, leading to the resolution of his inner turmoil.

This personal quest for understanding served as his primary motivation. The reason I emphasize motivation is that it serves as the key to understanding the essence of 1 Peter. Without considering motivation, this epistle may appear solely focused on modifying our moral behavior. However, by delving deeper into the text, we come to realize that motivation lies at its core, influencing the transformative journey it imparts. Beginning from chapter 1, Peter delves into the identity of believers in Jesus.

In verse 1, he discusses believers as pilgrims, emphasizing their connection to the works of God, including foreknowledge and sanctification.

He highlights Jesus as the source of abundant mercy and living hope in verses 3 and 12.

Peter encourages believers to embrace their identity as obedient children in verse 14.

Later, in chapter 2, Peter describes believers as a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and God's own special people in verses 9-10.

3. And during our discussion last Sunday, we focused on verses 18 to 25 of chapter 2, where we explored the reasons behind the call for servants (oiketes) to demonstrate submissiveness towards their earthly masters. The underlying motivation for their submission was rooted in Jesus Christ. By recognizing Jesus as their motivation, the servants were encouraged to exhibit submission towards their masters, thereby exemplifying the love of Jesus and spreading it through their actions. Now, building upon this concept, let us delve into the portion we will explore today, which is chapter 3, verses 1 to 7.

1 Peter 3:1–3 NKJV

Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—

1 Peter 3:4–6 NKJV

rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.

1 Peter 3:7 NKJV

Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.

4. If we read the passage in 1 Peter 3:1-7 without considering the motivation or reason behind it, it might appear that Peter intended to establish a hierarchical system between husbands and wives. Indeed, in the ancient world, including Greece and Asian countries such as Korea, there existed a form of hierarchy within spousal relationships. However, it would be a significant mistake to assume that Peter aimed to endorse such a system within the context of Jesus. To truly comprehend this chapter, we must pay attention to its writing style and Peter's underlying motivation or purpose for writing. The chapter begins with the phrase "in like manner" (AMP) or "likewise" (NKJV).

1 Peter 3:1 NKJV

Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives,

1 Peter 3:1 AMP

IN LIKE manner, you married women, be submissive to your own husbands [subordinate yourselves as being secondary to and dependent on them, and adapt yourselves to them], so that even if any do not obey the Word [of God], they may be won over not by discussion but by the [godly] lives of their wives,

5. As I work on my PhD dissertation, the importance of effectively utilizing connecting words and phrases becomes evident. These connecting words play a crucial role in maintaining the coherence of my ideas. In a similar vein, when examining the usage and meaning of connecting words in 1 Peter, we must carefully consider their purpose. Peter employs a distinctive writing style, often referred to as the A+B style. This approach involves presenting his motivations or reasons for writing first, followed by an exploration of the appropriate actions or behaviors in response. Understanding this structure is essential for comprehending the message conveyed by Peter in his epistle.

1 Peter 1:14 NKJV

as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance;

6. In Peter's words, he emphasizes that as believers, having become obedient children through Jesus, we should no longer adhere to our former selves. He provides a clear rationale for why we should abandon our old ways after experiencing salvation through Jesus Christ. Consequently, when Peter discusses the concept of submission between husbands and wives, it is not merely a matter of moral ethics or societal norms in daily life. To grasp its underlying purpose, we must consider the preceding verses, as Peter initiates the discussion with the phrase "in the same manner." By examining the context and continuity of his writing, we can discern the intended meaning and reasoning behind his instructions regarding the relationship dynamics between husbands and wives.

During last Sunday's sermon, we explored the theme of a servant's submission to their master. It became evident that the purpose of such submission is not solely aimed at personal self-improvement, but rather it serves the greater cause of God's kingdom. Servants are called to be submissive to their masters in order to exemplify the love of Jesus through their actions, even in the face of suffering.

It is important to note that submission entails a voluntary commitment of the heart and mind. While servants, known as "doulos," may lack personal autonomy due to their birth status as servants in a particular country, those identified as "oiketes" possess the ability to make independent decisions and own possessions. Hence, when servants willingly and kindly follow their master's commands, their exemplary behavior may lead their masters to recognize Jesus and identify them as disciples of Jesus. Consequently, the servant's submission to their master is rooted in their devotion to Jesus, as it ultimately provides an opportunity for their masters to encounter and know Jesus through their actions.

7. Likewise, the reason why wives should be submissive to their husbands is that through their submission, husbands may come to know and experience Jesus. Similarly, husbands should also have the same reason. Our lives no longer belong to us; they belong to God since we were saved through Jesus Christ. When we are born again, our status and identity are renewed and transformed by the love of Jesus. When I relocated to Pelly in 2015, I did not have permanent residency nor Canadian citizenship. However, despite this fact, as a pastor at a Canadian church, I have been referring to Canada as my country. While my identity remains South Korean, I believe it is essential for me to engage in ministry with this new identity.

Philippians 3:17–21 NKJV

Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.

8. The Bible emphasizes the importance of not merely changing or modifying our outward behavior but rather having the right identity in God. Renewing our hearts, surrendering our minds, and recognizing our heavenly citizenship are key aspects. With this perspective, we approach the Word of God. Without renewing our minds, we cannot share the same outlook as Jesus. Without giving our hearts and minds to the Lord, true worship is not possible.

In Acts 5, Ananias offered a significant amount like Barnabas, but it was not accepted by God due to his misguided motives. He desired recognition and praise from fellow believers. While he wanted to have a genuine faith to follow Jesus, he hadn't fully accepted his new identity as a heavenly being and was still holding onto his old self. When we cling to our old identities, we struggle to truly connect with God. Similarly, when our motivations are driven by our old ways, we cannot effectively honor and bring glory to the name of Jesus.

1 Peter 3:3–4 NKJV

Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.

9. Our motivation for living a new life doesn't come from external sources. It originates from within us, from the inside out. No matter how hard we try to change our outward behavior, our life's motivation cannot be formed that way. It is only formed when God enters our lives. We can experience this new motivation when we come to know God and seek His guidance in our lives.

Seek Ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. And all these things shall be added unto you, Hallelujah.

Therefore, let us give our hearts to the Lord and focus on His love and grace that He has bestowed upon us. This will lead us to the right motivation in God. With the correct reasons and motivations, we can then begin living our lives in accordance with God's law and His ways.