How To Keep From Becoming Evil (1 Peter 3:9-17)

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Summary

Our current moment is all about fighting for justice. But how do we fight for what is just without ourselves becoming evil? In 1 Peter 3, the apostle offers sage advice on how to engage conflict faithfully, paying attention to the means and trusting God with the ends.

Text

1 Peter 3:9–17

[9] Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. [10] For

“Whoever desires to love life

and see good days,

let him keep his tongue from evil

and his lips from speaking deceit;

[11] let him turn away from evil and do good;

let him seek peace and pursue it.

[12] For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,

and his ears are open to their prayer.

But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

[13] Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? [14] But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, [15] but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, [16] having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. [17] For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil. (ESV)