1Pe 3:1-12

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In the home and the church (1Pe 3:1-12)

Another sphere where Christians should display the character of Christ is the home. Wives can display a Christlike character through an attitude of submission to their husbands, even though the husbands may be unbelievers. By the wives’ good conduct and quiet spirit, the husbands may be won for God (1Pe 3:1-4).

Some women of Old Testament times, in particular Sarah, are good examples of a wife’s conduct (1Pe 3:5-6).

Christian husbands should not act thoughtlessly or harshly towards their wives, partly because women are physically weaker, but more importantly because women receive God’s blessings equally with men. Tension between husbands and wives hinders their prayers (1Pe 3:7).

In the church likewise believers must have consideration for one another. They must show love and kindness to all, even to those whom they find hard to like. Only as they act towards one another in love will they obtain the blessing that God desires for them (1Pe 3:8-9).

They will find true enjoyment in life as they turn away from insincere speech and hurtful actions, and concentrate instead on doing good and promoting peace. They will also find that such a life is assured of God’s constant help (1Pe 3:10-12).