1 Peter 3 reminds me of holding hands. There is joyful lightness when two hands cling to one another in affection. This simple and beautiful gesture is symbolic of a unity that can last a lifetime. Today’s lesson is about building a harmonious union. Once again, the chapter begins by completing the thought from the previous chapter. After teaching about submitting to human authority (as an outward display to non-believers); Peter speaks to the roles within a Christian marriage. He addresses wives first, “in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands.” The context is important. He explains the reasoning; if the husband is not a believer: “they may be won over without words.” Rather than argue, let him “see the purity and reverence” of your life. Peter describes the inner and “unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.” She holds onto God’s promises and her husband’s hand. Peter encourages her to trust God to lead her husband. Peter also addresses “Husbands, in the same way.” That is, if he is married to an unbeliever, he too is under God’s authority. At a time when women had few rights, Peter tells him: “be considerate” to her, and treat her with respect: “as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life.” Elevating the female to equal partner was revolutionary. Peter tells us stubborn men that by blessing her: “nothing will hinder your prayers.”
Peter next addresses all believers, and most certainly this includes our attitude toward our spouse: “be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” Let me suggest to my brothers and sisters in Christ, that if you are not united in your marriage, the sequence is in reverse. Humility reaches out first. Compassion offers comfort. Love pulls together. Sympathy creates a desire to understand. Like-minded means we have shared goals. This is made easier when both are under the authority of Christ. Peter adds this relationship advice: “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult.” Human nature retaliates with greater force, escalating anger. Peter says to “repay evil with blessing.” He emphasizes a basic need for respect in every relationship. Peter quotes from Psalm 34, in which David reminds us of the reciprocal relationship we have with God. The more time we spend with Him, the more we are changed; reflecting His nature. As a result, believers should: “keep their tongue… from deceitful speech… turn from evil… seek peace.” The psalm declares that God pays attention to His beloved: “His ears are attentive to their prayer.”
Peter closes with the result of continuously working together in unity. He describes the transforming power of love. He says we are to “Revere Christ as Lord.” The natural result of experiencing His love is that we cannot stop talking about Him: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” Whenever we talk of our relationship with Jesus, it should be “with gentleness and respect.” Peter also tells believers to keep a clean conscience so that: “those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” And he reminds us that it is okay to brag about your Bestie: “Christ also suffered once for sins… to bring you to God.” Peter closes by joining together old and new. He reminds these Gentile believers: “God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built.” According to Peter, the ark is a symbol of salvation by faith. The door was open to all, but only Noah and his family entered and were saved through the water. Baptism is an outward expression to the world around you that you have accepted Jesus as Lord of your life. It represents submission and new life through: “the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” We link hands with our Lord, who is seated “at God’s right hand.” Friend, is it time to take His hand and walk in unity with Christ?