1 Peter 1:13-25

Observations on 1:13-16: In verse 13, subordinate two key participles (“having girded up”-anazosamenoi-Aor. Mid. Ptc. and “being sober-minded”-nephontes-Pres. Act. Ptc.) to the first imperative which occurs in 1 Peter (“set hope”-elpisate-Aor. Act. Imper.). In verse 14, note the key phrase “not fashioning yourselves”-suschematizomenoi-Pres. Mid. Ptc.

In verse 15, note the second imperative in these verses: “be (holy)”-genethete-Aor. Pas. Imper.

In verse 16, note the use of the OT text of Lev. 11:44.

Preaching 1:17-21: “Fearful and Fearless”

Main Idea: Only as you fear the Lord properly can you face your future fearlessly.

Relish the responsibility of fearful living. (17b)
1. positive treatment in Scripture (Psa. 130:4, Prov. 9:10, Isa. 66:22)
2. a declaration to disciples (Luke 12:4-7)
3. conduct yourselves-anastraphete-Aor. Pas. Imper.-with fear-(phobo)
4. during the time (chronon) of your exile (paroikias)
… recognizing the total impartiality of the Lord (17a)
1. a Father who is judging (krinonta)-Pres. Act. Ptc.
2. without respect of persons (aprosopolemptos)-“without receiving face”
3. according to each one’s works
4. Privileged status does not convey license to sin.
… knowing the tremendous value of your deliverance (18-21)
1. immeasurable worth-you were redeemed –(elutrothete)-Aor. Pas. Ind.
2. precious blood (timioi haimati)
3. unblemished lamb (amnou a momou)
4. eternal origin: foreknown (proegnosmenou) before the foundation (kataboles)
5. divine certification: raised (egeiranta) and glorified (doxan)

Observations on 1:22-25: In verse 22, note the phrase “having purified” (hegnikotes)-Perf. Act. Ptc. and subordinate it to “love” (agapesate)-Aor. Act. Imper.

In verse 23, note the supportive/subordinate role of “having been born again” (anagegennemenoi)-Perf. Mid. Ptc. (definite past action with abiding results).

In verses 24-25, note the OT reference from Isa. 40:6, 8.

Matthew McKellar