5:1 Now listen, you rich [probably those mentioned in Jas. 2:6-7] people, weep and wail because of the misery [judgment] that is coming upon you.

5:2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes.

5:3 Your gold and silver are corroded [tarnished; their hoarded wealth lay idle, not helping anyone]. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.

5:4 Look! [the rich were guilty of injustice…] The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.

5:5 You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter [refers to the day of judgment].

5:6 You have condemned [by using the legal system to their advantage] and murdered innocent [literally means “righteous” and signifies the people of God] men, who were not opposing you.

5:7 Be patient [long-tempered; to have endurance for the long-haul; self-restraint that does not retaliate against those who oppress], then [therefore], brothers [those Christians oppressed by the rich (cf. Jas. 5:1-6)], until the Lord’s coming [Gr. “parousia” literally means “presence”; the second coming of Jesus Christ (cf. 1 Thess. 2:19)]. See how the farmer waits [conveys idea of eager anticipation] for the land to yield its valuable [because it is vital for survival] crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains.

5:8 You too [like the farmer who patiently waits for the harvest], be patient and stand firm [literally “strengthen your hearts”; conveys idea of strength and stability], because the Lord’s coming is near [believers should remain in a constant state of readiness for His return].

5:9 Don’t grumble [indicates a muffled muttering or complaining under the breath] against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge [the Lord] is standing at the door!

5:10 Brothers, as an example [a model or pattern intended for imitation] of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets [God’s instruments and representatives who communicated His word and often suffered mistreatment] who spoke in the name of the Lord [or “with the Lord’s authority”].

5:11 As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered [literally “to remain under” or “to endure under hardship”]. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about [God vindicated Job: restored his wealth and gave him more children (cf. Job 42:12-15)]. The Lord is full of compassion [literally means “large-hearted”] and mercy.

5:12 Above all, my brothers, do not swear [a Christian should not have to attach an oath to guarantee the truthfulness of His words (cf. Matt. 5:33-37)]—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your “Yes” be yes, and your “No,” no, or you will be condemned.

5:13 Is any one of you in trouble [refers to suffering or any kind of difficulty (particularly that which comes as a consequence of faith)]? He should pray [the antidote to suffering; should keep on praying]. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise.

5:14 Is any one of you sick [this word also means weak or without strength; physically ill]? He should call [suggests urgency] the elders [NT identifies office of elder with that of bishop (overseer) and pastor (cf. Acts 20:17,28; Titus 1:5,7); gave pastoral and spiritual leadership to churches] of the church to pray over him and anoint [to rub with oil] him with oil [some see this as a reference to medicine (cf. Lk. 10:34) and others see this as a symbol of the Holy Spirit] in the name of the Lord.

5:15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick [the weary or faint one] person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned [sickness may be a result of an individual’s sins (Mk. 2:1-12); not all physical suffering is caused by sin (cf. Jn. 9:3)], he will be forgiven.

5:16 Therefore [appropriately] confess [don’t remain in denial] your [personal] sins to each other [a trusted friend (accountability partner) who will not betray your confidence] and [continually] pray for each other so that you may be healed [even of the lingering guilt that follows an abortion]. The [intercessory] prayer of a righteous [an individual who strives to live in obedience to God] man is powerful and effective.

Note: How have the fervent prayers of others helped you make it through a crisis?

5:17 Elijah was a man just like us [having the same nature as we do]. He prayed [cf. 1 Kings 17:1; 18:42-45] earnestly [literally “he prayed with prayer”] that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.

5:18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

5:19 My brothers, if one of you [a professing Christian; see also 1 Cor. 10:12] should [willful rejection of God’s will] wander [stray from the right path and head in the wrong direction] from the truth [right doctrine and conduct] and someone should [redemptively and responsibly] bring him back [restoration with God and the church],

5:20 remember this: Whoever [gently and compassionately] turns [course correction by forsaking sin and returning to God] a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death [e.g., as in the case of drug abuse or, in the case of abortion, an infant’s life] and cover over [help the sinner avoid] a multitude of sins [and their dire consequences].

Note: In what ways can our redemptive response impact the lives of people involved in sin?

4:1 What causes fights [refers to a continual state of war; chronic hostilities as in a war] and quarrels [refers to individual conflicts or single encounters as in a battle] among you [the believers to whom he was writing]? Don’t they come from your desires [denotes sinful, sensual pleasures; implies physical cravings associated with bodily appetites; our Eng. word “hedonism” derived from Gr. word] that battle within you?

4:2 You want [to yearn for or crave; to lust or covet; anxious seeking] something but don’t get it. You kill [murder] and covet [to burn with envy; to be filled with jealousy; to grasp at what is not ours], but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight [cf. Jas. 4:1]. You do not have, because you do not ask [in prayer; with an attitude of humility] God [only God can satisfy all our needs].

4:3 When you ask [on those occasions when they actually prayed], you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives [literally means “with evil intent”], that you may spend [squander or waste] what you get on your pleasures [cf. “desires” in 4:1].

Note: How would you evaluate your prayers? What percentage of your requests could be classified as selfish?

4:4 You adulterous people [spiritual unfaithfulness], don’t you know that friendship [such friendship is evidence of spiritual unfaithfulness] with the world [the system of evil controlled by Satan; cf. 1 Jn. 5:19] is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes [is rendered or considered] an enemy of God.

4:5 Or do you think Scripture [use here inclusive of OT and Paul’s writings] says without reason [emptily or vainly] that the spirit [the inner part of our being] he caused to live in us envies intensely?

4:6 But he gives us more [greater] grace [God’s undeserved love and acceptance]. That is why Scripture says [cf. Prov. 3:34]: “God opposes [or resists: a military term meaning “to battle against”] the proud [those who attach undue importance to themselves] but gives grace [God shows His favor] to the humble [those who willingly submit to God and His ways].”

4:7 [note ten imperatives…] [1] Submit [to render obedience; to place oneself under God and His authority] yourselves, then, to God. [2] Resist [to take a stand against] the devil [literally “slanderer”], and he will flee from you.

Note: Why is it necessary to submit to God before resisting the devil?

4:8 [3] Come near [an invitation to those who had drifted away from God because of their evil practices (cf. Jas. 4:1-4)] to God [the place of safety] and he will come near to you [like father of prodigal son (Lk. 15:11-32)]. [4] Wash [because sin makes us unclean] your hands [represent our lifestyles and behaviors], you sinners, and [5] purify your hearts, you double-minded [those who tried to be friends with world and God; cf. Jas. 1:8].

4:9 [6] Grieve [means “to be sorrowful” because of awareness of sin], [7] mourn [passionate grief or sorrow] and [8] wail [outward display of grief]. [9] Change [means “to turn about”] your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom [a downcast look or a feeling of heaviness].

4:10 [10] Humble [means to recognize who we are and who God is] yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift [exalt] you up.

4:11 Brothers, do not [quit the habit of] slander [to speak against other person] one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it [probably refers to the royal law (cf. Jas. 2:8)]. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.

4:12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

4:13 Now listen, you who say, “[travel schedule…] Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, [time schedule…] spend a year there, [business schedule…] carry on business and make money.”

4:14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes [cf. Ps. 39:4-6; 103:14-16].

Note: What is the difference between boastful presumption and wise planning?

4:15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”

4:16 As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting [presumptuous and arrogant boasting] is evil.

4:17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it [sins of omission], sins.

3:1 Not many of you should presume to be teachers [apparently many Jewish Christians wanted to teach (though they lacked the maturity and/or giftedness to do so); teachers played an important role in the early church (cf. 1 Cor. 12:28; Eph. 4:11); some wanted to be teachers because they desired the status, respect, and authority that came with the position; not all who want to be teachers have the spiritual gift of teaching; unfit teachers can be as harmful as false teachers], my brothers, because you know that we [James included himself] who teach will be judged more strictly [legal term that refers to a greater sentence from a judge].

Note: What is the danger of recruiting individuals to teach too quickly after their conversion?

3:2 [James turned his attention to speech, the primary means of communication for teachers] We all [everyone, not just teachers] stumble [used figuratively here: means “to commit sin”] in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect [complete or mature] man, able to keep his whole body in check [does not allow his body to become instrument of sin].

Note:
“The Tongue”
by Philip Burroughs Strong

“The boneless tongue, so small and weak,
Can crush and kill,” declares the Greek.

“The tongue destroys a greater horde,”
The Turk asserts, “than does the sword.”

A Persian proverb wisely saith,
“A lengthy tongue—an early death”;

Or sometimes takes this form instead,
“Don’t let your tongue cut off your head.”

“The tongue can speak a word whose speed,”
Says the Chinese, “outstrips the steed”;

While Arab sages this impart,
“The tongue’s great storehouse is the heart.”

From Hebrew wit the maxim sprung,
“Though feet should slip, ne’er let the tongue.”

The sacred writer crowns the whole,
“Who keeps his tongue doth keep his soul.”

3:3 [James used three illustrations from daily life to illustrate that the effectiveness of the instrument, not its size, is most important] When we put [1] bits [small piece of metal with reins attached] into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal [illustrates how a small thing has influence over something much larger].

3:4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small [2] rudder wherever the pilot wants to go.

3:5 Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts [arrogant bragging or talking big]. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small [3] spark.

3:6 The tongue also is a fire [and therefore has the potential for great destruction; an uncontrolled tongue can destroy relationships, reputations, and churches], a world of [all kinds of] evil among the parts of the body. It [the destructive use of speech] corrupts [spots, stains, defiles] the whole person, sets the whole course of his life [all of life from birth to death] on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell [“Gehenna” is Gr. form of Heb. name of Valley of Hinnom (place near Jerusalem where people burned their trash); Gehenna a symbol for eternal fire and final judgment (Mk. 9:43,47); cf. Matt. 5:22].

3:7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man [emphasizes humanity’s control over animal world],

3:8 but [in contrast to the taming of various kinds of animals] no man [however, the indwelling Holy Spirit can help people gain control of their tongues] can tame [to subdue or conquer] the tongue. It is a restless [unruly and unrestrainable; like an animal pacing back and forth in a cage] evil, full of deadly poison [like a deadly snake].

3:9 With the tongue we praise [our Eng. Word “eulogy”: to offer good words or to speak well of someone; represents the highest use of the tongue] our Lord and Father, and with it [the same tongue] we curse [to invoke evil] men, who have been made in God’s likeness.

3:10 Out of the same mouth [Spurgeon said “What lies in the well of the heart comes up in the bucket of speech.”; cf. Mk. 7:15,20-23] come praise and cursing. My brothers [James was addressing Christians], this should not be [it is inappropriate or incongruous].

3:11 Can both fresh [literally “sweet” or good for drinking] water and salt [literally “bitter” or unfit for drinking] water flow [refers to “gushing forth” or “bubbling up”] from the same spring [rhetorical question with negative answer]?

3:12 My brothers, [James turned to an agricultural metaphor to reinforce his point about inconsistent speech] can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? [the answer is “no”] Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you [James answered this question in the next phrase]? Let him show it by his good life [cf. Matt. 6:19-21,33], by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

3:14 But if you harbor bitter envy [anger at the accomplishments and successes of others] and selfish ambition [cf. Phil. 2:3] in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth [the truth that we are harboring bitter envy and selfish ambition].

3:15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil .

3:16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.

3:17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven [literally “from above”] is first of all [means “first in rank”] pure [means “holy” or “separate”]; then peace-loving [cf. Matt. 5:9], considerate [patient, reasonable, fair in dealing with others], submissive [compliant and approachable, willing to yield (as long as no serious moral or doctrinal issue is at stake)], full of mercy [compassion shown toward the needy] and good fruit [probably kind, helpful actions on behalf of needy], impartial [cf. Jas. 2:1] and sincere [to be sincere or without double-mindedness or hypocrisy].

3:18 Peacemakers [those who love and try to promote peace; cf. Matt. 5:9] who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness [conduct that pleases God; actions that conform to God’s will].

2:1 My brothers [James was addressing a family matter], as believers [we are bound together as believers in the family of faith] in our [personal ownership and relationship] glorious [cf. Jn. 1:14] Lord [Gr. “kurios”] Jesus [name means “Yahweh is Savior”] Christ [Gr. word used to translate messiah (anointed one)], don’t [stop something in progress] show favoritism [partiality].

Note: Impartiality is an attribute of God. Read Deut. 10:17; Acts 10:34; Rom. 2:11; Gal. 2:6; Eph. 6:9; Col. 3:25. Impartiality is an attitude Jesus practiced. Read Matt. 22:16; Mk. 12:14; Lk. 20:21.

2:2 Suppose [a hypothetical case study] a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring [quality of the ring indicated social status] and fine [either elegant and luxurious or fresh and clean] clothes, and a poor [one in abject poverty; possibly a beggar; cf. Zech. 7:9-10] man in shabby [filthy, dirty] clothes also comes in.

2:3 If you show special attention [to look with favor on] to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good [comfortable and favored; preferred seating] seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there [standing room only]” or “Sit on the floor by my feet, [poor man given neither dignity or comfort]”

Note: List ways in which churches today favor the rich and discriminate against the poor. Are you sometimes uncomfortable in the presence of certain people?

2:4 have you not discriminated [to make a distinction] among yourselves [between church members or within oneself] and become judges with evil thoughts [obvious answer is “yes”]?

Note: How do other people influence the prejudices we have?

2:5 Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor [those who have little money; the poor are more apt to be aware of their powerlessness; riches can keep people from recognizing their need for God (cf. Mk. 10:23; Lk. 12:34)] in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom [cf. Lk. 6:20] he promised those who love him?

2:6 But you have insulted [to dishonor; by not treating them as God treats them; cf. Rom. 12:10] the poor. [note James’ three questions] [1] Is it not the rich who are exploiting [to oppress; to use someone for profit] you? [2] Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court [cf. Matt. 18:23-35]?

2:7 [3] Are they not the ones who are slandering [speaking evil of Christ and His followers; to blaspheme; cf. 1 Pet. 4:13-14] the noble name of him [Christ] to whom you belong?

2:8 If you really keep the royal [from the King of kings] law found in Scripture [cf. Matt. 22:37-40], “Love your neighbor [included enemies (Matt. 5:44); cf. parable of the good Samaritan (Lk. 10:25-37)] as yourself,” you are doing right.

2:9 But if [word assumes the reality of the condition] you show favoritism, you sin [prejudice is sin] and are convicted [to convince with overwhelming evidence] by the law as lawbreakers [transgressor: one who steps across a boundary].

2:10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles [to go astray; to sin] at just one point is guilty of breaking all [because the law is a unity rather than a series of unrelated requirements] of it.

2:11 For he who said, “Do not commit adultery [Seventh Commandment],” also said, “Do not murder [Sixth Commandment].” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.

2:12 Speak and act [these words cover all human behavior] as those who are going to be judged [refers to believers being judged for the kind of lives they have lived (cf. 1 Cor. 3:12-15)] by the law that gives freedom [phrase used in 1:25; God’s moral law, God’s Word, the gospel],

2:13 because judgment without mercy [merciful actions are evidence that we have a personal relationship with Christ; cf. Matt. 5:7] will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!

2:14 What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims [talk is cheap; easy to say] to have faith but has no deeds [actions done in obedience to God]? [the next question is constructed to expect a negative answer…] Can such faith save him?

2:15 Suppose a brother or sister [those within reach; cf. Gal. 6:10] is without clothes [or poorly clad] and daily food.

2:16 If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well [standard farewell blessing]; keep warm and well fed [or, “God help you with your needs because I certainly do not have the time to do so.”],” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it [cf. 1 Jn. 3:17-18]?

2:17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action [the fruit of faith], is dead [faith that has no works does not work].

2:18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds [as if the two are separate expressions of Christianity].” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.

2:19 You believe that there is one God [cf. Deut. 6:4; one of the foundational doctrines of Christianity]. Good! Even the demons [evil spiritual beings opposed to God] believe [intellectual belief alone is not life-changing faith; belief in a doctrine alone has no saving power] that—and shudder [to tremble with fear].

2:20 You foolish [empty or senseless; a hollow man; one lacking intellectual understanding and moral and spiritual insight] man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?

2:21 Was not our ancestor Abraham considered [declared] righteous [to vindicate or to show to be righteous] for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar [recorded in Genesis 22:1-19]? [the answer to this question is “yes”]

2:22 You see that his faith and his actions were working [suggests a continuous, habitual activity] together [complementing one another], and his faith was made complete [perfected or brought to maturity; brought to its goal] by what he did.

2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says [cf. Gen. 15:6], “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend [cf. 2 Chron. 20:7; Isa. 41:8].

2:24 You see that a person is justified by what he does [in the sense that what they do demonstrates that their hearts are right with God; important to understand that they are not declared righteous because of their works; God requires good deeds from those who are members of His family] and not by faith alone.

2:25 In the same way, was not even Rahab [lived in Jericho (the first city the Israelites conquered as they entered Canaan); cf. Josh. 2; Heb. 11:31; Rahab confessed her belief in the one true God (Josh. 2:11)] the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? [the answer to this question is “yes”]

2:26 As the body without the spirit [refers to the breath of life] is dead, so faith without deeds is dead [useless].

1:1 James [the half-brother of Jesus], a servant [Gr. “doulos” (servant, slave); this is the only title James used to identify himself; important qualities in a servant include obedience, humility, loyalty] of God and of the Lord [this title was blasphemous to the Jews and treasonous to the Romans] Jesus [the earthly name of God with us (Immanuel)] Christ [the anointed one], To the twelve tribes scattered [Gr. “diaspora” refers to Jews who had left their land by force or by choice; cf. Acts 8:1] among the nations [“It is hard to find a spot in the whole world which is not occupied and dominated by the Jews.” (Strabo, a geographer who was contemporary with Jesus)]: Greetings [Gr. “chairein”].

1:2 Consider [to regard, count, deem, reckon] it pure joy [genuine rejoicing], my brothers [a reminder that we do not have to face trials alone; we are vulnerable when we try to face trials alone because “Satan is a pirate looking for a vessel without a fleet”], whenever [not “if” but “when”] you face [or “fall into” trials or are ambushed (cf. Lk. 10:30); some rejoice only when they escape trials] trials [represent the possibility of growth] of many kinds [multicolored],

Note: What trial are you going through right now? What hope do you have in the midst of this trial?

1:3 because you know that the testing [Gr. “dokimion”; the results of the trial; tests are opportunity to show what we have learned; God helps believers mature through trials] of your faith develops [produces] perseverance [endurance; staying power; steadfastness under trial].

Note: What do you think God may be trying to accomplish by allowing pain and grief into your life? Have your trials produced the perseverance that James described or have they produced bitterness?

1:4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be [1] mature [experienced; seasoned] and [2] complete [fully trained; a developed Christian], [3] not lacking anything [security that comes from trusting God and knowing that He has what we need and is able to supply it when we need it].

1:5 [trials (1:2-4) often accentuate our need for wisdom] If [or “since”] any of you lacks wisdom [we need wisdom to face the trials of life], he should ask [rather than despair] God, who gives [cf. Rom. 8:32] generously to all without finding fault [God will never complain or criticize us for asking Him for wisdom], and it [wisdom; God’s guidance; the wisdom to do and to remain in His will] will be given to him.

1:6 But [note that faith is the condition for receiving] when he asks, he must believe and not doubt [to be in two minds (about God’s character); to oscillate between belief and unbelief], because he who doubts is like a wave [a picture of that which is unsettled] of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

1:7 That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord;

1:8 he is a double-minded [claiming to trust God while keeping other options open in case God does not come through] man, unstable in all he does.

1:9 The brother in humble circumstances [“in humble circumstances” (Gr. “tapeinos) refers to those who are lowly, poor, powerless, and insignificant in the world’s eyes] ought to take pride [or rejoice in the fact that God regards him as a person of great worth] in his high position [as a child of God].

1:10 But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position [humility], because he will pass away like a wild flower.

1:11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away [cf. Ps. 39:4-6] even while he goes about his business [literally “goings”; a reminder that disaster and death often strike unannounced; cf. Jas. 4:13-17].

1:12 Blessed [Gr. “makarios”: the same word used by Jesus in the Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3-12)] is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test [literally means “having become approved”], he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

1:13 When tempted [Gr. peirasmos; here refers to the appeal of an inward desire to do evil; read Matthew 4:1-11; 1 Corinthians 10:13; and 2 Timothy 2:22], no one should say [people have been making excuses (shift blame) for their sins since the Garden of Eden], “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil [there is nothing in God that is attracted to evil; God is “untemptable”], nor [because evil is repulsive to God and in total opposition to His nature and purpose] does he tempt anyone;

Note: List some excuses people make when they sin.

1:14 but each one is tempted when, by his own evil [desires contrary to God’s will] desire [Gr. epithumia is a neutral word; cf. Phil. 1:23 where the word refers to a good desire], he is dragged [or drawn] away [as a hunter draws an animal into a trap] and enticed [lured like a fish; to satisfy an appropriate desire in an inappropriate way].

Note: How does a fisherman use deceit to make danger look attractive or to mask danger entirely?

1:15 Then, after desire has conceived [when a person actually yields to temptation], it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death [spiritual separation from God; cf. Rom. 6:23; 7:7-12; 1 Jn. 2:16-17; 3:14]; loss of spiritual vitality for a disobedient Christian].

1:16 Don’t be deceived [stop being deceived; to be led astray; do not be deceived into thinking that God is the source of temptation], my dear brothers.

1:17 Every good [God’s gifts do never encourage evil desire or sin] and perfect [God’s gifts fulfill His will for His people] gift is from above [indicates heavenly origin of good and perfect gifts], coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights [He created the sun, moon, and stars], who does not change [His character is trustworthy (cf. Mal. 3:6)] like shifting shadows.

1:18 He chose to give us birth [the new birth] through the word of truth [the gospel of salvation (cf. Eph. 1:13)], that we might be a kind of firstfruits [the first portion of the harvest, which was given to God; cf. Lev. 23:9-14] of all he created.

1:19 My dear brothers, take note of this [note three forms of self-discipline]: Everyone should be [1] quick [implies a readiness to heed what we hear] to listen [to God’s Word; everything we hear should be checked by God’s Word lest we fall prey to false teaching and error], [2] slow to speak [you cannot listen when you are speaking; may be admonition to new Christians who wanted to become teachers of God’s Word before they understood it themselves] and [3] slow to become angry [anger can be a hindrance to listening to God’s truth],

Note: “We have two ears but only one mouth that we may hear more and speak less.” (Zeno)

1:20 for man’s anger [anger often leads people into sinful actions and words] does not bring about [or produce] the righteous life that God desires.

1:21 Therefore, get rid of [put away] all moral filth [morally degenerate behaviors; everything that God considers impure; all that is contrary to God’s Word and hinders from living a righteous life] and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly [means to be teachable] accept [has the idea of welcoming; open your heart to the influence of God’s Word] the word planted in you [planted in the soil of an open heart], which can save [or rescue from the destructive influence of sin] you.

1:22 Do not merely listen [in James’ day people accustomed to hearing Scripture read because they did not possess personal copies of Scripture; cf. 1 Tim. 4:13 re: “the public reading of Scripture”] to the word, and so deceive [to deceive oneself through fallacious reasoning] yourselves. Do what it says [cf. Lk. 11:28; Rom. 2:13].

Note: Do you obey God’s Word because you want to or because you have to?

1:23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says [listens with no intention of obeying] is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror [God’s Word reflects what is in our lives and shows us what we look like on the inside]

1:24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets [implies the look was casual rather than careful] what he looks like.

1:25 But the man who looks intently [with serious attention] into the perfect law [cf. “royal law” in 2:8; cf. Matt. 23:37-40] that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed [cf. Lk. 11:28] in what he does [cf. Ps. 1:1-3].

1:26 If anyone considers [important thing is what God considers us to be] himself religious and yet [must be evidence of our faith in our actions] does not keep a tight rein [to put a bridle in own mouth] on his tongue [cf. Jas. 1:9; 3:1-12; Mark 7:20-23], he deceives himself and his religion is worthless [nonproductive; empty; useless].

Note: Does what you choose to talk about and the way in which you speak indicate to others that your faith is real? List ways in which the tongue can dishonor God and offend others?

1:27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure [free from contamination] and faultless is this [note the practical nature of the religion God accepts]: to look after orphans and widows [two of the most vulnerable members of society] in their distress and [concern about others must be balanced with concern about our own life] to keep oneself from being polluted by the world [cf. Jn. 17:15].

Note: How is your inner faith expressed outwardly in daily life?

5:1 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed:



5:2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve;



5:3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.



5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.



5:5 In the same way, you who are younger [the most likely to resist authority], submit yourselves to your elders [the elders in the church who provide order and guidance]. All of you, clothe yourselves [relate to one another] with humility [cf. Prov. 3:34; Lk. 14:11; Jas. 4:6] toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud
    but shows favor to the humble.”



5:6 Humble [involves placing ourselves under God’s sovereign control and seeing others as people of worth in God’s eyes] yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.



5:7 Cast [cf. Ps. 55:22] all your anxiety [cf. Phil. 4:6-7] on him because he cares for you.

5:8 Be alert [an urgent admonition to Pay attention! Wake up!] and of sober mind. Your [the devil is our enemy] enemy [all the persecution believers suffer ultimately comes from one enemy] the devil [aka Satan, Beelzebub, Accuser; he hates God, God’s people, and God’s purposes] prowls around like a roaring [a lion will use fear to drive their pray into the jaws of another lion] lion [like a lion, the devil looks for the most vulnerable victims — especially those who are isolated from others, new believers, and the weak] looking for someone to devour [this is what happens when we are not alert].

5:9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.



5:10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.



5:11 To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.



5:12 With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it.

5:13 She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark.



5:14 Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

4:1 Therefore [looks back to 1 Pet. 3:18], since Christ suffered in his body [included His death for us on the cross], arm yourselves also with the same attitude [face suffering with the same resolve that Jesus faced suffering], because he [either refers to Jesus or to the believer] who has suffered in his body is done with sin [cf. “once for all” in 1 Pet. 3:18; Jesus dealt with sin conclusively and finally and did not need to deal with it again; statement implies that believers should be done with sin].

4:2 As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God [cf. Lk. 22:42].

4:3 For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans [translates a Gr. word meaning “Gentiles”] choose to do—living in [1] debauchery [unrestrained and shameless sexual behavior], [2] lust [evil sexual desire], [3] drunkenness, [4] orgies [feasts characterized by drunkenness and disorderly behavior and sexual immorality], [5] carousing [drinking parties; loose and wild living] and [6] detestable idolatry [refers to the worship of anything other than the true God].

4:4 They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.

4:5 But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

4:6 For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.

4:7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.

4:8 Above all [more important than anything else], love [cf. 1 Cor. 13:13] each other [there are 35 “one another” passages in the NT] deeply, because love [“agape” or a self-sacrificing love that expects nothing in return] covers over a multitude of sins [cf. 1 Cor. 13:5].

4:9 Offer hospitality to one another [there are 35 “one another” passages in the NT] without grumbling.

4:10 Each one [each believer is gifted] should use whatever gift [Gr. “charisma”: a gift of grace] he has received [God determines gift or gifts we receive] to [we are accountable for what we do with our gifts] serve [“minister” is a verb form of Gr. “diakonia”] others [cf. Phil. 2:3-4], faithfully administering [God’s gifts are entrusted to believers as stewards] God’s grace in its various forms.

4:11 If anyone speaks [a broad category: may refer to a number of gifts such as prophesying or teaching], he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves [a broad category; should serve those in need within the body and all people in need (cf. Lk. 10:25-37; Gal. 6:10)], he should do it with the strength God provides [“Divine work can only be done in dependence upon divine strength.” (Watchman Nee)], so [ultimate goal of exercising spiritual gifts…] that in all things God [not the one exercising the gift] may be praised through Jesus Christ. [doxology…] To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

4:12 Dear friends [literally “beloved”], do not be surprised at the painful trial [or “fiery ordeal”] you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.

4:13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ [suffering for Christ], so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed [when Christ returns].

4:14 If you are insulted [ridiculed; verbal abuse] because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory [refers to the glory of Christ that will be revealed at His coming] and of God [cf. Isa. 11:2] rests on you [the glory of Christ that will one day be revealed when He appears now rests on persecuted believers in the Person of the Holy Spirit].

4:15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer [one who despises the image of God in another human being] or thief [one who has no regard for the property of others] or any other kind of criminal [an evildoer; a general term that includes all kinds of felonies and criminal actions; a Christian guilty of these things tarnishes the name of Christ], or even as a meddler [this term occurs only here in the NT; a busybody; one who takes on the task of correcting everyone else’s behavior].

4:16 However, if you suffer [to endure verbal abuse, physical punishment, imprisonment] as a Christian [this term appears in NT only three times (see also Acts 11:26; 26:28); a Christian was not one identified with a religion but rather one identified with the person of Christ], do not be ashamed [cf. Acts 5:41; 9:16], but praise God [for the privilege of suffering for the name of Christ] that you bear that name.

4:17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

4:18 And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”

4:19 So then, those who suffer [some but not all will suffer] according to God’s will [suffering is never accidental] should commit themselves to their faithful Creator [God is faithful in times of suffering] and continue to do good [suffering should serve as incentive to do continue to do good].

3:1 Wives, in the same way [cf. 2:13] be submissive [subject yourselves; cf. Gal. 3:28; Eph. 5:24; Col. 3:18; 1 Pet. 3:5] to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over [to win over to a point of view; cf. 1 Cor. 9:19-22] without words [actions speak louder than words] by the behavior [behavior/actions demonstrate reality] of their wives,

Note: List advantages to being respectful.

3:2 when they see [observe] the purity [irreproachable conduct that is free from moral defilement] and reverence [Gr. “phobos” refers to healthy fear (cf. 2:18)] of your lives.

3:3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment [not a prohibition against being well groomed or nicely dressed but against making these a priority over inner beauty and godly character], such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes.

3:4 Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.

3:5 For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands,

3:6 like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her master. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.

3:7 Husbands, in the same way be considerate [respond accordingly to her needs, desires, gifts, abilities] as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker [refers to physical and not to moral, spiritual, or intellectual weakness] partner [implies a side-by-side relationship] and as heirs with [joint-heirs; signals equality] you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder [to cut in on] your [husband] prayers [our relationships with others matters (cf. Matt. 5:23-24) and impacts our prayers].

Note: How do you think being respectful would impact troubled marriages today?

3:8 Finally [the conclusion of his remarks on submission], all of you [believers represented variety of groups within society, including slaves, wives, husbands, etc.], live in harmony with one another [cf. Rom. 12:18]; be sympathetic [to feel what someone else feels; cf. Rom. 12:15], love as brothers [Gr. “philadephia”; to have family-like affections for others in the body of Christ], be compassionate [or kindhearted; feeling others’ needs and then acting to meet those needs (like the Good Samaritan in Lk. 10:25-37)] and humble [an attitude that keeps a person from being consumed by pride and selfish desires; Jesus set example of humility when He washed the disciples’ feet (cf. Jn. 13:1-15)].

3:9 [how to respond to persecution by non-Christians…] Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing [involves both good words and good actions toward those who persecute or torment us; blessing is the opposite of cursing], because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing [eternity with God].

10 For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.

3:11 He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.

3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

3:13 Who [even the most irreligious people recognize what is good; cf. Prov. 3:3-4] is going to harm you if you are eager [passionate (translates the Gr. word “zealot”] to do good?

3:14 But even if [if perchance; the possibility of persecution was real] you should suffer [cf. Matt. 5:10] for what is right, you are blessed [highly privileged]. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened [disturbed; emotional turmoil; cf. Matt. 10:28].”

3:15 But [introduces the antidote to fear: focus on Christ] in your hearts [the place where fear would dwell] set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared [ready to speak out] to give an answer [a defense] to everyone who asks [whether in a court of law or an everyday informal inquiry] you to give the reason [a rational account of; a reasonable defense] for the hope [the “faith”] that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

3:16 keeping [maintaining] a clear conscience [personal integrity before God], so that those who speak [to speak evil against] maliciously [a reminder that we live in a hostile world] against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander [speaking evil about another in order to destroy good reputation].

Note: Do not supply people with the ammunition with which to speak maliciously against you or to slander you.

3:17 It is better, if it is God’s will [God may allow suffering to come into our lives for our growth and His glory], to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

3:18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.

3:19 After being made alive, he went and made proclamation to the imprisoned spirits—

3:20 to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water,

3:21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

3:22 who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.

2:1 Therefore, rid [constantly and deliberately; to lay aside as one removing filthy clothes; rid yourself of everything inconsistent with your new life] yourselves of [1] all malice [wickedness; a general term for that which is morally evil; cf. Eph. 4:31] and [2] all deceit [that which is fake; speaking or acting from selfish motives], [3] hypocrisy [being two-faced; the insincerity and pretense of professing Jesus but play acting as a Christian], [4] envy [wanting what someone else has (includes material possessions as well as praise and prestige); cf. Ex. 20:17], and [5] slander [evil speech directed to others; gossip] of every kind.

2:2 Like newborn babies [Gr. “brephos” is the same word used of baby Jesus in the manger (Lk. 2:16); here refers to new converts in Christ], crave [to deeply long for; cf. Matt. 5:6] pure spiritual milk [the Word of God (cf. 1 Pet. 1:23,25) which nourishes believers lives], so that by it you may grow up in your salvation [begins with the new birth; includes growing and maturing in holiness; one day will include salvation from presence of sin],

2:3 now that you have tasted [means to experience for yourself] that the Lord is good [cf. Ps. 34:8].

2:4 As you come to [daily drawing close to Him; we have the privilege of coming into God’s presence at any time and bring any need to Him] him, the living [Jesus imparts life] Stone [Jesus; cf. Acts 4:11-12] — rejected [cf. Ps. 118:22 and John 15:18-19] by men [those He came to save] but chosen [means “selected in love”] by God and precious [highly valued or esteemed] to him—
 
2:5 you also, like living stones, are being built [stones fit together and have a relationship to one another; God is the builder] into a spiritual house [the church; requires more than one stone to build] to be a holy priesthood [cf. Ex. 19:6 re “a kingdom of priests and a holy nation”; priesthood refers to all who have placed their faith in Christ for salvation], offering spiritual [not “animal” sacrifices] sacrifices [we offer ourselves (Rom. 12:1); we offer love (Eph. 5:2); we offer our resources and praises to God] acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
 
2:6 For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone [the first stone set during the building process; cornerstone was square to ensure the proper alignment of the remainder of the building; Eph. 2:19-22], and the one who trusts in him [Jesus, the cornerstone] will never be put to shame [cf. Rom. 9:33; 10:11].”
 
2:7 Now to you who believe [Christians], this stone [Jesus] is precious [highly valued; esteemed]. But to those who do not believe [or who do not regard Jesus as precious], “The stone the builders [those who toss Jesus aside as the cornerstone and instead choose to build their lives on something else] rejected [tossed aside in favor of another stone] has become the capstone [the very head of the corner; cf. Ps. 118:22],”

2:8 and, “A stone that causes men to stumble [a result of disobedience] and a rock that makes them fall [cf. Isa. 8:14; a result of disobedience].” They stumble [tripping or falling; taking offense at; rejecting the only one capable of saving them and giving meaning to their lives] because they disobey [willful rejection] the message — which is also what [the consequences of disbelief] they were destined for [cf. 2 Peter 3:9].
 
2:9 But you are a chosen people [God’s people are unique and distinct] a royal [because we are members of God’s family] priesthood [cf. Ex. 19:6; being a priest is a high honor; we can approach God directly (Heb. 14:6) rather than through an intermediary], a holy nation [cf. Ex. 19:6; set apart because of our devotion to God], a people belonging to [a treasured possession of] God [cf. Ex. 19:5; Mal. 3:17; not because of our race but because of our choice to place our faith in Christ alone for salvation], that you may declare [we are called to speak about what God has done for us, specifically in regard to our salvation] the praises [wonderful deeds] of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
 
2:10 Once you were not a people [cf. Hos. 1:9-10; 2:23], but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy [God withholding from us what we deserve; evidence of God’s love for us].

2:11 Dear friends [beloved; these believers were well-known to Peter], I urge [to appeal to; to beg, invite, or request] you, as aliens [refers to foreigners who reside for a time in a foreign land] and strangers [refers to people who are just passing through a foreign land] in the world [cf. 1 Pet. 1:1], to abstain from [a reminder that believers have not yet lost their capacity to desire or to do wrong things] sinful [or fleshly desires; fleshly refers to everything human that stands in opposition to God] desires, which war against your soul [or against you; the whole person; cf. Rom. 7:13-25].

2:12 Live such good [honorable, decent] lives [believers are to live their lives in the light of eternity and in the light of the holiness of God] among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong [because they misunderstand your motives and actions; cf. Matt. 5:11], they may see your good deeds and glorify God [cf. Matt. 5:16] on the day he visits us.

2:13 Submit [accept the authority of; not when it means violating God’s Word and sinning against God (cf. Acts 5:29)] yourselves for the Lord’s sake [so that the spread of the gospel will not be hindered] to every authority [literally means “creature;” cf. Rom. 13:1-2] instituted among men [human institutions]: whether to the king [in Peter’s time Emperor Nero, a cruel tyrant who ruled from AD 54–68], as the supreme authority,

2:14 or to governors, who are sent by him [the king or emperor] to [this word introduces the God-ordained functions (that help maintain peace and safety) of those in authority] punish [legal punishment] those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.

Note: Recall a time when you rebelled against authority. What consequences did you suffer?

2:15 For it is God’s will that by [defines the will of God] doing good [refers to what is written in 2:13-14] you should silence [muzzle, gag, restrain] the ignorant talk [about Christianity] of foolish [those without reason; those who lie about and slander believers] men.

2:16 Live as free [this does not mean that we are free to do whatever we want] men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up [pretext] for evil; live as servants [Christ frees people to serve God] of God.

2:17 Show proper respect [honor, value, esteem] to everyone [because all are made in the image of God]: Love [volitional, self-sacrificial kind of love] the brotherhood [the family of believers] of believers, fear [show deep respect, reverence, awe] God, honor [Gr. “timao;” the word “respect” is translated from same verb] the king.

2:18 Slaves [Gr. “oiketes” which means household servant; some of Peter’s readers may have been servants serving in pagan homes], submit [cooperate, willingly obey, be loyal] yourselves to your masters [one who has authority] with all respect [our attitude matters; Gr. “phobos” which refers to healthy fear], not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh [hard to deal with; cruel].

Note: How can you endure an extremely difficult situation in a way that would honor God?

2:19 For it is commendable if a man bears up [endure, put up with] under the pain [mental anguish] of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God.

2:20 But how is it to your credit [reputation] if you receive a beating [to hit with the fist (as in Mk. 14:65); to treat roughly] for doing wrong and endure it? But [repeats thought of 2:19] if you suffer [under the hands of a harsh master] for doing good and you endure [without lashing back] it, this is commendable before God.

2:21 To this [the patient endurance of unjust treatment when you least deserve it] you were called, because Christ suffered [cf. Jn. 15:20] for you, leaving you an example [Gr. “hupogrammaton” refers to model of handwriting set up by teachers for pupils to copy], that you should follow in his [Jesus’] steps [footprints].

2:22 [note how Jesus was an example] “[cf. Isa. 53:9] He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

2:23 [cf. Isa. 53:7] When they hurled [they did so repeatedly] their insults [vile and abusive language] at him, he did not retaliate [to return abuse]; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted [to commit; kept entrusting] himself to him [God] who judges justly [according to justice; God will have the final say].

2:24 He himself bore our sins [cf. Isa. 53:12] in his body on the tree, so that we might die to [in reference to] sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds [a cut which bleeds] you have been healed [cf. Isa. 53:5].

2:25 For you were like sheep going astray [cf. Isa. 53:6], but now you have returned [from going astray down the way of sin] to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

1:1 Peter, an apostle [means “one who is sent”] of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, strangers [refers to an alien residing in a foreign land] in the world, scattered throughout [the recipients (both Jews and Gentiles) of the letter lived in the five provinces of he Roman Empire in what is now northern Turkey; Jews from these provinces heard Peter preach on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:9-10)] Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia,

1:2 who have been chosen [elect; shows God’s initiative in all matters of salvation] according to the foreknowledge [means our salvation was not an afterthought on God’s part] of God the Father [the One who planned salvation before the beginning], through the sanctifying [to set apart or dedicate someone or something to God’s use] work of the Spirit, for obedience [the act of responding in faith to the gospel; characterizes the life of a believer] to Jesus Christ [the One who shed His blood] and sprinkling by his blood [expression possibly comes from the sprinkling of the blood on the ark of the covenant on the Day of Atonement (cf. Lev. 16) or from the red heifer ceremony of Num. 19]: Grace [God’s undeserved favor; God’s initiative in reaching out to undeserving sinners] and peace [the wholeness resulting from salvation; there is no peace without grace first] be yours in abundance [God has an inexhaustible supply of grace and peace].

1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy [means God has not given us what our rebellion against Him does deserve] he has given us new birth [cf. Jesus and Nicodemus (Jn. 3:1-21)] into a living hope [underscores the future orientation of believers’ lives in Christ; to live in the present with eyes on eternity; cf. Peter’s use of the word “hope” in 1:3,13,21; 3:5,15] through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead [the central reality of our faith; in the resurrection, God vindicated Jesus as His Son (Rom. 1:4)],

1:4 and into an inheritance [means “a possession”] that can never perish [stated positively: perpetual], spoil [stated positively: pure] or fade [stated positively: permanent]—kept in heaven for you [for believers],

1:5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time [at the return of Christ].

1:6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while [a short time in comparison with their eternal salvation (1:5) and reward (1:4)] you may have had to suffer grief [to be distressed] in all kinds [various or “many colored”] of trials [included persecution].

1:7 These have come so that your faith—of greater worth [genuine faith will not perish when tested thus making it more valuable than gold] than gold, which perishes even though refined [tested] by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed [second coming].

1:8 Though you have not seen [cf. Jn. 20:29] him, you love [Gr. “agapao” or love in its highest form] him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe [Gr. “pisteuo” is the verb form of the noun translated “faith” in 1:9] in him and are filled with an inexpressible [nobody can fully explain it] and glorious joy [the opposite of the distress or sorrow caused by various trials],

1:9 for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls [in NT refers to the entire person: body, mind, and spirit].

1:10 Concerning this salvation, the prophets [Isaiah (9:2-7; 11:1-9; 53:1-12), Joel (2:28-32), and Micah (4:1-5) foretold God’s coming salvation and grace], who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care,

1:11 trying to find out the time [when their prophecies (concerning the Messiah) would be fulfilled] and circumstances [concerning the Messiah’s coming] to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow.

1:12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves [i.e., the people of their own time] but you [recipients of Peter’s letter were privileged to experience what the prophets did not live to see (the fulfillment of the prophetic vision of Messiah)], when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those [including Peter] who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels [have not experienced the kind of salvation from sin that saved humans have experienced] long to look into these things [how God’s plan of salvation is being accomplished].

1:13 Therefore [word indicates that what follows flows from what preceded (1:1-12); marks transition from declaration of truth (1:1-12) to exhortation to action], prepare your minds [“gird up the loins of your mind” as men who wore long robes gathered them up in order to run or to work] for action; be self-controlled [sober, serious, fully-rational]; set your hope [“a living hope” (1:3)] fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed [second coming; God’s ultimate deliverance in eternity].

1:14 As obedient children [believers must behave in the way their Heavenly Father asks them to], do not conform [Gr. “suschematizo” means to fashion or conform (cf. Rom. 12:2)] to the evil desires [Gr. “epithumia” often refers to sexual lusts or passions and also to other worldly desires such as greed for material things; any desire for satisfaction apart from God; former pagan practices; former moral laxity] you had when you lived in ignorance [of God and His Word; cf. “empty way of life” in 1:18].

1:15 But [word signals change between former pagan lives and present Christian lives] just as he who called you is holy [utterly set apart from sin], so be holy [set apart for God’s service; to conform our lives to God’s standards and character; the plural of the word “holy” is “saints”] in all you do;

1:16 for it is written [cf. Lev. 11:44-45; 19:2; 20:7]: “Be holy, because I am holy.”

1:17 Since you call on a Father who judges each man’s work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear.

1:18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers,

1:19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.

1:20 He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake.

1:21 Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.

1:22 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth [obeying the gospel command to repent and receive Christ as Lord by faith] so that you have sincere [Gr. “anupokritos” which means “not hypocritical”] love [Gr. “agapao”] for your brothers [Gr. “philadelphia”], love one another [fellow believers (members of God’s family)] deeply, from the heart.

1:23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed [as of an earthly father whose seed gives temporal (or perishable) life], but of imperishable [as of our Heavenly Father whose seed (used metaphorically) gives eternal (or imperishable) life], through the living and enduring word of God [His Word is the standard for all our faith and practice].

1:24 For [or “for it is written” as in 1:16; cf. Isa. 40:6-8], “All men are like grass [cf. Ps. 103:15-16], and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall,

1:25 but the word of the Lord stands forever.” And this is the word that was preached [as the gospel] to you.