1 Peter 1:17

Since you call on a Father who judges each one's work impartially, conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners.

Study Bible

Since you call on a Father
The phrase "call on a Father" emphasizes the intimate relationship believers have with God. The Greek word for "call" (ἐπικαλέω, epikaleō) suggests invoking or appealing to someone with authority. In the context of a "Father," it highlights the familial bond and the privilege of addressing God with the same intimacy and respect as a child to a parent. This relationship is rooted in the Old Testament understanding of God as a Father to Israel (Isaiah 63:16), and it is deepened in the New Testament through the work of Christ, who enables believers to become children of God (John 1:12).

who judges each one's work impartially
The concept of God as a judge is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. The Greek word for "judges" (κρίνω, krinō) implies a discerning and authoritative evaluation. The term "impartially" (ἀπροσωπολήμπτως, aprosōpolēmptōs) underscores God's fairness and justice, indicating that He does not show favoritism (Acts 10:34). This impartial judgment is a call to accountability, reminding believers that their actions are seen and evaluated by God, who is just and righteous. It reflects the biblical principle that God looks at the heart and motives behind actions (1 Samuel 16:7).

conduct yourselves in reverent fear
The phrase "conduct yourselves" (ἀναστρέφω, anastrephō) refers to one's manner of life or behavior. The call to live "in reverent fear" (φόβος, phobos) is not about being terrified of God but rather having a profound respect and awe for His holiness and authority. This reverence is rooted in the understanding of God's majesty and the believer's accountability to Him. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom," indicating that such fear leads to a life of wisdom and obedience.

during your stay as foreigners
The term "foreigners" (παροικία, paroikia) reflects the transient and temporary nature of the believer's life on earth. It echoes the Old Testament imagery of the Israelites as sojourners and exiles (Leviticus 25:23). This perspective encourages believers to live with an eternal mindset, recognizing that their true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). The idea of being "foreigners" serves as a reminder to not become too attached to worldly things but to focus on the eternal promises of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
The apostle of Jesus Christ, traditionally believed to be the author of this epistle, writing to encourage and instruct believers.

2. God the Father
Referred to as the impartial judge, emphasizing His role in evaluating the deeds of believers.

3. Believers
The recipients of the letter, described as "foreigners" or "sojourners," indicating their temporary status on earth and their heavenly citizenship.

4. Judgment
The event where God evaluates the works of each individual impartially.

5. Foreigners/Sojourners
A metaphor for Christians living in the world but not being of it, highlighting their temporary residence on earth.

Teaching Points

Understanding God’s Impartiality
God’s judgment is based on His perfect justice and fairness. Believers should live with the awareness that their actions are seen and evaluated by God, who shows no favoritism.

Living as Foreigners
Christians are called to live as temporary residents on earth, with their ultimate allegiance to God’s kingdom. This perspective should influence their values, priorities, and conduct.

Reverent Fear
Reverent fear is not about being afraid of God but having a deep respect and awe for His holiness and authority. This attitude should guide believers in their daily lives.

The Role of Works
While salvation is by grace through faith, works are the evidence of genuine faith. Believers are encouraged to live out their faith through actions that reflect God’s character.

Eternal Perspective
Keeping an eternal perspective helps believers navigate the challenges of life, reminding them that their true home is with God and that their current life is temporary.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God as an impartial judge influence your daily decisions and actions?

2. In what ways can you live as a "foreigner" in this world, and how does this perspective affect your priorities?

3. What does "reverent fear" mean to you, and how can you cultivate this attitude in your relationship with God?

4. How do your works reflect your faith, and what areas might need more alignment with God’s will?

5. How can maintaining an eternal perspective help you deal with current challenges or temptations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 2:6-11
This passage also speaks of God’s impartial judgment, reinforcing the idea that God evaluates each person based on their deeds.

Philippians 3:20
Paul describes believers as citizens of heaven, which complements Peter’s description of Christians as foreigners on earth.

Hebrews 12:28-29
Encourages believers to worship God with reverence and awe, similar to Peter’s exhortation to conduct themselves in reverent fear.

James 2:17-26
Discusses the importance of works as evidence of faith, aligning with the idea that God judges each one’s work.

2 Corinthians 5:10
Paul speaks of the judgment seat of Christ, where believers will be recompensed for their deeds, echoing the theme of divine judgment.