1 Peter 3:18

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

Study Bible

For Christ also suffered
The phrase "For Christ also suffered" connects the suffering of Christ to the broader theme of suffering in the Christian life. The Greek word for "suffered" is "ἔπαθεν" (epathen), which implies enduring pain or hardship. This suffering is not just physical but encompasses the totality of Christ's sacrificial experience. Historically, this reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53, which foretold the suffering servant. Christ's suffering is a model for believers, demonstrating that suffering can have a redemptive purpose.

for sins once for all
The phrase "for sins once for all" emphasizes the completeness and sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. The Greek term "ἅπαξ" (hapax) means "once" or "once for all," indicating that Christ's sacrificial act was definitive and unrepeatable. This contrasts with the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament, as described in Hebrews 10:10, which were a shadow of the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. Theologically, this underscores the finality of Christ's atonement, providing eternal redemption for those who believe.

the righteous for the unrighteous
Here, "the righteous for the unrighteous" highlights the substitutionary nature of Christ's atonement. The Greek word "δίκαιος" (dikaios) means "righteous" or "just," referring to Christ's sinless nature. In contrast, "ἀδίκων" (adikon) means "unrighteous" or "wicked," describing humanity's sinful state. This substitutionary atonement is central to the gospel message, where the sinless Christ took upon Himself the sins of the world, as seen in 2 Corinthians 5:21. It is a profound demonstration of God's love and justice.

to bring you to God
The purpose of Christ's suffering is "to bring you to God." The Greek word "προσαγάγω" (prosagagō) means "to bring" or "to lead," indicating a movement towards reconciliation and relationship. This phrase encapsulates the heart of the gospel: restoring the broken relationship between humanity and God. Through Christ's sacrifice, believers are granted access to God, as emphasized in Ephesians 2:18, where both Jews and Gentiles are brought near through Christ.

He was put to death in the body
The phrase "He was put to death in the body" refers to the physical death of Christ. The Greek word "θανατωθείς" (thanatōtheis) means "put to death" or "killed," underscoring the reality of Christ's crucifixion. This historical event is central to Christian faith, as it fulfills the prophecies of a suffering Messiah and demonstrates the extent of God's love for humanity. The physical death of Christ is a testament to His full humanity and His willingness to endure the ultimate sacrifice.

but made alive in the Spirit
Finally, "but made alive in the Spirit" speaks to the resurrection and the power of the Holy Spirit. The Greek word "ζῳοποιηθείς" (zōopoiētheis) means "made alive" or "quickened," indicating the transformative power of the resurrection. This phrase highlights the victory of Christ over death and His exaltation by the Spirit. Theologically, it assures believers of their future resurrection and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, as seen in Romans 8:11. It is a promise of new life and eternal hope for all who are in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Christ
The central figure of Christianity, Jesus Christ is the Son of God who came to earth, lived a sinless life, and offered Himself as a sacrifice for humanity's sins.

2. The Righteous for the Unrighteous
This phrase highlights the substitutionary atonement of Christ, where the sinless Jesus took the place of sinful humanity to reconcile them to God.

3. Death and Resurrection
The event of Jesus' crucifixion and subsequent resurrection, which is foundational to Christian faith, demonstrating His victory over sin and death.

Teaching Points

Substitutionary Atonement
Christ's death was a one-time, all-sufficient sacrifice for sins. Believers can rest in the assurance that their sins are fully paid for.

Reconciliation with God
The purpose of Christ's suffering was to bring us to God. This emphasizes the relational aspect of salvation, encouraging believers to cultivate a personal relationship with God.

Victory Over Death
Christ's resurrection signifies victory over death and sin, offering believers hope and assurance of eternal life.

Living in the Spirit
As Christ was made alive in the Spirit, believers are called to live by the Spirit, walking in newness of life and empowered for godly living.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Christ's substitutionary atonement impact your view of sin and forgiveness?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a deeper relationship with God, knowing that Christ's sacrifice was to bring you to Him?

3. How does the resurrection of Christ influence your daily life and perspective on challenges you face?

4. What does it mean to you to live "made alive in the Spirit," and how can you apply this in your daily walk with Christ?

5. How can the assurance of Christ's "once for all" sacrifice encourage you in sharing the gospel with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 53
This Old Testament prophecy speaks of the suffering servant who bears the sins of many, paralleling the concept of Christ suffering for the unrighteous.

Romans 5:6-8
Paul discusses the love of God demonstrated through Christ dying for the ungodly, reinforcing the idea of substitutionary atonement.

Hebrews 9:28
This verse speaks of Christ being offered once to bear the sins of many, echoing the "once for all" sacrifice mentioned in 1 Peter 3:18.

2 Corinthians 5:21
Paul explains that Christ, who knew no sin, became sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God.