1 Peter 2:18–25

Abstract

“Household slaves, submit by accepting the authority of your masters with all respect... but also to those who are harsh” (1 Peter 2:18, CEB). To the ears of contemporary readers who seek fairness and social justice, this exhortation might sound politically incorrect. The Petrine author does not condemn the system of slavery nor its abuses. Instead, the author seems to embrace suffering, including physical abuse in some cases: if slaves are to suffer for doing wrong, they should endure their suffering (v. 20). Worse, the author is aware of their unjust suffering but advises them to accept it and describes it as commendable in the sight of God (vv. 19–20).