King James Version

What Does 1 Peter 3:11 Mean?

“Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.”

Context

Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:

Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.

For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. against: Gr. upon

And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?

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Topics in This Verse

Peace

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **Let him eschew evil.**—Literally swerve *out of the way from evil.* The two former clauses dealt with the domain of *word*; these two with the domain of *action.* It suits St. Peter’s intention better to take the verse, not as an exhortation to virtue in general, but as an instruction how to behave under provocation and in danger. The “good” which the man is to do is what is *kind, *not merely what is virtuous; and so, by contrast, the “evil” to be eschewed probably means chiefly what is *malicious.* **Seek peace, and ensue it.**—“As much as in *you* lieth,” says St. Paul, “live peaceably with all men.” It is to be a matter of diligent *search*; and if it seems to flee away it is to be “ensued”—*i.e., *pursued. The active practical measures here prescribed confirm the surmise that “blessing” in 1Peter 3:8 covered more ground than benedictory prayers.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Peter. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Peter 3:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.