King James Version

What Does 1 Peter 4:15 Mean?

1 Peter 4:15 in the King James Version says “But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.” — study this verse from 1 Peter chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.”

1 Peter 4:15 · KJV

Context

13

But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

14

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

15

But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.

16

Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

17

For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

Read 1 Peter 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Peter distinguishes righteous from foolish suffering. Only suffering for righteousness merits blessing. Don't claim persecution when experiencing deserved consequences.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Peter prevented romanticizing all suffering. Early church maintained this distinction - martyrs honored only if killed for faith.

Reflection Questions

  1. How can you evaluate whether suffering stems from righteousness or sin?
  2. Why does Peter include meddling alongside serious crimes?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
μὴ1 of 14

“none”

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

γάρ2 of 14

“But”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

τις3 of 14
G5100

some or any person or object

ὑμῶν4 of 14

“of you”

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

πασχέτω5 of 14

“let”

G3958

to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful)

ὡς6 of 14

“as”

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

φονεὺς7 of 14

“a murderer”

G5406

a murderer (always of criminal (or at least intentional) homicide; which g0443 does not necessarily imply; while g4607 is a special term for a public

ἢ8 of 14

“or”

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

κλέπτης9 of 14

“as a thief”

G2812

a stealer (literally or figuratively)

ἢ10 of 14

“or”

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

κακοποιὸς11 of 14

“as an evildoer”

G2555

a bad-doer; (specially), a criminal

ἢ12 of 14

“or”

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

ὡς13 of 14

“as”

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ἀλλοτριοεπίσκοπος·14 of 14

“a busybody in other men's matters”

G244

overseeing others' affairs, i.e., a meddler (specially, in gentile customs)

Study Guide

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 4:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Peter 4:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Thessalonians 3:111 Thessalonians 4:111 Timothy 5:131 Peter 2:19-201 Peter 3:172 Timothy 2:9

Test Your Knowledge

1 Peter 4 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Peter Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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