King James Version

What Does 1 Peter 4:6 Mean?

1 Peter 4:6 in the King James Version says “For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the... — study this verse from 1 Peter chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.

1 Peter 4:6 · KJV


Context

4

Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:

5

Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.

6

For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.

7

But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

8

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. shall: or, will


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Peter explains gospel preaching to the dead. "For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead" (eis touto gar kai nekrois euēngelisthē). "Them that are dead" (nekrois) likely refers to believers now deceased who heard gospel while alive. The purpose: "that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit" (hina krithōsin men kata anthrōpous sarki zōsin de kata theon pneumati). They were "judged according to men in flesh"—suffered persecution/martyrdom judged by humans. But "live according to God in spirit"—despite physical death, they live spiritually with God. Gospel preached to them secured eternal life despite earthly death.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This difficult verse generated multiple interpretations. Most likely: gospel was preached to people now dead (believers who died, especially martyrs). Though judged/killed by humans physically, they live eternally with God spiritually. This encouraged living believers—deceased Christian loved ones aren't lost but alive with God despite physical death. Alternative view links to 3:19, seeing Christ preaching to Old Testament dead. Either way, verse affirms gospel's power extends beyond physical death—those who believe live eternally despite earthly death. Early church comforted bereaved believers with resurrection hope—death doesn't end existence for Christians but transitions to life with God.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does knowing deceased believers 'live according to God in spirit' despite human judgment/death comfort you regarding Christian loved ones who've died?
  2. What does this verse teach about the relationship between physical death and spiritual life for believers?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 17 words
εἰς1 of 17

for

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τοῦτο2 of 17

this cause

G5124

that thing

γὰρ3 of 17

For

G1063

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

καὶ4 of 17

also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

νεκροῖς5 of 17

to them that are dead

G3498

dead (literally or figuratively; also as noun)

εὐηγγελίσθη6 of 17

was the gospel preached

G2097

to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel

ἵνα7 of 17

that

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

κριθῶσιν8 of 17

they might be judged

G2919

by implication, to try, condemn, punish

μὲν9 of 17
G3303

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

κατὰ10 of 17

according to

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

ἀνθρώπους11 of 17

men

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

σαρκὶ12 of 17

in the flesh

G4561

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

ζῶσιν13 of 17

live

G2198

to live (literally or figuratively)

δὲ14 of 17

but

G1161

but, and, etc

κατὰ15 of 17

according to

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

θεὸν16 of 17

God

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

πνεύματι17 of 17

in the spirit

G4151

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin


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 4:6 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 4:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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