1 Peter 3:17

Modern

For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

Traditional

For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

Literal

For it is better to suffer doing good, if the will of God wills it, than doing evil,

Latin

Melius est enim benefacientes (si voluntas Dei velit) pati, quam malefacientes.

Greek

English

For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

This short paragraph emphasizes how Christians should respond to suffering by following Christ's example (see 3:18).

Theme notes and profiles

1 Peter 3:14
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be shaken.”
1 Peter 4:19
So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should entrust their souls to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
Matthew 26:39
Going a little farther, He fell facedown and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will.”
Acts 21:14
When he would not be dissuaded, we quieted down and said, “The Lord’s will be done.”
Matthew 26:42
A second time He went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cup cannot pass unless I drink it, may Your will be done.”
1 Peter 2:20
How is it to your credit if you are beaten for doing wrong and you endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.
1 Peter 2:15
For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorance of foolish men.
1 Peter 4:15
Indeed, none of you should suffer as a murderer or thief or wrongdoer, or even as a meddler.