But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
What does 1 Peter 3:4 mean?
The wife must discharge her duty to her own husband, though he obey not the word. We daily see how narrowly evil men watch the ways and lives of professors of religion.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside 1 Peter 3:3-7 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on 1 Peter 3:4
But let it be the hidden man of the heart - This expression is substantially the same as that of Paul in Romans 7:22 , "the inward man." See the notes at that place. The word "hidden" here means that which is concealed; that which is not made apparent by the dress, or by ornament. It lies within, pertaining to the affections of the soul. In that which is not corruptible - Properly, "in the incorruptible ornament of a meek and quiet spirit." This is said to be incorruptible in contradistinction to gold and apparel. They will decay; but the internal ornament is ever enduring.
Key words
- a man of the heart
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a man of the heart.
- hidden
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hidden. It lies within, pertaining to the affections of the soul.
Context in 1 Peter 3
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1 Peter 3 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as suffering after Christ’s pattern. First Peter calls believers a holy people in exile, formed by Christ’s suffering and destined for glory. Read this chapter with the wider themes of exile, hope, and holiness in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
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