1 Peter 2:20
What does 1 Peter 2:20 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Peter 2:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Peter 2:20 means
There is no credit for enduring punishment when one has done wrong; that is merely bearing due consequences. But if one does good and still suffers, and bears it patiently, “this is acceptable with God.” Divine approval rests on righteous suffering received without bitterness. This standard guards believers from glorifying suffering itself; only undeserved affliction endured in faith pleases God. Such patience testifies that the believer’s hope is anchored beyond present fairness, in God who sees and will vindicate. It is a high calling, possible because God Himself strengthens those who suffer for doing well.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000For what glory is it, if, when ye sin, and are buffeted for it, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye shall take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
KJV
King James Version · 1611For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901For what glory is it, if, when ye sin, and are buffeted for it, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye shall take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949What credit is it if, when you have done evil, you take your punishment quietly? but if you are given punishment for doing right, and take it quietly, this is pleasing to God.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862for what renown <FI>is it<Fi> , if sinning and being buffeted, ye do endure <FI>it<Fi> ? but if, doing good and suffering <FI>for it<Fi> , ye do endure, this <FI>is<Fi> gracious with God,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752For what glory is it, if, committing sin and being buffeted for it, you endure? But if doing well you suffer patiently: this is thankworthy before God.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890For what glory [is it], if sinning and being buffeted ye shall bear [it]? but if, doing good and suffering, ye shall bear [it], this is acceptable withGod.
Context
Verse 20 clarifies the moral calculus introduced in verse 19: not all suffering is alike. With the distinction made, verse 21 will reveal that believers are actually called to this path, because Christ suffered for them and left an example. The following verses (22–25) will trace His sinless endurance, trust in God’s judgment, atoning death, and shepherding care, providing both model and motivation for the readers’ trials.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Ephesians 5:10
proving what is well-pleasing unto the Lord;
- Matthew 26:67
Then did they spit in his face and buffet him: and some smote him with the palms of their hands,
- 1 Peter 3:14
But even if ye should suffer for righteousness’ sake, blessed are ye: and fear not their fear, neither be troubled;
- 1 Peter 4:14
If ye are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are ye; because the Spirit of glory and the Spirit of God resteth upon you.
- Matthew 5:10
Blessed are they that have been persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- Luke 6:32
And if ye love them that love you, what thank have ye? for even sinners love those that love them.
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