or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good.
English Standard Version (ESV)
What's really striking here is that God Himself is the source of the authority given to rulers to punish wrongdoers and reward the good. This isn't just about human governments; Peter is pointing to a divine endorsement of their role, even when imperfectly carried out. It challenges us to see even secular authority through a spiritual lens, as an instrument God uses.
or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Peter is explaining to believers scattered abroad how they should live as faithful followers of Jesus within the Roman Empire, even when facing persecution. He’s just urged them to submit to every human authority for the Lord’s sake, and now he clarifies the God-ordained purpose of rulers: to maintain order by punishing wrongdoers and commending the righteous. This instruction comes as a framework for understanding their civic responsibilities, even from those who might be hostile to their faith.
Ever wondered who's really in charge when leaders make decisions? This verse offers a surprising perspective on earthly rulers.
Peter is reminding believers that even pagan rulers, like the governors mentioned, hold their positions by God's permission. This doesn't mean God endorses every action of every ruler, but that the structure of authority is established by Him.
Divine Mandate
Governors and officials are 'sent by Him.' This points to a divine appointment for the office itself. God’s sovereign plan allows for the existence of governing authorities, even those who don't acknowledge Him.
What is the job description for a good leader? Peter unpacks the core responsibilities delegated by God.
The verse clearly outlines two key functions of good governance: punishing wrongdoers and praising those who do right. This is the framework God established for maintaining order and justice in society.
Accountability and Affirmation
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Peter's instruction for believers to respect governing authorities, even corrupt ones, was given during a time of intense imperial suspicion and persecution, highlighting the radical nature of his call to obedience and good conduct.
c. 64 AD
Great Fire of Rome
A devastating fire swept through Rome, leading Emperor Nero to blame Christians and initiate the first large-scale persecution.
c. 64-67 AD
Peter's Ministry in Rome
Tradition holds that the Apostle Peter was in Rome during this period, likely ministering to the Christian community facing intense pressure and persecution.
c. 67 AD
Martyrdom of Peter
According to tradition, Peter was martyred in Rome, likely under Emperor Nero's brutal reign.
c. 64-68 AD— this verse
Writing of 1 Peter
Peter is believed to have written this letter from Rome (referred to as 'Babylon' in 1 Peter 5:13) to churches in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).
This passage lays out the foundational principle that governing authorities are established by God, directly supporting the idea that governors are 'sent by him' to maintain order and justice.
Genesis 9:6This earlier covenant law establishes the principle that shedding innocent blood is a severe offense, reinforcing the governmental responsibility to punish those who commit evil.
Deuteronomy 1:17This verse emphasizes the impartiality required of judges and leaders, echoing the command to 'praise those who do good' and not show favoritism.
Proverbs 31:8-9This passage directly calls rulers to 'speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves' and 'defend the rights of the poor and needy,' highlighting the 'praise those who do good' aspect of leadership.
What's really striking here is that God Himself is the source of the authority given to rulers to punish wrongdoers and reward the good. This isn't just about human governments; Peter is pointing to a divine endorsement of their role, even when imperfectly carried out. It challenges us to see even secular authority through a spiritual lens, as an instrument God uses.
Peter is explaining to believers scattered abroad how they should live as faithful followers of Jesus within the Roman Empire, even when facing persecution. He’s just urged them to submit to every human authority for the Lord’s sake, and now he clarifies the God-ordained purpose of rulers: to maintain order by punishing wrongdoers and commending the righteous. This instruction comes as a framework for understanding their civic responsibilities, even from those who might be hostile to their faith.
Peter is explaining to believers scattered abroad how they should live as faithful followers of Jesus within the Roman Empire, even when facing persecution. He’s just urged them to submit to every human authority for the Lord’s sake, and now he clarifies the God-ordained purpose of rulers: to maintain order by punishing wrongdoers and commending the righteous. This instruction comes as a framework for understanding their civic responsibilities, even from those who might be hostile to their faith.
"or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good." — What's really striking here is that God Himself is the source of the authority given to rulers to punish wrongdoers and reward the good. This isn't just about human governments; Peter is pointing t…
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Last reviewed October 2026