1 Peter 3:11-12
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It's not enough to just avoid doing wrong; we're called to actively do good as if it's our job. And when it comes to peace, the original language pushes us further, urging us not to just seek it, but to actively chase after it, like a hunter pursuing their prey.
let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
Peter is offering practical advice to believers on how to live a life that honors God, especially in the face of suffering and persecution. This verse builds on the call to live righteously and shows that true godliness isn't passive but actively involves a turning from wrongdoing, a deep yearning for peace, and a determined effort to achieve it. What follows directly is a reminder that God hears those who do right and actively opposes those who do wrong, reinforcing the importance of this active pursuit.
It's not enough to just avoid doing bad things. This verse calls us to a more active stance.
Peter doesn't just say 'don't do evil.' He says 'let him turn away from evil.' This implies a decisive, intentional movement. It's like physically stepping back from a precipice, refusing to let it drag you down. This turning requires recognizing evil for what it is – destructive and contrary to God's nature – and then making a conscious choice to disengage. It’s a daily, moment-by-moment decision to align our actions with righteousness.
Peace isn't passive; it demands our energy and focus. How do we 'pursue' it?
The second part of the verse shifts to peace. But it’s not a passive waiting game. Peter uses the word 'seek' and then intensifies it with 'pursue.' This isn't about hoping for peace to magically appear; it's about actively chasing after it. This means we must be willing to put in the effort, to make the compromises (that don't compromise righteousness), and to work towards reconciliation even when it’s difficult. It's a proactive stance that requires diligence, perseverance, and a deep desire for God's shalom.
Understand the original words
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kakos · Greek Adjective/Noun
Refers to moral wickedness, corruption, or that which is contrary to God's character and will; it encompasses both sinful deeds and malicious intent.
eirēnē · Greek Noun
The state of wholeness, well-being, and harmony, both between God and man and among people. It represents the wholeness that results from living in right relationship with God.
dikaios · Greek Adjective
Those who are justified before God through faith and, consequently, live in conformity with His moral laws. It describes a status of legal standing and the resulting righteous character.
deēsis · Greek Noun
A specific address to God involving petitions, praise, or confession. It signifies a humble dependence upon God and the assurance of His attention to the believer's voice.
This Psalm echoes the same core message of actively choosing goodness and seeking out peace, underscoring the enduring importance of this principle.
Matthew 5:9Jesus' teaching in the Beatitudes directly identifies the peacemakers as children of God, highlighting the divine nature and reward of pursuing peace.
Romans 12:18The Apostle Paul urges believers to live peaceably with everyone, but this passage adds the crucial context of making every effort to do so, mirroring Peter's call to 'pursue' peace.
1 John 3:18This passage connects doing good and loving others to the truth of God's love, showing that active goodness is not just a choice but a demonstration of genuine faith.
It's not enough to just avoid doing wrong; we're called to actively do good as if it's our job. And when it comes to peace, the original language pushes us further, urging us not to just seek it, but to actively chase after it, like a hunter pursuing their prey.
Peter is offering practical advice to believers on how to live a life that honors God, especially in the face of suffering and persecution. This verse builds on the call to live righteously and shows that true godliness isn't passive but actively involves a turning from wrongdoing, a deep yearning for peace, and a determined effort to achieve it. What follows directly is a reminder that God hears those who do right and actively opposes those who do wrong, reinforcing the importance of this active pursuit.
Peter is offering practical advice to believers on how to live a life that honors God, especially in the face of suffering and persecution. This verse builds on the call to live righteously and shows that true godliness isn't passive but actively involves a turning from wrongdoing, a deep yearning for peace, and a determined effort to achieve it. What follows directly is a reminder that God hears those who do right and actively opposes those who do wrong, reinforcing the importance of this active pursuit.
"let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”" — It's not enough to just avoid doing wrong; we're called to actively do good as if it's our job. And when it comes to peace, the original language pushes us further, urging us not to just seek i…
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Last reviewed October 2026
