1 Kefa 3:8-12

Do No Evil

In my last post, we explored about Wives and Husbands. In this post, we learn that we are commanded to Do No Evil.

Kefa concludes his argument from 2:13–3:7 in the verses following 3:8, although this conclusion flows directly into his next argument. It reinforces the sense of mutual consideration Kefa wishes to engender in household relationships, within limitations imposed by the culture he addresses.

⁸ Finally, all of you, be one in mind and feeling; love as brothers; and be compassionate and humble-minded, ⁹ not repaying evil with evil or insult with insult, but, on the contrary, with blessing. For it is to this that you have been called, so that you may receive a blessing. ¹⁰ For

“Whoever wants to love life and see good days
must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit,
11 turn from evil and do good,
seek peace and chase after it.
12 For Adonai keeps His eyes on the righteous,
and His ears are open to their prayers, but the face of Adonai is against those who do evil things.” [1] ~ 1 Kefa 3:8-12 (CJB)

The most pressing need is for unity as Believers, which involves humility and a readiness to develop brotherly love. Retaliation must be exchanged for blessing, a principle which is illustrated from Psalm 34.

Too many congregations are characterized by attitudes and actions that are shameful. But Yeshua told His followers the world would know they are His talmidim if they love one another (John 13:35). Once again, Kefa repeats his Lord’s teaching, telling Believers to love one another. For God’s power and blessings to flow to his people, the Kehilah (church) must live in alignment under King Yeshua. The Kehilah is like an embassy in a foreign land. It’s where the rules and ethics of eternity operate within history.

Before the cross, we are all on equal footing. Therefore, we ought to be compassionate and humble-minded. When insulted, you are to bless so that you may inherit a blessing. God blesses believers with every spiritual blessing in the heavens (Eph 1:3). To access them and see good days, you must place yourself under His rule and authority. That means taming your tongue, turning from evil, doing what is good, and pursuing peace. But those who do what is evil will find Him opposing them.

I deliberately left today’s post short to accommodate my next post which will cover more ground when we will learn about Undeserved Suffering in 1 Kefa 3:13-22.

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[1] Psalm 34:12-16