THE FIRST EPISTLE GENERAL OF PETER - Chapter 3 - Verse 8

Verse 8. Finally. As the last direction, or as general counsel in reference to your conduct in all the relations of life. The apostle had specified most of the important relations which Christians sustain, (1 Pe 2:13-25; 3:1-7;) and he now gives a general direction in regard to their conduct in all those relations.

Be ye all of one mind. See Barnes "Ro 12:16".

The word here used (omofrwn) does not elsewhere occur in the New Testament. It means, of the same mind; like-minded; and the object is to secure harmony in their views and feelings. Having compassion one of another. Sympathizing, (sumpayeiv;) entering into one another's feelings, and evincing a regard for each other's welfare. See Barnes "Ro 12:15".

Comp. 1 Co 12:26; Joh 11:35. The Greek word here used does not elsewhere occur in the New Testament. It describes that state of mind which exists when we enter into the feelings of others as if they were our own, as the different parts of the body are affected by that which affects one. See Barnes "1 Co 12:26".

Love as brethren. Marg., loving to the; i.e., the brethren. The Greek word (filadelfov) does not elsewhere occur in the New Testament. It means loving one's brethren; that is, loving each other as Christian brethren.—Rob. Lex. Thus it enforces the duty so often enjoined in the New Testament, that of love to Christians as brethren of the same family. See Barnes "Ro 12:10".

Comp. Heb 13:1; Joh 13:34.

Be pitiful. The word here used (eusplagcnov) occurs nowhere else in the New Testament, except in Eph 4:32, where it is rendered tender-hearted. See Notes on that verse.

Be courteous. This word also (filofrwn) occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. It means friendly-minded, kind, courteous. Later editions of the New Testament, instead of this, read (tapeinofronev) of a lowly or humble mind. See Hahn. The sense is not materially varied. In the one word, the idea of friendliness is the one that prevails; in the other, that of humility. Christianity requires both of these virtues, and either word enforces an important injunction. The authority is in favour of the latter reading; and though Christianity requires that we should be courteous and gentlemanly in our treatment of others, this text can hardly be relied on as a proof-text of that point.

{a} "one mind" Ro 12:16 {1} "of another" "loving to the" {b} "love" 1 Jo 3:18