1 Peter 4:19 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Conclusion from 1 Peter 4:17-18. Since the godly know that their sufferings are by God's will, for their good (1 Peter 4:17), to chasten them that they may not perish with the world, they ought to trust God cheerfully amidst sufferings, persevering in well doing.

Let them - Greek, 'let them also,' as well as those not suffering. Not only in ordinary circumstances, but also in suffering, let believers commit, etc. (cf. note, 1 Peter 3:14).

According to the will of God - (note, 1 Peter 3:17.)

In well doing - B 'Aleph ('); but A, Vulgate, read 'well doings' (contrast ill doings, 1 Peter 4:15). Our committing of ourselves to God is to be, not in indolent quietism, but accompanied with active well doings.

Faithful - to His covenant promises. Creator - who is therefore our Almighty Preserver. He, not we, must keep our souls. Sin destroyed the spiritual relation between us and the Creator, leaving that only of government. Faith restores it: the believer, living to the will of God (1 Peter 4:2), rests implicitly on his Creator's faithfulness.

1 Peter 4:19

19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.