1 Peter 3:8-12

Peter gives the positive attitudes we should all have all of the time. We are to live in harmony with each other, love one another, and be compassionate and humble towards each other. We all know people where these attitudes are very much lacking, but it is also true that we can find the opposite of these attitudes arising in us. This happens because of the flesh. We need to be on our guard (remember that earlier Peter told us to prepare our minds for action), and when we notice the opposite of these attitudes arising we need to do something about it.

I have heard it said that it is how we react that shows us what we are really like. This may be true, but it is very unhelpful. When we are saved we are born again and new life comes into us, but we also need to crucify the flesh, to take off the old self. When we become aware of the old self reasserting itself we need to choose not to give into it, but instead to choose positive Christian virtues, eg choose to forgive. In this way we put the old self to death. Putting the old self to death is a process. If at times we fail (as we all do), then we need to repent quickly and put things right.

We are not to repay evil with evil, but with blessing. Jesus said we are to love our enemies. Abraham was chosen to be a blessing to all nations, the same applies to us. We were chosen to bless not to curse.

Peter then quotes from Psalm 34:12-16 to back up his teaching. In short, we are to turn away from evil, and turn towards good.