- 3:1-7 includes Peter’s admonition to husbands and wives. Peter begins both 3:1 and 3:7 with the phrase “in the same way.” What do you think he means? In other words, “in the same way” as what? (HINT: Check the extended context preceding these verses for clues.)
- From 3:1-6, Peter is addressing wives. What is the specific marriage situation that Peter is addressing here? In other words, is he talking to all wives, or a particular set of wives in these verses?
- In 2:18 Peter speaks directly to slaves. In 3:1-6, he speaks directly to wives. Both of these audiences would have been surprising to the original audience. In moral writings of their day, people did not address the moral conduct of slaves (because they were considered less than human), or wives (because it was assumed that they would just do what their husbands did.) What does it tell us about God that He would have Peter address women in this way in 3:1-6?
- Does this passage instruct women to not care for their physical appearance? If so, why do you think that? If not, what do you think it is saying about physical appearance? What is the application of these verses for women? For men?
- 3:6 highlights Sarah as an example for godly wives today because she called Abraham (her husband) her master. It is important to note that the Hebrew word translated “master” or “lord” (see Genesis 18:12) is actually the same word for “sir.” In calling Abraham this word, she was simply indicating a great deal of respect for her husband, not indicating that she was inferior to him. In what ways can wives show their husbands honor today?
- 3:7 is a great challenge to husbands. How would you summarize Peter’s commands to husbands in these verses?
- Husbands are to live with their wives in an “understanding way” NASB (“considerate” way NIV). This literally means that they are to live with their wives in a knowledgeable way. Husbands are to know their wives and respond to them based on this knowledge. What do you think this means practically?
- What do you think the phrase, “treat them with respect as the weaker partner” means practically for husbands?
- In what ways might a husband’s prayers be hindered because of problems with their relationship with their wives?