as obedient children, not conforming to the former lusts, as in your ignorance;
Truth to Learn
Leave your past in the past and humbly follow God’s leading.
Behind the Words
The word translated “obedient” is the Greek word hupakoē, which is made up of hupo (or hypo), meaning “under” and a form of akouo, meaning “to hear.” Hence, it literally means “to hear under,” that is “to listen to the instruction of someone over you, like a parent or a teacher.” But it means more than just passive listening, it implies obedience to what was taught to you.
“Conforming” is translated from suschēmatidzō, a compound word made up of sun, meaning “together with” and schemētidzō, meaning “to make a pattern.” Hence, this word refers to “someone making something to match with a pattern.” It is expressed here in the middle voice, indicating the action is being done by the subject (yourselves), to the subject.
The word translated “lusts” is epithumia, which is made up of epi, meaning “upon” or “over” and a form of thumos, meaning “a strong emotion or desire.” Hence, this word refers to an overly strong desire or emotion.
Meaning Explained
Peter is continuing the thought from the previous verse about being prepared for action and focusing on the reward that is to come. Now he is saying be attentive and submissive, and don’t pattern your life around the former lusts that used to entrap you. First off, he says we need to be obedient. Regarding obedience, the Apostle John said:
And by this we know that we have known Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, I have known Him, and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His Word, truly in this one the love of God is perfected. By this we know that we are in Him. (1 John 2:3-6)
Then, Peter tells us not to conform to our former lusts. Here’s another caution the Apostle Paul gave about conforming:
And do not be conformed to this world [system], but be transformed by the renewing of your mind … (Romans 12:2)
About these lusts, the Apostle James said:
But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. (James 1:14, 15)
So you see, Peter is telling us that we are in the midst of spiritual warfare, and we need to follow the commands given by our Father. And, our actions need to demonstrate that we have changed since we got saved and that we truly are children of God. Peter will finish the rest of this thought in the next verse.
Application
Are you daily preparing yourself for spiritual warfare? Are you in the midst of the battle? Or have you settled back into satisfying your own desires instead of submitting to God?
In God's service, for His glory,
Copyright © 2016 Will Krause. All rights reserved