1 Peter 1:18

Forasmuch as ye know. Or, “because you know,” stating an additional ground for godly fear.

Redeemed. Gr. lutrod, “to release on receipt of ransom.” For a discussion of the closely related noun lutron, “ransom,” see on Matt. 20:28.

Corruptible. Or, “perishable,” in contrast with the eternal nature of Christ’s offering.

Silver and gold. Precious minerals are examples of “perishable” things that can have no part in the price of man’s redemption. Although earthly slaves were purchased and freed by means of silver or gold, man’s spiritual ransom depends on an infinitely more precious payment (v. 19).

Vain. Gr. mataios, “useless” (see on 1 Cor. 15:17). Apart from Christianity man stands helpless in his attempts to eradicate personal and social evils. He finds no satisfying meaning in this present life and no certain hope for the future.

Conversation. Gr. anastrophe (see on v. 15).

By tradition from your fathers. Or, “handed down from your fathers.” A distinctly new way of life was needed to supplant the aimless, futile philosophy of paganism.