1 Peter 1:22

Purified. This first phrase reads literally, “having purified your souls.” The Greek implies that Peter’s hearers had consecrated themselves in the past and that the cleansed condition continued. See on 1 John 3:3. The cleansing work is done under the guidance, and with the aid, of the Holy Spirit (see on 1 Peter 1:2).

Souls. Gr. psuchai, plural of psuche (see on Matt. 10:28), here the seat of the will, of the desires, and of the passions.

In obeying. Literally, “in the obedience.” The definite article points to that very obedience which the truth of the gospel demands. The purification of the total man can be accomplished only by his submission to God’s will.

Truth. Literally, “of the truth,” that is, directed to the truth. For a definition of “truth” see on John 8:32; see also on John 1:17; 17:17. Truth is not only to be known, it must be practiced before it becomes effective.

Through the Spirit. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the omission of these words. However, that the Holy Spirit is the enabling power in man’s obedience, is frequently taught in the Scriptures (see on Rom. 8:4).

Unfeigned. Gr. anupokritos, “undisguised,” “without hypocrisy.” The positive noun form, hupokrites, is transliterated into our English word “hypocrite.”

Love of the brethren. Gr. Philadelphia (see on Rom. 12:10). Obedience to the truth must result in love for the brethren. See on John 13:34; 1 John 2:9-11; 3:10-18.

Love. Gr. agapad, the affection that is governed by reason and understanding, and which seeks the best good of the one so loved (see on Matt. 5:43; John 21:15).

With. Or, “out of,” “stemming from,” stressing the depth of the source of Christian love.

Pure. Textual evidence is divided (cf. p. 10) between retaining and omitting this word.

Fervently. Gr. ektends, “extendedly,” “earnestly” (see on Acts 12:5), from which we derive the English “extend.” Christian affection must extend over many areas in another’s life that may not be lovable in themselves. It covers all incidents and includes all people (see on 1 Cor. 13:7).