1 Peter 2:11

Dearly beloved. Gr. agapetoi, “beloved ones,” from agape, which stresses the idea of intelligent, selfless love (see on Matt. 5:43).

Beseech. Or, “urge.”

Strangers. Gr. paroikoi, “aliens,” that is, foreign settlers who do not enjoy the rights of citizenship (see on Eph. 2:19; cf. 1 Peter 1:1, 17).

Pilgrims. Gr. parepidemoi, “sojourners,” “strangers,” “exiles” (see on 1 Peter 1:1; cf. Heb. 11:13).

Abstain. Christians are to remain without “spot” or “blemish” (see on Eph. 5:27) in the midst of a morally degenerate world. They are to avoid every contact with evil habits and practices. This is what sets them apart as “strangers” and “pilgrims” in this world. They stand aloof from its degrading pleasures and devote themselves to things of the spirit.

Fleshly. Gr. sarkikos, “fleshly,” “carnal” (see on 1 Cor. 3:1).

Lusts. Gr. epithumiai, “desires,” “longings,” “lusts” (see on John 8:44; Rom. 7:7; cf. on Matt. 5:28).

War. Gr. strateud, “to wage a campaign,” “to give battle.” The remnants of sinful inclinations maintain a persistent warfare within the mind of the Christian until the grace of Christ immunizes him against the “fleshy lusts” that war against the soul (see on Rom. 7:21-25).

Soul. Gr. psuche (see on Matt. 10:28), here referring to the higher faculties of man, the conscience and the will (cf. 1 Peter 1:9, 22).