1 Peter 3:13

Verse 13. And who is he that will harm you?

There can be little fear of harm from any one, if you do good to those who do you evil. You, being a follower of good, it must in reason be observed, and, if so, no result of evil should befall you. But, whether or not, you are right, and God is with you, approving the right, and therefore no real harm can come upon you.

Here I desire to present some thoughts that may be of benefit in grasping in full the thoughts contained in verse 10, 11, 12, and 13. Logic is more or less in my line of thought and inquiry. The reason of things, as far as I deem proper, that is within my field of legitimate vision, I endeavor to discover. Now, as to these verses. The apostle, in my judgment, is presenting arguments designed to induce men to practice a virtuous course of life, at least so,far as they come in contact with their fellowmen:

1. Happiness in this life may be attained by a strict compliance with the instructions in verses 10 and 11 contained. This is a strong argument in favor of pursuing the course therein indicated.

2. God's favor and protection are assured to one who pursues such a course. (See verse 12.) To name this as an argument of power is all that need be done.

3. Men must be hardened in iniquity indeed who are not softened, if not overcome, by such a course. (See verse 13.)

The potency of this argument is easily apprehended. Taken all together, the reasoning is strong for pursuing the course of conduct commended by the apostle.