1 Peter 3:20
Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
1 Peter 3:20 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse from 1 Peter 3:20 speaks about the disobedient people during the time of Noah. It reflects on how God patiently waited for them to repent while Noah was building the ark. The ark was a symbol of salvation, as only eight souls were saved by water. This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's will and the consequences of disobedience. It also emphasizes God's patience and mercy towards sinners, giving them time to turn back to Him. The story of Noah and the flood serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and following God's instructions, even in the face of adversity. Through this verse, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own obedience to God and to understand the significance of His grace in providing salvation.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from 1 Peter highlights the concept of God's longsuffering and patience towards humanity. It emphasizes how even in the face of disobedience, God waits patiently, giving people time to repent and turn back to Him. The reference to the days of Noah and the story of the ark serves as a reminder of God's mercy and salvation. The word "longsuffering" in this context signifies God's endurance in the face of human sinfulness, allowing for the opportunity for redemption. The mention of eight souls being saved by water through the ark can be seen as a foreshadowing of baptism in the New Testament, symbolizing cleansing and new life in Christ. This verse underscores the importance of repentance and obedience to God's call, as well as the assurance of salvation through faith in Him.
1 Peter 3:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
that aforetime were disobedient, when the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water:
World English Bible
who before were disobedient, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, while the ship was being built. In it, few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.
Douay-Rheims
Which had been some time incredulous, when they waited for the patience of God in the days of Noe, when the ark was a building: wherein a few, that is, eight souls, were saved by water.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Which were in time passed disobedient, when once the long suffering of God abode in the dayes of Noe, while the Arke was preparing, wherein fewe, that is, eight soules were saued in the water.