1 Peter 2:21
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
Study Note
Study Note
Peter grounds the call to patient suffering under unjust masters in the example of Christ: 'because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.' The word 'example' (hypogrammos) is a writing exercise in which students trace over the teacher's letters — implying that Christ's life is not merely an inspiration but a pattern to be reproduced. The following quotation of Isaiah 53 (2:22-25) interprets Christ's suffering as simultaneously exemplary (to be followed) and redemptive (bearing our sins) — the two functions held together rather than distinguished. The verse became foundational for Christian martyrology: Polycarp, Ignatius, and later martyrs understood their suffering as a following in Christ's steps.
Other Translations
For hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that ye should follow his steps:
for to this ye were called, because Christ also did suffer for you, leaving to you an example, that ye may follow his steps,
This is God's purpose for you: because Jesus himself underwent punishment for you, giving you an example, so that you might go in his footsteps:
Cross References
Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps.
And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall …
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up …
And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come …
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the …
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up …
For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?
If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and …
And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.