{11} Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; {12} knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

(11) We must not only not recompense injury for injury, but we must also recompense them with benefits.

(12) An argument taken by comparison: Seeing that we ourselves are unworthy of so great bountifulness, than forgive one another's faults? And from this verse to the end of the chapter, 1Pe 3:9-22, there is a digression, to exhort us valiantly to bear afflictions.

People's New Testament

3:9 Not rendering evil for evil... but contrariwise blessing. Peter enjoins good deeds for evil, and blessing for reviling, because any other course would be inconsistent with the Christian calling.

Knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. Called to a heritage of blessing they must live lives of blessing, for as a man soweth so also shall he reap (Ga 6:7).

Wesley's Notes

3:9 Ye are called to inherit a blessing - Therefore their railing cannot hurt you; and, by blessing them, you imitate God, who blesses you.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

9. evil-in deed.

railing-in word.

blessing-your revilers; participle, not a noun after "rendering."

knowing that-The oldest manuscripts read merely, "because."

are-Greek, "were called."

inherit a blessing-not only passive, but also active; receiving spiritual blessing from God by faith, and in your turn blessing others from love [Gerhard in Alford]. "It is not in order to inherit a blessing that we must bless, but because our portion is blessing." No railing can injure you (1Pe 3:13). Imitate God who "blesses" you. The first fruits of His blessing for eternity are enjoyed by the righteous even now (1Pe 3:10) [Bengel].

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary

3:8-13 Though Christians cannot always be exactly of the same mind, yet they should have compassion one of another, and love as brethren. If any man desires to live comfortably on earth, or to possess eternal life in heaven, he must bridle his tongue from wicked, abusive, or deceitful words. He must forsake and keep far from evil actions, do all the good he can, and seek peace with all men. For God, all-wise and every where present, watches over the righteous, and takes care of them. None could or should harm those who copied the example of Christ, who is perfect goodness, and did good to others as his followers.