What in the Word? When Did Jesus Preach to Spirits in Prison? | Thomas Schreiner on 1 Peter 3:18–22
Apr 9, 2025
Thomas Schreiner, a distinguished New Testament scholar at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, dives into the enigmatic 1 Peter 3:18–22. He unpacks the meaning behind Jesus preaching to spirits in prison, exploring interpretations from the Augustinian view to the idea of second chances for the wicked. The discussion links Christ's suffering and resurrection to the encouragement of believers facing persecution. Ultimately, Schreiner emphasizes humility in theological debates and the significance of Christ's victory over evil, offering hope to those in adversity.
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Context of 1 Peter 3:18-22
- 1 Peter 3:18-22 discusses Christ's preaching to spirits in prison within the context of suffering.
- Peter encourages believers to endure suffering by highlighting Christ's suffering and ultimate victory.
Difficulties in 1 Peter 3:18-22
- The main difficulties in 1 Peter 3:18-22 lie in interpreting Christ's proclamation to the spirits in prison and the meaning of baptism saving.
- Multiple interpretations exist for who the spirits are, when and what Christ proclaimed, and how baptism saves.
Augustinian View
- The Augustinian view suggests Christ preached through Noah to his contemporaries, offering repentance.
- This interpretation connects "spirits in prison" to those who disobeyed during Noah's time.
