The Subversive Submission of Women in 1 Peter 3:1–6

Authors

  • Kirsten Spolar Gordon College Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15664/79vc3950

Keywords:

1 Peter, women, submission, Household codes

Abstract

First Peter 3:1–6 presents a context-sensitive and theologically significant model of evangelism for first century Christian women married to non-Christian husbands. This article situates the passage within its historical and cultural context through examining the Roman honour-shame value system and the household codes (oikonomiai). It then places 1 Pet 3:1–6 within the broader thematic framework of the letter, looking particularly its emphasis on submission as Christian witness, and offers an exegetical reading informed by these insights. It concludes that 1 Peter does not reinforce Roman patriarchal norms, but instead affirms the moral agency of women, portraying their voluntary Christ-like submission as a strategic and faithful means of evangelism within a restrictive social environment.

Author Biography

  • Kirsten Spolar, Gordon College

    Kirsten Spolar is an undergraduate student at Gordon College studying Biblical Studies and Theology. She has enriched her theological training through classes at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and a semester abroad studying in the University of Oxford. In her free time, she enjoys choral singing, watching anime with her brothers, and embroidery. Her academic interests include New Testament studies, early Christianity, liberation theologies, and the intersection of psychology and theology—particularly as these fields relate to neurodiversity and mental health. She hopes to pursue further study in theology at the graduate and postgraduate levels to contribute thoughtful scholarship that serves both the academy and the church. 

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Published

2026-06-30

Issue

Vol. 1 (2026): Martyria

Section

Research Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Kirsten Spolar (Author)

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How to Cite

The Subversive Submission of Women in 1 Peter 3:1–6. (2026). Martyria, 1, 17–26. https://doi.org/10.15664/79vc3950