Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,

1 PETER 1:20KJV
Know the Bible

1 Peter 1:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Peter 1:20 mean?

1 Peter 1:20 says that Christ was chosen by God for his role before the world was created, but he has only recently been revealed for the benefit of the people Peter is writing to. This verse highlights that Jesus’ coming was not a last-minute plan, but something God intended long before human history began.

Peter, one of Jesus’ closest followers, is writing to early Christians scattered across different regions. He wants them to know that their faith rests on something deeply planned by God, not a new or uncertain idea. The verse stresses both the ancient purpose behind Jesus’ mission and the personal relevance to those now hearing about him.

The Greek behind 1 Peter 1:20

  • προεγνωσμένου (proegnōsmenou, “foreordained”): This word means “foreknown” or “chosen beforehand.” It shows that Jesus’ role was not accidental or reactive, but part of God’s plan from the very beginning.
  • καταβολῆς (katabolēs, “foundation”): This word refers to the “laying down” or “founding” of the world. It emphasizes how early God’s plan for Christ was set—before anything else existed.
  • ἐφανερώθη (ephanerōthē, “manifest”): This means “made visible” or “revealed.” It points out that although Jesus’ purpose was set long ago, it only became clear and visible in recent times.
  • ἐσχάτου (eschatou, “last”) and χρόνων (chronōn, “times”): These words together mean “last times” or “final period.” Peter is saying that the appearance of Christ is something happening in the closing chapter of God’s plan, making it especially significant for his readers.

Why 1 Peter 1:20 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that Jesus’ life and mission were a response to unexpected events; instead, it shows that God’s plan for salvation was set before the world began.
  • It connects the readers’ faith to a much larger story, giving them confidence that their beliefs are rooted in God’s ancient purpose, not a passing trend.
  • The verse also links the “last times” to the readers’ own experience, showing that what God planned long ago is now coming true for them personally.

Where else these words appear

“foreordained” Greek G4267 · used in 5 verses

  • Acts 26:5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.
  • Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
  • Romans 11:2 God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,

“foundation” Greek G2602 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 13:35 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.
  • John 17:24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.
  • Hebrews 9:26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.

“manifest” Greek G5319 · used in 43 verses

  • Mark 4:22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
  • 2 Timothy 1:10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:

“before” Greek G4253 · used in 48 verses

  • Matthew 5:12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
  • John 5:7 The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.
  • Romans 16:7 Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.