Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

1 PETER 3:22KJV
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1 Peter 3:22 (KJV)

What does 1 Peter 3:22 mean?

1 Peter 3:22 describes Jesus Christ as having gone into heaven and now being at the right hand of God, with all angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him. This verse emphasizes Jesus’ exalted position and his authority over all spiritual beings.

Peter, writing to early Christians facing hardship, points to Jesus’ resurrection and ascension as proof of his ultimate victory and authority. The verse reassures believers that Jesus, who suffered and was vindicated, now reigns with God, and that every spiritual power is under his control.

The Greek behind 1 Peter 3:22

  • “Subject” (ὑποτάσσω, hypotassō): This Greek word means to be placed under authority or made subordinate. Here, it stresses that every angelic and spiritual power is now under Jesus’ rule, highlighting his complete authority.
  • “Authorities” (ἐξουσίαι, exousiai) and “powers” (δυνάμεις, dynameis): These terms often refer to different ranks or types of spiritual beings in the unseen world. Their mention shows the scope of Jesus’ authority, not just over humans but over all spiritual realms.
  • “Right hand” (δεξιᾷ, dexia): In ancient contexts, being at the right hand was a position of honor and power. The verse uses this image to show Jesus’ unique status beside God.

Why 1 Peter 3:22 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Jesus’ authority is not limited to earth but extends over every spiritual force, which would reassure believers facing persecution or spiritual opposition.
  • By connecting Jesus’ suffering, resurrection, and exaltation, Peter encourages Christians to trust that faithfulness, even through hardship, leads to ultimate vindication.
  • The verse ties into the larger message of 1 Peter, which urges believers to remain steadfast, knowing that the one they follow now reigns supreme over all creation.

Where else these words appear

“subject” Greek G5293 · used in 32 verses

  • Luke 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him.
  • Titus 2:9 Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again;

“hand” Greek G1188 · used in 53 verses

  • Matthew 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
  • Mark 16:5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
  • Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

“authorities” Greek G1849 · used in 93 verses

  • Matthew 7:29 For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
  • Luke 20:20 And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor.
  • Ephesians 1:21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

“powers” Greek G1411 · used in 116 verses

  • Matthew 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
  • Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:4 For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.