As Peter continues his focus on respectful submission to authority (2:13-25), he addresses Christian wives at the start of chapter 3. Ladies, would you like to know what will attract your husband and draw him to you? Try “a gentle and quiet spirit.” It’s not only precious in the sight of God, it also appeals to men. Even non-Christian husbands are likely to be influenced by a wife whose “respectful and pure conduct” displays an inner beauty that’s not dependent on fancy clothes or fine jewelry. She’s not argumentative, demanding, or aggressive, but eager to listen, help, and encourage. Likewise, Christian husbands are called to relate to their wives in an understanding way, not using their physical strength to overpower or intimidate, but to serve their wives, honoring them as equal partners in Christ (v 1-7). Unity, tenderness, and humility are not only advised for husbands and wives, but for every believer in all their relationships. When mistreated by others, we’d like to retaliate somehow. But a blessing is promised for those who resist this temptation, guarding their tongues and turning from evil. It may seem unnatural to “do good” and “seek peace” in these situations. But with a clear conscience and full confidence in Christ, we’ll then be ready to engage in spiritual conversations—always with “gentleness and respect” (v 8-17). If we suffer unfairly, we should remember that Christ also suffered for doing good, even to the point of death. He died as our substitute, “the righteous for the unrighteous,” a one-time payment for the sins of all who believe. Jesus is the only bridge to God—a message which Christians are called to proclaim. The people of Noah’s day mocked him for doing good and bearing witness to his faith. But the Spirit of Jesus was preaching through Noah, as He speaks through us today. Sadly, the people of Noah’s day refused to listen to God’s messenger, so God judged them. For Peter, those flood waters are a reminder of the spiritual cleansing that’s now pictured in the waters of baptism. Why? Baptism reminds us of what we deserve because of our sins: we deserve to be flooded out! But when we are submerged in the waters of baptism, we come back out of the water, symbolizing that we are being kept alive in the midst of God’s judgment. As Noah fled to the ark, we have fled to Christ, and in Him we are saved. It took great faith for Noah to enter the ark, and we too must exercise faith if we would be rescued from God’s wrath. So baptism becomes a picture of our salvation, though Peter is quick to add: the water itself does not save; confession of sin and personal commitment are what count (v 18-22). For further meditation: