1. 1 Peter 5:9 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What is the meaning the word “resist”?

1 Peter 5:9 (ESV)

9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

The term is another imperative, instructing the readers to (literally) “stand against” this roaring devil as he seeks to dominate. It’s interesting to note that Peter does not use words like “run” or “flee” or even “fight.” The picture is instead that as the devil seeks to exercise dominance the Christian resists by simply standing. He knows his adversary cannot dominate because Christ has triumphed (1 Peter 3:22).