A History of the Interpretation of 1 Peter 3:18–22

Abstract

This article presents and briefly examines the various major interpretations of 1 Peter 3:18-22 down through history. These interpretations focus on the identity of 'the spirits in prison', the location of their imprisonment, and the time and nature of Christ's proclamation. It becomes clear that the interpretations have often been influenced by external theological considerations or by contemporary debates. It is concluded that the socio-religious context of the audience of 1 Peter and the author's purpose in including this passage have been largely overlooked.