1 Peter 3:2: When They See Your Respectful And Pure Conduct.

1 Peter 3:2

[2] when they see your respectful and pure conduct. (ESV)

Peter is continuing in describing how wives are to be subject to their husbands. This is not an easy word, but it is consistent with the preceding verses that describe all of the institutions of mankind that we are required to be subject to. This subjection is not because it is always fair, or even fun, but rather it is something that we do as unto the Lord, and following the Savior himself who was subject to injustice.

The respect and pure conduct that the wife displays has the power to actually bring a non-believing husband to faith in Christ without her even saying a word. That is powerful. Emerson Eggerichs wrote a book called, Love and Respect. His main proposition is that Scripture commands women to respect their husbands, and husbands to love their wives. He suggests that it is hard for women to be respectful.

“Unfortunately, a wife’s usual approach is to complain and criticize in order to motivate her husband to become more loving. This usually proves about as successful as trying to sell brass knuckles to Mother Teresa.”
― Emerson Eggerichs, Love and Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs. I think Eggerichs is on to something here. Respect will attract a husband. Criticism repels him.

Eggerichs goes on to say that men have a hard time being loving. This dual tension is key to healthy relationships. Peter is taking this a step further. He is using a woman's respectful attitude and her pure conduct as a means of evangelism! Is it easy for a woman to endure an unloving, unbelieving husband? Of course not. However, Scripture compels women to endure, being respectful and pure.

If you are a married woman, please hear God's invitation for you to be respectful. If you are a married man, please hear the Lord instructing you to love your wife. These are critical things. Seek the Lord's help. His Holy Spirit is there for you.