3:8 one mind. That “one mind” should be the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:2,5).

3:8 compassion. This phrase suggests, “sympathizing with” one another.

3:8 love as brethren. Literally, “loving the brethren” (I John 3:14).

3:8 pitiful. This word can be translated “tender-hearted” (Ephesians 4:32).

3:8 courteous. “Courteous” means, literally, “being humble of mind” (Colossians 3:12).

3:9 railing. Neither evil deeds nor railing words should be a Christian’s response.

3:9 called. Note I Peter 2:9,21-23. We are called to follow Christ and the example He has set for us.

3:10 love life. I Peter 3:10-12 is essentially quoted from Psalm 34:12-16. Thus a controlled tongue is a secret contribution to a long and happy life.

3:11 eschew evil. The venerable English word “eschew” is not used much today, perhaps because there is not much evil that people eschew any more. The Greek word is ekklineo, meaning to “incline away from.” It is used only two other times, being translated “avoid” in Romans 16:17 and “gone out of the way” in Romans 3:12. The latter verse indicates that the ungodly eschew doing good. Those who would love real life and see good days should “do good” and “eschew evil.”

3:11 ensue it. This is the only use of “ensue” in the Bible. It means “pursue” (see Psalm 34:14).

3:12 eyes of the Lord. See note on II Chronicles 16:9. Note also Proverbs 15:3 and Zechariah 4:10.

3:12 against them that do evil. One cannot properly expect God to answer his prayers if he is guilty of unconfessed, unrepented sin. See also James 4:3; Psalm 66:18.