Verse Smart · Commentary comparison
What do the great Christian commentators say about 1 Peter 5:7? Below is a side-by-side look at how Matthew Henry, John Calvin, Charles Spurgeon, Albert Barnes, and John Wesley read this passage — where they agree, where they diverge.
1 Peter 5:7 · WEB
“Casting all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.”
Summaries are AI-rendered overviews of public-domain commentaries (Henry, Calvin, Spurgeon, Barnes, Wesley). Always consult primary sources for study.
Late 17th Century
Henry stresses that believers should hand over all their worries to God because He is dependable and actively cares for them. This act of casting cares requires trust and helps ease the burden of life's troubles, leading to peace.
“Give all your worries to God, for He really cares about you.”
Mid-16th Century
Calvin explains that Peter urges believers to throw their anxieties onto God, meaning to entrust everything to His providence and care. This is possible because God is a father who watches over His children, so we ought not to be troubled by future worries.
“Trust God with your concerns because He watches over you with fatherly care.”
Late 19th Century
Spurgeon calls this verse a divine command for Christians to cast their anxieties on God, emphasizing the strength and certainty of His care. He views it as a practical way to find relief from burdens by trusting in the Lord's watchful love.
“Unload all your troubles onto God, because His loving care is certain.”
Mid-19th Century
Barnes interprets 'casting care' as a deliberate act of entrusting all our needs and burdens to God, emphasizing His concern for us. This should free believers from all overwhelming anxiety, knowing that God will sustain them.
“Place all your concerns on God, as He is deeply concerned for you.”
18th Century
Wesley understands this as a call to fully commit all our anxieties and concerns to God, highlighting His personal and loving care for each believer. This act of complete trust brings peace and frees us from the weight of worry.
“Give every single worry to God, knowing He personally cares for you.”