The epistle text for this week has been examined, probed, dissected, allegorized and argued about by biblical scholars since the days of Augustine. Ironically, the main focus of this text is usually not the primary interest of scholarly inquiries.

The epistle writer is making a case for Christians to endure suffering while remaining righteous. The writer naturally turns to Christ himself as the ultimate example of suffering for righteousness' sake. But as the writer continues to develop this theme, he chooses to use a unique example which is both textually and theologically problematic. In verses 19-20, readers suddenly find themselves learning about what seems to be a post-Crucifixion, perhaps even post-Resurrection appearance by Christ before imprisoned spirits, disobedient leftovers fr…