Among the traditions inherited from the fathers (1 Peter 1:18) was the possibility of a slave somehow coming upon enough money (silver or gold) to purchase his freedom. Long-lasting though elements as silver and gold might be, their value is nevertheless passing, perishable. This contrasts with the “inheritance” the redeemed had received through the resurrection of Jesus Christ; that inheritance was “imperishable, undefiled and unfading” (1 Peter 1:3–4). A slave who managed to purchase his own freedom could find himself enslaved again; one ransomed through Jesus’ blood is eternally free.
18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold,