1 Peter

1 Peter is a letter from the apostle Peter to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, regions of Asia Minor where believers were facing hostility for their faith. Peter writes from Babylon, widely understood as a code name for Rome, with Silvanus as his scribe and Marcus at his side. The fisherman whom Jesus restored now shepherds a scattered flock, addressing Christians as elect sojourners, people whose true citizenship lies elsewhere while they endure fiery trials where they live.

The letter opens with a doxology to the God who has begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, an inheritance incorruptible reserved in heaven. Peter calls his readers a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, redeemed not with silver and gold but with the precious blood of Christ. He gives instructions for living honestly among the Gentiles, submitting to rulers and masters, and for husbands and wives, all patterned on Christ, who suffered for us, leaving an example. Believers must be ready always to give an answer for their hope, cast all their care on God, and resist the devil, who walks about as a roaring lion.

1 Peter matters because it teaches the church how to suffer well: not surprised by the fiery trial, but rejoicing as partakers of Christ's sufferings. Its promise stands for every generation of pressured believers: after ye have suffered a while, the God of all grace will make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.