1 Peter

About 1 Peter

First Peter is a letter of hope for believers scattered across Asia Minor who were facing insults and hostility for their faith. Peter reminds them who they are, a chosen people born again to a living hope, and shows them how to live honorably as outsiders in a world that misunderstands them. It teaches that suffering for doing good follows the pattern of Christ, who suffered and was then raised to glory.

Written by

The letter names the apostle Peter as its author, writing with the help of Silvanus; most have accepted that, though some scholars think its polished Greek points to a secretary or a later follower.

When

If Peter wrote it, it dates to the early 60s AD, before his death under Nero; scholars who see a later author suggest AD 70-90.

Themes

• Living hope
• Suffering with Christ
• Holiness as God's people
• Exiles in the world
• Humility and trust

Key verses

• 1 Peter 1:3-5Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
• 1 Peter 2:9-10But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
• 1 Peter 5:6-7Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.