1 Peter opens with “Born Again to a Living Hope” and carries its history toward “Casting All Your Care upon Him.” Written to scattered exiles across five Roman provinces, and the tone is joy under pressure. He writes to elders as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ.
A clear path through the book’s major scenes, turning points, teachings, and lasting themes.
01
1 Peter 1–2
Born Again to a Living Hope
Written to scattered exiles across five Roman provinces, and the tone is joy under pressure. You are kept by the power of God, and the trial of your faith is more precious than gold that perisheth. Then identity: a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people who were not a people and now are. And a hard instruction, to live so well among the Gentiles that those who speak against you glorify God in the day of visitation.
Marriage described as dwelling together according to knowledge, so that your prayers be not hindered. Then the general rule, which is the spine of the whole letter: render not evil for evil, or railing for railing, but contrariwise, blessing. Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.
The time past of our life sufficeth for what the world wants, and they think it strange that you no longer run with them. Charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality without grudging, and minister your gift to one another as good stewards. Then the turn: think it not strange concerning the fiery trial, as though some strange thing happened unto you. And let none of you suffer as a busybody in other men’s matters.
He writes to elders as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ. Feed the flock, not by constraint but willingly, not for filthy lucre, and not as lords over God’s heritage but as examples to it. Be clothed with humility. Casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil walketh about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
