1 Peter Epistle Overview

Introduction

• I Peter is a “General Epistle” addressed to the church at large.
• It is called the ‘Lovely Letter’ and was written to help Christians undergoing persecution.

Author

• The epistle’s author is Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ.
• The author was personally acquainted with Jesus’ life and teachings.
• The writer had seen Christ.

Recipients

• Addressed to “the elect who are sojourners of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia.”
• The use of the Jewish term diaspora implies the letter was sent to Jewish Christians.

Date

• Written from Babylon (5:13), scholars debate if this refers to Mesopotamia or Rome.
• The epistle was likely written shortly before the persecution under Nero in A.D. 64.

Key Information

• The epistle’s key theme is suffering for the cause of Christ.
• The key verses are I Peter 1:10-12 and 4:12, 13.
• The key chapter is I Peter 4.
• The letter contains 5 chapters and 105 verses.

Outline

• God's Grace and Salvation - 1:1-2:10
• God's Grace and Submission - 2:11-3:12
• God's Grace and Suffering - 3:13-5:11

Purpose

• To encourage readers to endure suffering for Christ’s sake.
• To emphasize the importance of patiently facing trials and temptations.
• To remind believers of their future glory and hope.

Special Features

• Emphasizes the equality of Jewish and Gentile Christians.
• Reflects Old Testament modes of thought and expression.
• Contains many quotations and references from the Old Testament.
• Focuses on God's character and actions as the Father, Creator, and Judge.
• Emphasizes faith in God through the mediation of Christ.

Christ in I Peter

• Christ is presented as the believer’s example and hope in times of suffering.
• He is the foundation for the Christian’s “living hope” and “inheritance.”
• The love relationship available with Him through faith brings joy.
• His suffering and death offer redemption for all who trust in Him.
• Christ is the Chief Shepherd and Overseer of believers.

Summary of I Peter

The Salvation of the Believer (1:1—2:1-2):

• Introduces God's salvation work through the Godhead in the salutation.
• Explores the riches of salvation by looking at:
  • The future inheritance (1:3-5)
  • The present joy amidst trials (1:6-9)
  • The past prophetic proclamation of God's grace (1:10-12)
• Encourages believers to pursue sanctification and holiness.
• Exhorts readers to desire God's Word and act as holy priests.

The Submission of the Believer (2:13-3:I2):

• Focuses on believer’s relationships in the world.
• Encourages submission to government and social authority as a Christ-like response.
• Advocates for submission in marriage relationships.
• Uses Christ as the model of suffering, which is sinless, silent, and for salvation.
• Summarizes the appeal for Christ-like submission and humility.

The Suffering of the Believer (3:13—5:14):

• Prepares readers to defend their faith with intelligence and grace.
• Highlights the importance of suffering for righteousness, not sin.
• Encourages believers to move away from worldly desires and pursue God's will.
• Exhorts believers to strengthen their love, exercise spiritual gifts, and endure slander.
• Emphasizes God's sovereignty and ultimate vindication.
• Calls on elders to be diligent and gentle shepherds.
• Encourages believers to clothe themselves with humility and resist the adversary.
• Concludes with a summary of the key theme, greetings, and benediction.

Explore the key themes and context of the General Epistle of I Peter. This quiz covers its authorship, audience, and significant verses that address suffering for Christ. Gain deeper insights into the message and relevance of this letter for early Christians.