I Peter

What is the reason this book was written?

Peter wrote this book to encourage the believers that God had not abandoned them though they were facing difficult times because of persecution (5:12). Peter wanted them to see that it was actually good for them to endure testing and that God is a good God (1:7).

What is the main idea?

The main idea of I Peter is that the people of God are royalty (2:9-11). This helped give the believers hope in God and also the strength and desire to keep persevering. As royalty Peter calls them to live lives that are holy (1:15-16). Because Christ suffered here on earth we can suffer for his name. The must give up their rights to their own lives just as Jesus had done (4:1-2).

What is the important historical background?

The book was written by the apostle Peter to Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia (1:1). They were suffering under persecution as well as other believers in other cities (5:9). Peter wrote this from “Babylon” which some would say is code for Rome (5:13).

What does this book show about the character and nature of God?

God has no favorites! (1:17). An important theology for the church to understand, because Jesus had opened the door for all those who believe in him. Jesus is the living stone, the foundation to our faith. Those who stumble over him are doomed to hell, but those who accept him gain eternal life free from their sins (2:4-8).