Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia… 1 Peter 1:1
Today we’re starting a new expository devotional series in Apostle Peter’s first of two epistles. I believe this letter will not only encourage each of us to view life through the lens of scripture more clearly, but also help and prepare us to endure difficult times, staying strong in the faith and always trusting that God is right by our side through every trial. It is overflowing with practical teaching we can apply to our lives every day.
Let’s begin with an overview and introduction to this letter:
1st Peter was written between 64 and 65 A.D., right around the time of the Great Fire of Rome, for which Nero wrongfully blamed the Christians, and leading into a time of extreme persecution of believers. As we see in the first verse, it was written to a number of churches across the region, many of which were suffering for their faith and likely wondering why God was allowing it.
There is little argument against this epistle being the work of Peter, the same Peter who was the disciple of Jesus, the one who walked on water, denied Christ three times, and preached boldly to the masses after the Holy Spirit was given at Pentecost.
While this letter is penned in “classical Greek,” which admittedly would have been unlikely for a common fisherman to know so well, this is easily explained by Peter’s note in 1 Peter 5:12 that states, “by Silvanus…I have written briefly to you.” As with Paul’s letters, dictation was common in this era, and experienced transcribers were used to assist with the proper use of grammar and syntax in written documents. In no way does this take away from the true authorship or inspiration of the letter.
Peter’s letter centers on triumphant and faithful living in times of trial, persecution and suffering, not losing hope or becoming bitter, always trusting God, and ultimately keeping our eyes looking upward in anticipation of Christ’s glorious return.
Peter reminds believers that they are secure in Christ, that oppression is to be expected, that we must behave honorably around unbelievers, humbly submit to ruling authorities, and remain strong and righteous when being persecuted for our faith. He also highlights the rewards of suffering for Christ, requirements for leaders in the Church, the necessity for adherence to the proper family structure, and finally the beautiful promise of eternal glory that awaits each faithful believer.
While you and I are not suffering great persecution for Christ at this moment, many believers are in our world today. Christians are being murdered, kidnapped, tortured, and sold into slavery in places like Nigeria. We should not be so naïve to think that God will spare us from all suffering for His name’s sake, but instead realize that Christ promised that trials and tribulations would be part of our lives when walking with Him (see John 16:33). So in every way, Peter’s letter is just as relevant and important to Christians today as it was in 65 AD, and we should strive take its lessons to heart as much as we can, at the same time being filled with gratitude and thanksgiving that we have it so relatively easy.
Our present state of comfort should not be taken for granted, and my hope is that as we go through this letter we will find a greater appreciation for those who have given up everything to boldly follow Christ, and that we also soak up the many lessons it contains so that we can live strong in the faith no matter what we are facing today or in the future.