First Peter was written to believers scattered throughout Asia Minor who were facing increasing persecution. Peter, who himself would eventually be martyred, writes to encourage them—and us—to find hope in Christ during difficult times.
A Living Hope
Peter begins by grounding believers in their glorious inheritance:
"Blessed 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." — 1 Peter 1:3-4
The Nature of This Hope
- It is living—not dead religion but vibrant reality
- It is based on Christ's resurrection—historical fact
- It leads to an imperishable inheritance—eternally secure
The Purpose of Trials
"Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ." — 1 Peter 1:6-7
Trials Are:
- Temporary — "for a season"
- Purposeful — "if need be"
- Refining — like gold tested by fire
- Faith-revealing — proving genuineness
The Outcome:
Tested faith results in "praise and honour and glory" when Christ appears.
Holy Living
"But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy." — 1 Peter 1:15-16
Peter calls believers to live differently from the world, reflecting the character of the God who saved them.
Living Stones
"Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ." — 1 Peter 2:5
Believers are:
- Living stones — built on Christ, the cornerstone
- A spiritual house — God's temple
- A royal priesthood — offering spiritual worship
- A holy nation — set apart for God
- A peculiar people — His treasured possession
Submission and Suffering
Peter addresses various relationships where believers might face unjust treatment:
Citizens (2:13-17)
Submit to governing authorities, honoring the king even when it's difficult.
Servants (2:18-25)
Submit even to harsh masters, following Christ's example of unjust suffering.
"For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps." — 1 Peter 2:21
Wives and Husbands (3:1-7)
Wives should influence unbelieving husbands through godly conduct. Husbands should honor their wives.
Suffering for Righteousness
"But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled." — 1 Peter 3:14
How to Respond:
- Sanctify Christ as Lord in your heart (3:15)
- Always be ready to explain your hope
- Respond with gentleness and reverence
- Keep a good conscience so accusers are ashamed
Fiery Trials
"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings." — 1 Peter 4:12-13
Suffering for Christ should not surprise us. It connects us to Christ and will result in future glory.
Suffering as a Christian
"If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf." — 1 Peter 4:16
There is honor in bearing Christ's name through difficulty.
Final Encouragements
To Elders (5:1-4)
Shepherd God's flock willingly, eagerly, and as examples.
To the Young (5:5)
Submit to elders and clothe yourselves with humility.
To All (5:6-11)
- Humble yourselves under God's mighty hand
- Cast your anxieties on Him because He cares for you
- Be sober and vigilant against the devil
- Resist him firm in faith
- Trust God who will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you
Key Verse
"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." — 1 Peter 5:7
Applying 1 Peter
- Do you view your trials as refining fires or random misfortunes?
- Is your hope anchored in Christ's resurrection and your eternal inheritance?
- Are you living as a holy people, distinct from the world?
- Do you respond to suffering with faith and gentleness?
- Have you cast your anxieties on the One who cares for you?
May the living hope Peter describes sustain you through every trial you face!