1 Peter

Peter writes to scattered believers, praising God for a living hope through the resurrection. Their faith, more precious than gold, is being tested. He calls them to set their hope fully on Christ's grace and to be holy in all conduct, since they were redeemed not with perishable things but with the precious blood of Christ.

Believers are living stones being built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood. They are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. Peter urges them to live honorably among pagans. He holds up Christ as the example of suffering unjustly—when He suffered, He did not retaliate but entrusted Himself to God.

Peter instructs wives and husbands on mutual respect in marriage. He urges all believers to be compassionate, humble, and ready to give an answer for the hope within them, with gentleness and respect. Christ suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring us to God.

Peter calls believers to arm themselves with Christ's mindset of suffering. He urges them to live for God's will, not human desires, and to use their gifts to serve others. Do not be surprised by fiery trials—rejoice that you share in Christ's sufferings. Judgment begins with God's household.

Peter exhorts elders to shepherd God's flock willingly and humbly, not for gain. He urges younger believers to submit to elders. He commands all to cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. He warns them to be alert—the devil prowls like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour.