Title and Author: The book of 1 Peter is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Peter, one of Jesus Christ's closest disciples. The title "1 Peter" reflects its position as the first of two epistles attributed to Peter in the New Testament. The opening verse, "Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:1), affirms his authorship. Conservative scholars uphold Peter's authorship, emphasizing his firsthand experience with Christ and his leadership role in the early church.

Historical Context: 1 Peter was likely written in the early 60s AD, during a time of growing persecution against Christians in the Roman Empire. The epistle addresses believers scattered across Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), who were facing trials and suffering for their faith. This period was marked by social ostracism and legal challenges for Christians, who were often misunderstood and maligned by the surrounding pagan culture.

Audience: The letter is addressed to "the elect and exiles of the Dispersion" (1 Peter 1:1), indicating a primarily Gentile audience living in regions such as Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. These believers were experiencing various forms of persecution and needed encouragement to remain steadfast in their faith.

Purpose: Peter's primary purpose in writing this epistle was to encourage and strengthen the believers amidst their suffering. He aimed to remind them of their living hope in Christ, the inheritance awaiting them, and the call to live holy lives. Peter also sought to instruct them on how to conduct themselves honorably among non-believers, thereby bearing witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Genre and Style: 1 Peter is an epistle, characterized by its pastoral tone and exhortative style. It combines theological teaching with practical instructions, using vivid imagery and Old Testament references to convey its message.1. Peter (1 Peter 1:1)
- Peter, also known as Simon Peter, is the author of the epistle. He was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and a prominent leader in the early Christian church. In this letter, he addresses the believers scattered throughout various regions.

2. Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:1)
- Jesus Christ is central to the message of 1 Peter. He is referred to as the Savior and the cornerstone of the Christian faith. The letter emphasizes His suffering, resurrection, and the hope He provides to believers.

3. Silvanus (Silas) (1 Peter 5:12)
- Silvanus, also known as Silas, is mentioned as the one through whom Peter sends the letter. He was a companion of Paul and a fellow worker in spreading the Gospel.

4. Mark (1 Peter 5:13)
- Mark, also known as John Mark, is referred to as Peter's "son," indicating a close relationship, possibly as a spiritual son or mentee. He is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of Mark.

5. Babylon (1 Peter 5:13)
- While not a person, Babylon is mentioned in a metaphorical sense, often interpreted as a reference to Rome. It is where Peter is writing from, symbolizing a place of exile or oppression.1. Pontus (1 Peter 1:1)
Pontus was a region located in the northeastern part of Asia Minor, along the southern coast of the Black Sea. It was known for its diverse population and was part of the Roman province of Galatia during the time of Peter's writing.

2. Galatia (1 Peter 1:1)
Galatia was a region in central Asia Minor. It was inhabited by Celtic tribes and later became a Roman province. The Galatians were among the early recipients of Christian teachings.

3. Cappadocia (1 Peter 1:1)
Cappadocia was a large region in eastern Asia Minor, known for its unique geological formations and early Christian communities. It was a significant area for the spread of Christianity in the first century.

4. Asia (1 Peter 1:1)
In the context of 1 Peter, "Asia" refers to the Roman province of Asia, located in western Asia Minor. It included important cities such as Ephesus and Smyrna and was a center of early Christian activity.

5. Bithynia (1 Peter 1:1)
Bithynia was a region in the northwestern part of Asia Minor, along the coast of the Black Sea. It was known for its strategic location and was part of the Roman province of Bithynia and Pontus.1. Greeting and Introduction (1:1-2)
Peter opens the letter by identifying himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ and addresses the letter to the "elect exiles" scattered throughout various regions. He extends grace and peace to them.

2. Praise to God for a Living Hope (1:3-5)
Peter praises God for giving believers a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He speaks of an imperishable inheritance kept in heaven for them.

3. Joy in Suffering (1:6-9)
Peter acknowledges the trials the believers are facing but encourages them to rejoice because their faith, tested by fire, will result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

4. The Prophets' Inquiry and the Gospel (1:10-12)
Peter explains that the prophets who foretold the grace to come searched intently to understand the time and circumstances of Christ's sufferings and subsequent glories, which are now revealed to the believers.

5. Call to Holy Living (1:13-16)
Peter urges the believers to prepare their minds for action, be sober-minded, and set their hope fully on the grace to be brought at the revelation of Jesus Christ. He calls them to be holy in all their conduct.

6. Redemption through Christ's Blood (1:17-21)
Peter reminds the believers that they were redeemed not with perishable things but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.

7. Love One Another Deeply (1:22-25)
Having purified their souls by obedience to the truth, Peter exhorts the believers to love one another earnestly from a pure heart, emphasizing the enduring nature of God's word.

8. The Living Stone and a Chosen People (2:4-10)
Peter describes Jesus as the living stone, rejected by men but chosen by God. Believers are also living stones being built into a spiritual house and are a chosen people, a royal priesthood.

9. Submission to Authorities (2:13-17)
Peter instructs the believers to submit to every human authority for the Lord's sake, whether to the emperor or governors, as a testimony to their good conduct.

10. Christ's Example in Suffering (2:18-25)
Peter addresses servants, urging them to endure suffering unjustly, following Christ's example, who suffered for them, leaving an example to follow.

11. Instructions for Wives and Husbands (3:1-7)
Peter provides guidance for wives to submit to their husbands and for husbands to honor their wives, emphasizing mutual respect and understanding.

12. Suffering for Righteousness' Sake (3:13-17)
Peter encourages believers not to fear suffering for doing good, as it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil, and to always be prepared to give a reason for their hope.

13. Christ's Suffering and Victory (3:18-22)
Peter speaks of Christ's suffering once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring believers to God. He also mentions Christ's proclamation to the spirits in prison and His ascension into heaven.

14. Living for God (4:1-6)
Peter urges believers to live for the will of God rather than human desires, having spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do.

15. The End of All Things is Near (4:7-11)
Peter reminds the believers that the end of all things is near and encourages them to be alert and of sober mind, to love each other deeply, and to use their gifts to serve others.

16. Suffering as a Christian (4:12-19)
Peter tells the believers not to be surprised by the fiery ordeal they are undergoing but to rejoice in participating in the sufferings of Christ, and to commit themselves to their faithful Creator.

17. Instructions to Elders and the Young (5:1-5)
Peter exhorts the elders to shepherd God's flock willingly and eagerly, and he encourages the younger members to submit to the elders, all clothing themselves with humility.

18. Final Exhortations and Greetings (5:6-14)
Peter concludes with exhortations to humble themselves under God's mighty hand, to be alert and resist the devil, and extends final greetings, mentioning Silvanus and Mark.1. Suffering and Persecution (1 Peter 1:6)
- Peter acknowledges the trials and sufferings faced by believers, encouraging them to endure with faith. He emphasizes that suffering for righteousness is commendable and aligns believers with Christ's own sufferings. "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials."

2. Hope and Salvation (1 Peter 1:3)
- The letter opens with a message of hope, focusing on the living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This hope is tied to the promise of eternal salvation. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."

3. Holiness and Conduct (1 Peter 1:15)
- Peter calls believers to live holy lives, reflecting God's holiness in their conduct. This involves setting themselves apart from worldly behaviors and living in obedience to God's word. "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do."

4. Identity and Community (1 Peter 2:9)
- Christians are described as a chosen people, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation. This identity calls them to live in unity and to declare God's praises. "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession."

5. Submission and Authority (1 Peter 2:13)
- Peter instructs believers to submit to human authorities and institutions, emphasizing respect and honor as a testimony of their faith. "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority."

6. Christ as the Cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6)
- Jesus is depicted as the cornerstone of faith, essential for the spiritual building of the church. Believers are encouraged to build their lives upon Him. "See, I lay in Zion a stone, a chosen and precious cornerstone; and the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame."

7. Spiritual Growth and Maturity (1 Peter 2:2)
- Peter encourages believers to crave pure spiritual milk to grow in their salvation, highlighting the importance of spiritual nourishment and maturity. "Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation."

8. Love and Relationships (1 Peter 1:22)
- Love is a central theme, with an emphasis on sincere and deep love for one another within the Christian community. "Since you have purified your souls by obedience to the truth, so that you have a genuine love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from a pure heart."

9. Elders and Leadership (1 Peter 5:1)
- Peter addresses the elders of the church, urging them to shepherd the flock willingly and eagerly, serving as examples to the believers. "As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you."

10. Humility and God's Care (1 Peter 5:6)
- Humility is encouraged, with a reminder that God cares for His people and will exalt them in due time. Believers are urged to cast their anxieties on God. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you."1. Living Stone (1 Peter 2:4)
- Jesus is described as a "living stone" who was rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to Him. This metaphor emphasizes His foundational role in the spiritual house of God.

2. Chosen and Precious Cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6)
- Quoting Isaiah, Peter refers to Jesus as the cornerstone, chosen and precious, upon which believers are built. This signifies His essential role in the structure and stability of the Church.

3. Stone of Stumbling and Rock of Offense (1 Peter 2:8)
- Jesus is also described as a "stone of stumbling" and a "rock of offense" for those who do not believe. This highlights the division He causes between believers and non-believers.

4. Shepherd and Overseer of Souls (1 Peter 2:25)
- Jesus is called the "Shepherd and Overseer" of souls, indicating His role in guiding, protecting, and caring for believers, much like a shepherd with his flock.

5. Suffering Servant (1 Peter 2:21-24)
- While not a direct title, Jesus is depicted as the ultimate example of suffering for righteousness' sake. He bore our sins and suffered unjustly, setting an example for believers to follow.

6. Christ (1 Peter 1:1, 1:3, 1:11, 1:19, 2:21, 3:15, 4:1, 4:13, 5:1, 5:10, 5:14)
- The term "Christ" is used throughout 1 Peter, signifying Jesus as the Messiah, the anointed one sent by God to fulfill the prophecies and bring salvation.

7. Lamb without Blemish or Spot (1 Peter 1:19)
- Jesus is likened to a sacrificial lamb, emphasizing His purity and the sacrificial nature of His death, which redeems believers from sin.

8. Lord (1 Peter 3:15)
- Peter instructs believers to revere Christ as Lord in their hearts, acknowledging His authority and divinity.

9. Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4)
- Jesus is referred to as the "Chief Shepherd," indicating His supreme authority and leadership over the Church, with a promise of reward for faithful service.1. Prophecy of the Living Stone and a Chosen People
- Reference: 1 Peter 2:6-8
- "For it stands in Scripture: 'See, I lay in Zion a stone, a chosen and precious cornerstone; and the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame.' To you who believe, then, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,' and, 'A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.' They stumble because they disobey the message—and to this they were appointed."
- Old Testament Prophecy: Isaiah 28:16, Psalm 118:22
- Fulfillment: This prophecy is seen as fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is considered the cornerstone of the Christian faith. The rejection by some and acceptance by others is reflected in the response to Jesus' ministry.

2. Prophecy of A Holy Priesthood
- Reference: 1 Peter 2:9
- "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."
- Old Testament Prophecy: Exodus 19:5-6
- Fulfillment: This is seen as fulfilled in the Christian community, which is called to be a spiritual priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices through Jesus Christ.

3. Prophecy of Suffering of Christ and Subsequent Glories
- Reference: 1 Peter 1:10-11
- "Concerning this salvation, the prophets who foretold the grace to come to you searched and investigated carefully, trying to determine the time and setting to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow."
- Old Testament Prophecy: Isaiah 53, Psalm 22
- Fulfillment: The sufferings and subsequent glorification of Christ are seen as fulfilling these prophecies, with Jesus' passion, death, and resurrection being central to Christian belief.

4. Prophecy of the Call to Holiness
- Reference: 1 Peter 1:15-16
- "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"
- Old Testament Prophecy: Leviticus 11:44-45
- Fulfillment: This call to holiness is a continuation of the Old Testament command, now applied to the followers of Christ, emphasizing a life set apart for God.

1. A Greeting from Peter  ( 1:1⁠–⁠2 )

2. A Living Hope: A Song of Praise  ( 1:3⁠–⁠12 )

3. A Call to Holiness  ( 1:13⁠–⁠21 )

4. The Enduring Word  ( 1:22⁠–⁠25 )

5. The Living Stone and Chosen People  ( 2:1⁠–⁠12 )

6. Submission to Authority  ( 2:13⁠–⁠3:7 )

a. Governments and Masters  ( 2:13⁠–⁠20 )

b. Christ’s Example of Suffering  ( 2:21⁠–⁠25 )

c. Wives and Husbands  ( 3:1⁠–⁠7 )

7. Turning from Evil  ( 3:8⁠–⁠13 )

8. Holy Living while Suffering  ( 3:14⁠–⁠4:19 )

a. Suffering for Righteousness  ( 3:14⁠–⁠22 )

b. Living for God’s Glory  ( 4:1⁠–⁠11 )

c. Suffering as Christians  ( 4:12⁠–⁠19 )

9. Instruction to Elders  ( 5:1⁠–⁠4 )

10. Cast Your Cares on Him  ( 5:5⁠–⁠9 )

11. Benediction and Farewell  ( 5:10⁠–⁠14 )