Peter’s first letter is addressed to the many Chris­tian groups living in the Roman provinces which covered most of the area we now know as modern-day Turkey. The elegant Greek of 1 Peter is probably due to the help Peter received from Silvanus who is mentioned in the very last chapter.

1 Peter was probably written from Rome (5:13) sometime after the outbreak of Nero’s persecu­tions (around A.D. 65 or 66). At such a time of trial this encouraging letter was just what the scattered Christians needed.

Peter reminds them that they won’t always have to suffer. And they can experience joy even now as they look forward to the wonderful day when Jesus will re­turn.

In the meantime:

• They are to live godly lives (4:2)
• Show proper respect for everyone (2:17)
• And get along with each other (3:8) in Christian love.

Near the close of his letter Peter says: “But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 5:10, 11).