1 Peter
Audience
Peter addresses scattered believers in the regions named in the opening. Their hope in Jesus' resurrection is joined to holiness, honourable conduct, and endurance in suffering; the letter does not treat suffering as proof that God has abandoned them.
Key References
Explore the Structure
Explore the structure of each book.
| Section | Focus | Connection to the whole |
|---|---|---|
| A living hope 1 Peter 1:1–12 Interpretation | Resurrection and salvation | Thanksgiving places the readers' present trials within their hope and the salvation announced to them. |
| A holy and built-together people 1 Peter 1:13–2:10 Interpretation | New birth, obedience, and identity | The hope leads into holiness, love, and the image of believers coming to Christ as living stones. |
| Honourable conduct 1 Peter 2:11–3:12 Interpretation | Life among others and within households | Peter applies the calling to public conduct, service, marriage, and the community's manner toward one another. |
| Suffering with faithfulness 1 Peter 3:13–4:19 Interpretation | Christ's example and God's judgment | The letter addresses opposition by directing believers toward Christ and toward continued doing of good under trial. |
| Shepherding and steadfastness 1 Peter 5:1–14 Interpretation | Humility, vigilance, and grace | Final instructions to elders and the church join mutual humility with watchfulness and steadfast resistance to the adversary. |
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.