1 Peter

Author: (top)

The author of this epistle claims to be Peter the Apostle (1:1) - one who witnessed the sufferings of Christ (5:1), a claim which seems to be supported by the use of a number of expressions within the text of 1 Peter which would come naturally from one who was with Christ duing his earthly ministry (e.g. 2:20-25). Petrine authorship is denied by some, for the following reasons.

First, the Greek (which 1 Peter was originally written in) is excellent, and does not seem characteristic of Peter (cf. Acts 4:13). However, in 5:12 we see that the author of the letter wrote "with the help of" Silvannus (Silas); which most likely indicates that Silvannus "cleaned up" the Greek of the letter, thus explaining its clarity.

Second, it is said that if the author had been a witness to the sufferings of Christ, he would have included more references to Jesus Himself in the letter. However, this is merely speculation - the author mentions the sufferings of Christ when it fits well with the point he is making; why should the author include stories of Jesus' life that do not contribute to the message of his letter?

Third, the persecution referred to throughout the letter is said to imply the sort of persecution such as that which came under Domitian or Trajan (Emperors who followed the life of the apostle) and thus say that the letter could not have been written during the apostle's lifetime. Others see this as referring to the persecution which came under Nero (which did come during the apostle's lifetime, and some think led to Peter's martyrdom). However, neither of these seem to be the persecution to which the apostle refers, as there is no indication of "empire-wide" persecution - indeed the authorities are looked upon quite favourably in 2:13-17. Therefore it is entirely possible that this epistle was written during the lifetime of the apostle.

Overall, there appears to be no good reason to question the authorship of 1 Peter, as such we must remain with the Apostle Peter as the author.

Date: (top)

1 Peter was most likely written in the early 60's AD.

Outline of Message: (top)

1:1-2 Peter's introduction.
1:3-2:12 Praise to God for Christ and a general exhortation to the Christians to endure trials and suffering, living holy lives.
2:13-3:16 A call for Christians to submit to God's appointed order in authorities and relationships so that they may live in harmony with one another.
3:17-5:11 A call for Christians to endure and indeed rejoice in their sufferings for the Lord's sake, just as Christ did; and to love others sacrificially, serving as God has empowered them to do.
5:12-14 Conclusion and greetings

Outline of Content: (top)

1:1-2 Peter's introduction.

1:1-2 Peter, an apostle of Christ, to God's elect, scattered throughout the world.

1:3-2:12 Praise to God for Christ and a general exhortation to the Christians to endure trials and suffering, living holy lives.

1:3-12 Praise God for Jesus Christ and for our living hope. For this we may now suffer trials, but these have come so that your faith may ne proved genuine.
1:13-2:3 Just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all that you do.
2:4-12 As you come to Him you are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood - you are a chosen people - people belonging to God, that you may declare His praises.

2:13-3:16 A call for Christians to submit to God's appointed order in authorities and relationships in order that they may live in harmony with one another.

2:13-25 Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men, for by doing good you should silence the talk of ignorant men.
3:1-7 Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands; and husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives; all to the glory of God.
3:8-16 Live in harmony with one another, and in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.

3:17-5:11 A call for Christians to endure and indeed rejoice in their sufferings for the Lord's sake, just as Christ did; and to love others sacrificially, serving as God has empowered them to do.

3:17-4:6 It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all to bring you to God. Since Christ suffered in His body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude.
4:7-11 Love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Use whatever gift is given you to serve others through God's strength so that in all things He may be praised through Jesus Christ.
4:12-19 Do not be surprised, but rejoice, that you are participating in the sufferings of Christ.
5:1-11 To the elders among you: Be shepherds of God's flock; and to young men: Be submissive to those who are older. Be self-controlled and alert, and the God of all grace will restore you and make you strong. To Him be the glory!

5:12-14 Conclusion and greetings

5:12-14 With the help of Silas I have written to you to encourage you to stand firm in the grace of God. She who is in Babylon, and Mark, send their greetings. Peace to all of you who are in Christ Jesus.