1 Peter 1: It’s Not Easy

(1-3) Peter writes this letter to Christians of both Jew and Gentile heritage because regardless of their story origin they were both A) eternally speaking- united in Christ and B) practically speaking- suffering the same difficulties!

(4-9) Peter immediately introduces what humanity cannot last without- hope. He presents thankfulness in light of the big picture of eternity and celebrates the wonderful joys that await the faithful after this time of difficulty.

(10-12) Continuing with the same themes of other apostolic writing, Peter connects the current story of faithfulness with the Old Covenant promises, letting them know that things have changed and it’s a new hope. The former one was fulfilled and so to will this one be! Their experiences mirror their Savior’s, who suffered greatly at the hands of the Romans and Jews both before being glorified.

(13-16 ) Peter makes his point regarding the approach that the believers take to their lives. They are different. They are set apart. They have purpose .They don’t wait around for nothing. They aren’t just “pushing through.” They have holy purpose, just like Jesus.

(17-21) It’s all about living (17-21) It’s all about living. The mind takes on the perspective, but the lifestyle proves it. Their holiness shines through the way they endure this hardship. Their faith is demonstrated in just how they will go about the day: living on purpose…

(22-25) With love. How do they show it’s all different for them. Love (22-25) With love. How do they show it’s all different for them? Love. How do they overcome the purposes of the enemy- seen or unseen? Loving well. They are eternal people who have nothing more to gain and nothing at all to lose. They follow a crucified savior who has defeated the only thing the world can threaten with (death). They are born of their Christ, live with their Christ, and love through their Christ.