2. 1Peter, #1- An Introduction Christians in a New Age 1Peter 1

3. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Let’s review some church history: -founded, 33 A.D. in Jerusalem -Christianity grew up in Judaism -As far a Rome was concerned, it was ignored unless there were disturbances. -Christians who did come in contact with Rome had for the most part, left a favorable impression.

4. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Further church history: -On two occasions Paul had stood on his rights as a Roman citizen and proclaimed his innocence, Acts 16:39ff; 22:24ff; 24:12. -The Church had tried to peacefully penetrate society with its message…. -and Roman had let them alone!

5. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  But, -toward the close of the sixth decade of the first century, that all began to change! -Christianity was viewed now as separate from Judaism. -Beliefs in an invisible God and risen Savior aroused suspicion & contempt. -Talk of coming judgment furthered misunderstanding and hatred.

6. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Now -rather than ignoring them, Rome takes full notice of Christianity. -Also, Rome now has a fanatical leader in Nero who is looking for a scape-goat for his political woes….. -Christianity will ultimately become exactly that to Him! -Paul’s death shows clear evidence of Rome’s changing attitude.

7. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  When Christians noticed this change toward them, several questions arose: -How will this affect us? (cf. Acts 18:2) -What are we to do? Run? Fight? -Will we be wiped out? -Would Nero’s violence trickled down t through the provinces of Rome as well?

8. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  In this climate and to reply to some of these fears, 1 & 2Peter were written. -The provinces mention in v.1 are those of northern Asia Minor in which most of the Christians live and which are closest to Rome. -The epistle is addressed to “those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout….” cf. Acts 11:19

9. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  What’s the Letter about? Preparation: -for suffering, 4:16 -for persecution, 4:12 -by knowing its coming and responding with faithful obedience and holiness, 1:13-16

10. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Introductory specifics: -Written obviously by Peter (though named Simon, note he uses the name given him by Jesus- rock ) 1:1 -apparently by the hand of Silvanus (likely Silas), 1:1 & 5:12. -Dated sometime before 68 A.D. when tradition says he was crucified upside- down at Rome.

11. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  The Text: -is both doctrinal and practical like Ephesians, but it is not so specifically divided. -It is more like Timothy in which the two are intertwined. -While it’s general theme is that of Suffering, it has a counter-theme of Grace. -It is true True Grace that Christians will be able to endure all, 5:12!

12. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  The Text- Chapter 1 Peter is also like 2Timothy in that the commanding verbs give the true picture of its message. If we’re not careful, we can be side- tracked by explanatory clauses, phrases, verses, and even paragraphs and lose sight of the real point.

13. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Chapter 1- Key Verses: >v.6 the distressing of trials will come >v.7 you will be tested by fire So, +v.2 Obey Jesus and be sprinkled with His blood, cf. Heb.10:22 +vv.3-5a Take advantage of the protective power of God afforded through faith. +vv.5b-6 Then you can rejoice in salvation!

14. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Chapter 1- Key Verses: >vv.6-7 Faith must be proven- +by obedience under trial, cf. Jas.1:12 +to be more precious than gold, cf.1Cor.3:13-15 >vv.8-9 Once defined and proven- +it results in praise, glory, & honor later +it also results in salvation

15. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Chapter 1- Key Verses: >vv.10-12 They should be motivation by their place in the history of God’s eternal plan, cf. Heb.9:26. Therefore, +gird your minds, v.13a +keep sober in spirit, v.13b +fix your hope, v.13c completely on future grace!

16. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Chapter 1- Key Verses: These things would enable them to- >not revert, v.13 (cf. Rom.12:1-2) >be holy in all their behavior like the Holy One who called them, vv.15-16 >conduct themselves in fear (not of Rome or persecution- but the Father who judges), v.17

17. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Chapter 1- Key Verses: Their knowledge would assist them- +of their redemption, v.18 +of Christ’s shed blood, v.19 +of the manifestation of God’s plan in their behalf, v.20, cf. Gal.4:4 +to produce faith & hope to overcome, v.21

18. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Chapter 1- Key Verses: Therefore they should- +fervently love one another, v.22 Because- >they had been purified by obedience, v.22a >and been born again by the living and abiding word of God, vv.23-25!

19. 1Peter, #1 An Introduction  Conclusion- What is 1Peter 1’s message? >Persecution is coming. >You must overcome with faithfulness and holiness. >You can overcome because God’s word lives and abides forever even if your physical life is taken!