A. Introductory Questions Author Verse 1:1 claims Peter is the author however the high quality of the Greek and dating would say it is pseudonymous (HCSB p2277, Powell p481). Date Rome is referred to as Babylon, a refence that came to be after the Roman Destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE(HCSB p2277). This would date the letter 70 – 100CE (Powell p 486, HCSB p2277) and most scholars would agree to before 89CE (Powell p486). Audience “to the exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia.” (1:1, Powell p483). A circular letter intended for multiple congregations (Powell p483). Genre A “single letter” (HCSB p2279) with catechetical elements for lifting up of the readers (Powell p.483, HCSB p2279).
B. Outline Diagram with Summaries
Living Stone and Chosen People Jesus was rejected by mortals and yet is the living corner stone of our life (2:4). All believers are spiritual stones that God is making a spiritual home. (2:5-6). As living stones we are God’s chosen people, a royal nation, a people to show light to the world (2:9-10). Suffering as Blessing Do good even if it leads to suffering for in this you are blessed (3:13-14). Be ready to say why you do good, with gentleness and reverence so that your abusers will be shamed (3:15-16). For Christ suffered once and for all for all sin and was put to death and raised to life (3:18). Jesus went to the “spirits in prison” (3:19) who didn’t listen to God’s warning during the flood, which prefigures baptism, which now saves you. (3:20-22). Suffering as a “Christian” Do not be surprised when you undergo trials, but rejoice in suffering as Christ suffered (4:12-13). You are blessed for being reviled because of Jesus (4:14). Do not be disgraced for suffering as Jesus for in this God will bless you, continue to do good (4:15-19). Postscript Peter’s faithful brother Silvanus brought the letter to commend the true grace of God. The church in Rome sends its greetings. (5:12-14)
C. Interpretive Issues Suffering abuse is a theme that is ever present in 1 Peter. The text makes it clear that suffering is something all believers will go through, and those believers should endure the suffering because then that makes us more like Christ. Believers should not be intimidated by this (3:14) but should cast their anxiety to God (5:7) (Powell p489) and live in a way that shows the world a different path. As 3:9 says, “Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse; but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing. It is for this that you were called—that you might inherit a blessing” This verse helps us show the world a new way when we walk with God in suffering with Christ (Powell p489).
D. Ministerial Application Texas A&M, a place that is conservative by nature, it is very unwelcoming for those who do not fit what is normal. Normal is defined by social-political views and those views today, at A&M, are saying those in the LGBTQIA+ community are not normal and not welcome. At Treehouse we espouse to “maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.” (4:8). We seek to be the place that is always welcoming of everyone, because they are who God created and therefore, they don’t have to fit a norm. 1 Peter shows us that we will all face adversity, but if we stand fast with God, God’s love will cover our sinfulness.
aSacredRebel 