Introduction to 1st Peter

As we look at the introduction to 1^st Peter we need to look at the five “w’s” (and one “h”) of basic journalism: Who, What, Where, When, Why and How.

I Peter 1:1-9 – The glorious mercy of God

Who:

Peter is writing to the Jewish believers scattered abroad about God the Father and Jesus Christ

What:

Peter is writing firstly about the common thread that he shares with these scattered believers (“to those who are [the] elect… according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood”)

Second he is writing about the mercy shown by God to us through Jesus Christ (vv.3-5)

Third, he is writing about the sanctification of these believers through the various trials that they will face (vv.6-9)

Where:

Jews scattered abroad (see verse 1)

When:

63-64 A.D.

Why:

The why of Peter writing has been covered succinctly above, but the “why” of God showing mercy to us, and the why of us being sanctified are both the same – the glory of God. It is expressly stated in verse 7 “the genuineness of you faith- more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire – may be found to result in the praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Christ”, and it is implied throughout the passage, the fact of God glorifying himself is seen through the redeemed glorifying him, his great mercy being proclaimed and even that our salvation is eternal and guarded by his power. God’s name is magnified through our salvation and sanctification. [Throughout the book as a whole the theme of success in suffering is seen repeatedly].

How:

The goodness, love and ultimately mercy of God is how we can be redeemed and sanctified.

Apply:

The biggest application here is that we all ought to rejoice in my salvation more. The gospel is something that we often take for granted due to the familiarity of it. But beyond that to remember that my purpose is to glorify God and that is done through having a genuine faith (v.7)that can been seen through times of suffering.