About 1 Peter

First Peter is the sixtieth book of the Bible, written by the apostle Peter around AD 62-64, likely from Rome (referred to symbolically as Babylon), and spanning 5 chapters. Written to Gentile Christian communities scattered throughout the provinces of Asia Minor who were experiencing various forms of social hostility and persecution, First Peter is essentially a sustained theology of suffering -- explaining why Christians face opposition, what God is doing through it, and how to respond with hope and holy conduct. Major themes include the living hope of the resurrection, the believer's identity as chosen, holy, and belonging to God, holy living in the midst of a hostile world, submission to governing authorities and social structures as a form of witness, suffering as a sharing in Christ's own sufferings, and the grace of God that sustains through all adversity. Key chapters include 1 Peter 1 (born again to a living hope), 1 Peter 2 (living stones and royal priesthood), and 1 Peter 5 (humility, the devil as a prowling lion, and God's sustaining grace). Famous verses include 1 Peter 5:7 -- Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you -- and 1 Peter 2:9 -- But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession. First Peter KJV Bible reading equips believers for faithful endurance in a hostile world. Read the Book of 1 Peter online here in full.

Its vision of the church as a royal priesthood and holy nation gives persecuted readers an identity rooted in God's choosing rather than social acceptance. The letter's counsel on holy conduct under pressure pairs naturally with 2 Corinthians and Galatians.