1. Introduction to First Peter 1Peter 1:1-4

2. Introduction to First Peter Over the months of June, July, and August it is my goal to do a series of lessons, primarily on Sunday nights, on the epistles of Peter. Tonight, I want to present some introductory material about 1Peter.

3. Introduction to First Peter THE WRITER. The testimony of the letter itself shows that Peter wrote it (see 1Pet. 1:1). Internally, some scholars believe that the influence of the events of the Lord’s public ministry could not have been obtained any other way, therefore strongly suggesting Peter to be the author.

4. Introduction to First Peter THE RECIPIENTS OF THE LETTERS. Where did these congregations come from? 1Peter is addressed to both Jewish and Gentile converts, hence, all Christians. The following scriptures that would suggest the majority of the members of these congregations are Gentiles (1Pet. 1:14; 2:9,10; 4:3-5).

5. Introduction to First Peter WHERE IT WAS WRITTEN? See 1Pet. 5:13a. There are three possibilities… I personally favor the idea of Babylon being used metaphorically, meaning the origin of the letter was from the city of Rome.

6. Introduction to First Peter DATE OF THE WRITING. Somewhere between 62-65 A.D. Nero (54-68 A.D.) was in power. Notice the following verses that show the suffering (1Pet. 1:6,7; 3:14; 4:12,13). And their problems were going to grow worse (1Pet. 4:17-19)!

7. Introduction to First Peter THE PURPOSE AND THEME OF THE LETTER. The design or purpose of the letter is 3-fold: 1.To exhort. 2.To testify with reference to the true grace of God. 3.To encourage the saints to greater steadfastness. The theme of 1Peter is: Hope in the midst of suffering in a hostile world.

8. Introduction to First Peter INTRODUCTION TO THE LETTER (1Peter). Text: 1Pet. 1:1,2. Simon Peter the apostle. Aliens and sojourners. Chosen (the elect).

9. Introduction to First Peter As we study 1Peter we will see a people under persecution who need strength to keep going. Peter reminds them that it does not matter so much as to what happens here, it is the hereafter that is important. Peter begins his epistle by discussing the great salvation and inheritance of the saints. Christians today have the same thing! Do you?