1 Peter
The believers are greeted as the elect of the dispersion, having been regenerated into a living hope through Jesus Christ's resurrection, and they have an incorruptible inheritance reserved in heaven. They are exhorted to be holy, to love one another, and to live good lives among the Gentiles, being subject to authority and honoring everyone. Believers are called to be a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation, announcing God's virtues and following Christ's example of suffering injustice. They are also instructed on how to live their lives, including the roles of wives and husbands, and how to respond to evil and suffering, repaying it with blessings and being prepared to give an explanation for their hope in Christ. Additionally, believers are encouraged to arm themselves with the intention of suffering in the flesh, to live according to God's will, and to glorify God in their suffering, while also being mindful of their roles and responsibilities within the church, including the duties of elders and the submission of young people.
Chapter 1
Peter greets the elect of the dispersion, stating they have been regenerated into a living hope through Jesus Christ's resurrection, and they have an incorruptible inheritance reserved in heaven. They are to exult in their trials, as their faith is being tested and refined like gold by fire, and they will be found in praise and glory at Jesus' revelation. The prophets inquired about the future grace in the believers, and it was revealed to them that they were ministering to the believers through the Holy Spirit. Peter exhorts the believers to be holy, as they have been redeemed by Christ's precious blood, and to love one another from a simple heart.
Chapter 2
Believers should set aside malice and deceit, and instead desire spiritual nourishment, approaching Jesus as a living stone and building their lives upon him. Those who believe in Jesus will not be confounded, but to those who do not believe, he is a stone of offense. Believers are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation, called to announce God's virtues and live good lives among the Gentiles. They should be subject to authority, honor everyone, and love brotherhood, even if it means enduring sorrows and suffering injustice, as Christ did, who left an example for believers to follow.
Chapter 3
Wives should be subject to their husbands and demonstrate their faith through their behavior, rather than outward adornments. Husbands should live with their wives in understanding and honor them as co-heirs of eternal life. Believers should strive to be of one mind, compassionate, and loving, repaying evil with blessings. Those who suffer for doing good are blessed, and they should be prepared to give an explanation for their hope in Christ with meekness and fear.
Chapter 4
Christians should arm themselves with the intention of suffering in the flesh, as Christ did, to live according to God's will and not by human desires. They should not indulge in sinful behaviors like the Gentiles, but instead live a life of love, hospitality, and service to one another. Believers should not be ashamed to suffer for being a Christian, but rather glorify God in that name, and commend their souls to the faithful Creator through good deeds.
Chapter 5
Elders are to pastor God's flock willingly and not for personal gain, but rather to serve and care for them. Young people are to submit to the elders and humble themselves before God, who resists the arrogant but gives grace to the humble. Believers are to cast their cares on God and be vigilant against the devil, resisting him through faith. After a brief time of suffering, God will perfect, confirm, and establish believers in his eternal glory.
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