Peter writes this letter to persecuted Christians in order to comfort them in the midst of their persecution. He comforts them with the reality of their salvation. In fact, in the introduction of the letter Peter starts off by calling them “elect” and speaking of the benefits of their election (I Peter 1:1, 2). He then continues by praising God for their new birth and the unfading benefits of it (1:3-5). This is not the normal way you would comfort someone who is going through a hard time. However, if these believers, and us through them, can begin to comprehend how special and great our salvation really is it will continually comfort us in the worst of situations.

 

Peter not only comforts them with the greatness of their salvation but he begins to teach them how to live and respond to persecution (1:6, 2:19-21, 4:1, 12 & 13).

 

Listen to what Peter says,

12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed (I Peter 4:12-13).

 

Finally, Peter teaches these members that their obedient and respectful responses in persecution to pagan governments, masters and even unsaved husbands could potentially lead to evangelization even in a hostile environment (2:12-15; 3:1-6; 3:15). Certainly, we have seen this throughout history. Church father Tertullian said, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Where persecution has happened and Christians have practiced the truths of First Peter great waves of evangelism has taken place. The message of First Peter has been tremendously comforting to Christian’s in Muslim and Communist societies where they are undergoing constant persecution for their faith. For them this letter has been a manual on how to live as a Christian amongst persecution. However, even in Western societies this letter is becoming even more relevant. There was a time where being a practicing Christian in society was not just tolerated but honored. However, now with the change of thinking on what marriage is, the championing of a woman’s right to abort her children and many other aspects of society persecution is constantly growing. Jesus said, “Do not be surprised if they hate you, for they hated me first.” This letter to the scattered and persecuted saints of the Roman Empire is tremendously relevant. It is a manual for pilgrims living in a hostile society. Let its words and message comfort you and prepare you for what lies ahead.