1 Peter
1 Peter is one of the more important letters in this group of open letters. Like the Book of Revelation, 1 Peter was written primarily for the benefit of Christians who were suffering severe persecution at the hands of the Roman government. However, Revelation was addressed to the seven churches in Asia Minor because it was in that locality that emperor worship was threatening to destroy all those who refused obedience to its demands. When 1 Peter was written, this type of "fiery ordeal" had become worldwide, and Christians, wherever they might be living, were called upon in the name of the government to renounce their allegiance to Christ. Even to be called a Christian was considered sufficient grounds for condemnation. This situation did not exist prior to the reign of Emperor Domitian (81–96 A.D.) or during the last decade of the first century, which is one of the main reasons for assigning the letter to a period that came after the death of Peter the Apostle.
Although there is relatively little of a theological nature in this letter, it sets forth a very high standard of Christian living. In contrast with the Book of Revelation and all of its bitter condemnations of the Roman Empire, 1 Peter urges Christians to take a different attitude toward their suffering. The trials and afflictions that have come upon them are for the purpose of testing their faith. Christian character is not developed by living under conditions of ease and comfort. Only by meeting difficult situations and conquering them can Christians become spiritually strong, for they must be challenged in order to bring about the perfection of their character. Besides this, Christians have the example of Jesus to follow, and they should consider it a privilege to be counted worthy to suffer as Jesus did for the glory of God. To endure with patience even to the end is a goal worthy of attainment. However, Christians should be encouraged because they know that their suffering will last for only a short time; they have the hope of a glorious future, of which there will be no end.
