1 Peter 1 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of 1 Peter 1

The First Epistle of Peter was written by the apostle Peter, one of the closest followers of Jesus Christ. Peter was a fisherman by trade before being called by Jesus to become a “fisher of men. Peter addresses the early Christian communities scattered throughout Asia Minor in this letter, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith despite the trials and persecutions they face.

This chapter sets the stage for the key themes that will be explored throughout the epistle. Peter reminds the believers of their new identity in Christ and the eternal inheritance that awaits them. He also prepares them for the difficult times ahead, urging them to remain hopeful and obedient to God’s will. Peter provides a powerful message of hope and resilience for the early church as we delve into this chapter.

The chapter opens with a greeting that echoes the words of the apostle Paul in his letters (1 Peter 1:1-2). Peter then launches into a beautiful doxology, praising God for the living hope and imperishable inheritance that believers have received through the resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:3-5). This sets the tone for the rest of the chapter, as Peter encourages his readers to rejoice in their salvation, even amidst the trials they may face (1 Peter 1:6-9).

1 Peter 1:1-2

1. Verse Breakdown:
   “a) Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,”
   b) “who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.”

2. Peter identifies himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ in the opening of his letter. Peter, one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus, played a significant role in the early church and is known for his boldness and leadership. Here, Peter is writing to the “elect,” those chosen by God, who are living as exiles in various regions. These regions were in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey, where early Christianity was spreading. Despite being scattered and facing persecution, Peter addresses them as chosen by God, emphasizing their special identity and purpose in Christ.

The term “exiles” could refer to the fact that believers are citizens of heaven living as strangers in this world (Philippians 3:20). This echoes the biblical theme of believers being in the world but not of it (John 17:14-16). The places mentioned represent the diverse regions where these Christians were residing, highlighting the widespread impact of the Gospel and the universal nature of the church.

b) Peter then explains the basis of their election, stating that they were chosen by God according to His foreknowledge. This teaches us about the sovereignty of God in salvation (Romans 8:29-30), highlighting that our faith is not a random occurrence but part of God’s eternal plan. The involvement of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the salvation of believers is evident here. The Father chose them, the Spirit sanctified them, and they are called to obey Jesus Christ, symbolized by being sprinkled with His blood, signifying cleansing and redemption.

The mention of “grace and peace” as Peter’s desire for them reveals his pastoral heart. Grace represents God’s unmerited favor bestowed on believers, while peace signifies the reconciliation we have with God through Christ (Ephesians 2:13-14). The abundant grace and peace Peter wishes for them speak of the deep spiritual blessings and security found in Christ. Peter sets the tone for his letter by reminding the believers of their identity in Christ, the sovereign work of God in their lives, and the richness of the spiritual blessings they have received in these verses. They are encouraged to live in obedience and faithfulness amidst trials, knowing that they are chosen and loved by God.

1 Peter 1:3-5

1. Verse Division:

2. 1 Peter 1:3-5 (NIV): “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade in his great mercy. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.”

3. Commentary:

4. “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!”: The passage begins with Peter praising God for His mercy and grace in sending Jesus to the world as our Lord and Savior. This sets the tone for the rest of the verses by acknowledging God’s role in salvation and setting the stage for what follows. Peter emphasizes the significance of God’s mercy in granting believers a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This new birth is a spiritual rebirth that comes through faith in Jesus Christ’s resurrection. The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is central to Christian faith as it validates His divinity, conquers sin and death, and offers believers the hope of eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:20-23).

5. “And into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you”: This inheritance refers to the eternal blessings and rewards promised to believers in Christ. It is a reminder that our true treasure is stored up in heaven where it is secure and imperishable, unlike earthly possessions that are temporary and subject to decay (Matthew 6:19-21). The concept of an eternal inheritance also echoes passages in the Old Testament that speak of God’s promise to be the inheritance of His people (Psalm 16:5, Psalm 73:26).

6. “Who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time”: Believers are reassured that they are shielded by God’s power through faith until the final culmination of their salvation at the return of Christ. This conveys the idea of God’s protection and preservation of His people until the ultimate fulfillment of His redemptive plan (John 10:27-29, Romans 8:38-39).

7. Peter’s words in these verses encapsulate the essence of the Christian faith – the outpouring of God’s mercy, the hope found in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the promise of an imperishable inheritance, and the assurance of God’s protection until the final redemption. It underscores the believer’s reliance on God’s power, the enduring nature of spiritual blessings, and the ultimate salvation awaiting those who place their faith in Christ. It serves as a powerful encouragement for Christians to persevere in their faith amidst trials and tribulations, knowing that their ultimate hope is secured in the unfailing promises of God.

1 Peter 1:6-9

The verse in 1 Peter 1:6-9 can be broken down into several key sections.

Firstly, let’s explore the section about rejoicing in the midst of trials. Peter addresses the idea that believers may face various trials and tribulations in their lives. Peter encourages his audience by saying, “In this you greatly rejoice,” despite these challenges…” This notion of rejoicing in the midst of trials is a powerful message for Christians. It reminds believers that even in difficult times, they can find joy and hope in their faith. This resonates with the broader biblical theme of enduring hardships with faith and finding strength in God during times of struggle.

Secondly, Peter mentions the idea of the genuineness of faith being tested by fire. The imagery of refining gold through fire is used here to illustrate how trials can refine and purify one’s faith. This concept is reminiscent of verses in the Old Testament, such as Proverbs 17:3 which states, “The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the hearts.” Just as fire purifies precious metals, trials can refine the authenticity of a believer’s faith, making it stronger and more steadfast.

Additionally, Peter speaks of the ultimate goal of faith – the salvation of souls. He emphasizes that the outcome of genuine faith tested by trials is the salvation of one’s soul. This ties back to the core message of Christianity, that salvation is achieved through faith in Jesus Christ. The concept of salvation runs throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament prophecies of a Savior to the New Testament fulfillment of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for the redemption of humanity.

Furthermore, Peter mentions the honor and glory that will come when Jesus Christ is revealed. This points to the eschatological hope that Christians hold, that one day Christ will return in glory to establish His kingdom. This belief in the second coming of Christ is foundational to the Christian faith and serves as a source of encouragement for believers to persevere in their faith despite adversity. Verses like Matthew 24:30-31 and Revelation 22:12 reaffirm the promise of Christ’s return and the reward He will bring to those who remain faithful. 1 Peter 1:6-9 offers believers a message of hope, perseverance, and ultimate salvation. It reminds Christians to find joy in the midst of trials, to allow their faith to be refined through challenges, and to look forward to the future glory that will be revealed when Christ returns. These timeless themes resonate across the entirety of the Bible, demonstrating the enduring truth and relevance of God’s word for believers in every generation.

1 Peter 1:10-12

The passage in 1 Peter 1:10-12 is divided into several key sections. The first section refers to the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to come to the believers. This emphasizes the continuity of God’s plan throughout history, where these prophets spoke under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit about the salvation that would be revealed through Jesus Christ. The prophets played a crucial role in laying the foundation for Christ’s coming, foretelling the events that would lead to the redemption of humanity.

The mention of the prophets in this passage reminds us of the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. These prophecies were fulfilled in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The prophets, such as Isaiah, Micah, and Zechariah, spoke about the suffering and glory that would come to pass through the promised Savior. Their words were not only significant for the people of their time but also for future generations, demonstrating God’s faithfulness and the coherence of His plan throughout history.

The passage then moves on to highlight how the prophets themselves longed to understand the fulfillment of their prophecies. They were aware of the significance of what they were prophesying but did not have full clarity on when and how these events would come to pass. This shows their humility and dependency on God’s timing and wisdom. Even as they were used as vessels to convey divine messages, they did not fully comprehend the depth of what God was revealing through them.

This part of the passage underscores the mystery of God’s plan being gradually unveiled over time. The prophets were given glimpses of the future, but the complete picture was only revealed through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. This emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God’s sovereignty, even when His ways seem mysterious or beyond our full understanding. It also serves as a reminder that God’s timing is perfect, and His promises will always come to fruition, even if not in the way or timeline we expect.

Finally, the passage mentions the role of the Holy Spirit in revealing these truths to the apostles and believers. The Spirit guided the apostles in understanding the full scope of God’s plan of salvation, which had been foretold by the prophets. This highlights the continuity of God’s revelation from the Old Testament to the New Testament, showing how the Holy Spirit illuminates the Word of God for believers across generations. 1 Peter 1:10-12 serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of God’s plan throughout history, from the prophecies of the Old Testament to their fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit in revealing these truths to believers. It encourages us to have faith in God’s sovereign plan, trust in His timing, and rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit as we navigate our own journeys of faith.

1 Peter 1:13-16

Peter writes in 1 Peter 1:13-16, “Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. “Do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance, as obedient children.” But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

Firstly, Peter begins by urging the believers to prepare their minds for action and to be self-controlled. This is a call to be mentally alert and focused, ready for spiritual battle against the temptations of the world. The importance of having a sober mind is stressed, indicating the need for clear thinking and sound judgment in the face of trials and challenges. This resonates with the broader biblical theme of being vigilant and watchful, as echoed in 1 Thessalonians 5:6 where Paul advises believers to be sober and self-controlled.

The next part of the passage emphasizes the believers’ transformation from their former way of life to a new life in Christ. Peter encourages them not to conform to their former ignorant and sinful desires but to live as obedient children of God. This transformation speaks to the core message of repentance and renewal found throughout the Bible. Paul similarly instructs believers in Romans 12:2 not to conform to the pattern of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds.

Peter then draws attention to the holiness of God and, by extension, the call for believers to be holy in all aspects of their lives. This call to holiness is not merely about outward behavior but about a complete devotion to God and a separation from sin. The concept of holiness is central throughout the Bible, reflecting God’s moral perfection and calling believers to reflect His character in their lives. Leviticus 11:44 also presents a similar command from God for His people to be holy because He is holy. Peter’s message in 1 Peter 1:13-16 underscores the importance of spiritual alertness, obedience to God, and striving for holiness in the lives of believers. It is a call to live differently from the world, to be transformed by the power of Christ, and to reflect God’s holiness in all that they do. Believers are encouraged to live in a manner worthy of their calling and identity as children of God, shining as lights in a dark world by aligning their minds with the hope of Christ’s return (Philippians 2:15).

1 Peter 1:17-21

1. The verse can be broken down into the following sections:
   a. “And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds…”
   b. “…conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile”
   c. “Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold…”
   d. “…but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.”
   e. “He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you”

2. Peter reminds believers in the first section (a) that God is a just judge who impartially evaluates each person’s deeds. This serves as a call for believers to live a holy and obedient life, knowing that they will ultimately be held accountable for their actions. This concept aligns with other biblical teachings that emphasize the importance of living a righteous life because God will judge everyone according to their deeds (Romans 2:6, Revelation 20:12).

3. The second section (b) urges believers to “conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile.” This phrase signifies the temporary nature of our earthly existence and emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God while we are on this earth. The term “fear” here does not imply a paralyzing dread but rather a reverent awe and respect for God, inspiring obedience and a desire to live in accordance with His will (Proverbs 1:7, Ecclesiastes 12:13).

4. Section (c) highlights the reality that believers have been ransomed from their futile ways inherited from their forefathers, not with earthly possessions like silver or gold but with the precious blood of Christ. This emphasizes the costly price that was paid for our redemption and the incomparable value of Christ’s sacrifice. Throughout the Bible, the theme of redemption through the shedding of blood runs deep, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross as the only means of salvation (Hebrews 9:12, 1 Peter 1:18-19).

5. Peter vividly describes the sacrificial nature of Christ’s death in section (d) by likening it to that of a lamb without blemish or spot. This imagery harkens back to the Old Testament sacrificial system where unblemished lambs were offered as atonement for sin. Jesus, as the perfect Lamb of God, fulfilled all the requirements for the ultimate sacrifice, providing redemption for humanity and cleansing from sin (John 1:29, Hebrews 9:14).

6. The final section (e) underscores the eternal plan of God in sending Jesus as the Lamb of God to redeem humanity. Jesus’ sacrificial death was not a spontaneous event but was part of God’s foreknown plan even before the foundation of the world. This reveals the depth of God’s love for humanity and His unwavering commitment to provide a path to salvation, manifesting in the incarnation of Jesus in the fullness of time (Galatians 4:4-5). 1 Peter 1:17-21 encapsulates essential biblical truths about God’s judgment, the believer’s call to holy living, the costly price of redemption through Christ’s blood, the sacrificial nature of Christ’s death, and the eternal plan of salvation orchestrated by God. It emphasizes the centrality of Christ’s sacrifice in the redemption of humanity and underscores the believer’s response of living in reverent awe and obedience to God.

1 Peter 1:22-25

Several important sections worth breaking down for a deeper understanding are found in 1 Peter 1:22-25. The passage begins with “Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.” Here, Peter emphasizes the importance of love and purification. He addresses the community of believers who have cleansed themselves through obedience to the truth. This truth refers to the Gospel message they have embraced, which has led to their purification from sin through faith in Christ. The idea of “sincere love for each other” highlights the genuine and selfless love that believers are called to demonstrate towards one another. This kind of love goes beyond mere words or superficial gestures; it requires a deep, heartfelt commitment to caring for and supporting fellow believers in the faith.

Peter’s exhortation to “love one another deeply, from the heart” echoes the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the commandment to love one another as He had loved them (John 13:34). This profound love among believers serves not only as a testimony to the world of their faith in Christ but also as a unifying force within the Christian community. Love is a central theme throughout the Bible, with passages like 1 Corinthians 13 elaborating on its qualities and importance in the life of a believer. Love is the essence of the Christian faith, as evidenced by Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross for the redemption of mankind (John 3:16).

The passage continues with, “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.” Here, Peter highlights the spiritual rebirth that believers experience through faith in Christ. This new birth is not a result of human effort or willpower but is a divine work facilitated by the Holy Spirit through the proclamation of the Word of God. The “living and enduring word of God” refers to the Gospel message that has the power to transform hearts and bring about salvation. This concept of spiritual rebirth is echoed in Jesus’s conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, where He emphasizes the need for a person to be born again to enter the kingdom of God.

Lastly, Peter quotes Isaiah 40:6-8 to reinforce the enduring nature of God’s Word and the transience of human life. The passage states, “For, ‘All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever.’” This comparison underscores the contrast between the temporal nature of human existence and the eternal truth of God’s Word. It serves as a reminder of the brevity of life and the lasting significance of God’s promises and principles. The Word of God stands firm and unchanging amidst the fluctuations and uncertainties of the world, providing a solid foundation for believers to anchor their lives upon. This theme of the enduring nature of God’s Word can be found throughout the Bible, with verses like Psalm 119:89-90 emphasizing the faithfulness and permanence of God’s Word. 1 Peter 1:22-25 conveys essential truths about the transforming power of love, the spiritual rebirth experienced by believers, and the enduring nature of God’s Word. It calls believers to genuine and selfless love for one another, rooted in the truth of the Gospel. It highlights the divine work of regeneration that takes place through faith in Christ and the lasting significance of God’s Word in a transient world. This passage serves as a reminder of the central role of love, faith, and God’s Word in the life of a believer, urging them to live in accordance with these timeless truths.

After 1 Peter 1

Beloved, as we reflect on the trials and sufferings we face in this world, let us remember the hope we have in Christ Jesus. Just as gold is refined by fire, our faith is tested and proven genuine through the challenges we endure. We should hold fast to our faith, knowing that He who conquered death and sin has secured our salvation.

Therefore, let us live as children of God, holy and set apart for His purposes. We should love one another earnestly, putting aside all malice and deceit. May our lives be a testimony to the grace and mercy we have received, shining the light of Christ in a world filled with darkness. We fix our eyes on the eternal inheritance that awaits us, imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, as we continue our journey of faith. Amen.