1 Peter was written to help Christians navigate the tensions and complexities of life in a world opposed to the Christian gospel. Faced with the onslaught of verbal and at times physical harassment, Peter writes a letter of exhortation and encouragement to Christians scattered across ancient Anatolia to help them stand in the true Grace of God. Seeking to aid these Christians navigate their faithfulness to Jesus and their friendships with one another, Peter offers a vision of God's saving grace at work in their lives. They have a new identity in Christ, a new community of sisters and brothers and a new purpose in practicing the way of Jesus. For different people in these communities, this will entail hard choices and even the willingness to stand against pagan values. Peter gives them a vision of Jesus, and walking in his footsteps, that will encourage and empower them to live lives characterized by holiness and honor.
