1&2 Peter.
Among the twelve disciples, Jesus had His favorites—Peter, James, and John. Of the three, only one didn’t pick up a feather to write(which one?). Peter, the loudest and most impulsive of the trio, takes center stage in this two letters.
Peter wasn’t just famous; he was a legendary. Tradition paints him as a big man, physically imposing and emotionally dramatic. He started off as Simon (a reed swaying in the wind), but Jesus renamed him Peter (a rock)—a fitting name for the man who would later lead the disciples. Fun fact: his leadership appointment came during a casual breakfast meeting where Jesus was the Chef. His qualification? Not theological degrees, zero leadership awards—just a simple but heartfelt answer to the question: "Do you love me?" Three times, Peter said yes, and three times, Jesus confirmed his role. Talk about a redemptive act!🫶🏽
Now, this rock of a man is the author of the letter you’re about to dive into. And who is his audience? The chosen genes, the priestly gang, the holy squad, and the unique ones (1 Peter 2:9). In other words, YOU AND ME—believers called out of darkness into God’s marvelous light.🫡
Peter writes to Christians facing persecution, encouraging them to stay grounded:
- "Gird up your loins!" ("roll up your sleeves!")
- "Be sober!" (Stay focused, people!)🍻
- "Hold on to hope!" (Remember the fire you felt when you first believed.)❤️🔥
He reminds them (and us) that the endgame of faith isn’t just survival; it’s the salvation of our souls (1 Peter 1:9).
Peter dives into three big themes:
1. Salvation: It’s both personal (you will be saved) and corporate (we will be saved).
2. Suffering: It’s undeserved, shouldn’t be avenged, and while it may hurt the body, it can’t touch the soul.💪🏽
3. Submission: This touches on everyone—citizens, servants, spouses, and even the young.
Peter didn’t just write these things; he lived them. His life and death were a testimony to his faith. He died like Jesus—on a cross—but insisted on being crucified upside down, saying he wasn’t worthy to die the same way as his Lord. Through it all, he never denied Jesus the fourth time. He never wanted to plead the fifth. He lived hopeful, faithful, and fearless to the end.
So, as you read Peter’s letter, let his words remind you: it’s not about perfection but perseverance. After all, if God could turn a loud, impulsive businessman into a pillar of the Church, what can’t He do with us?
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