The Book of 1ST PETER

It was written by the apostle Simon Peter around 60 A.D. He wrote to the born again Christians during his time, most of which were Jews. Many believe that the epistle of 1^st Peter is written only to Jews, and applies only to the tribulation. They say that Peter only preached to Jews, and Paul only preached to Gentiles. But, this won’t fit for several reasons.

First, Peter and Paul preached to both Jews and Gentiles. Peter was a contemporary of Paul, and in Acts chapter 15, they met each other in Jerusalem. Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles (Rom. 11:13), but his manner was to preach to the Jews first wherever he went (Acts 17:1,2).

Peter’s ministry was to Jews and Gentiles also. Peter preached to Jews in Acts 10. Peter also preached to Cornelius and his family, who were Gentiles, and the Lord saved them.

Secondly, Peter is clearly addressing born again Christians. In 4:16, he writes “If any man suffer as a Christian.” It doesn’t say if any man suffer as a Jew in the tribulation. Peter also uses the term, “born again” in 1:23. And, Jews aren’t born again in the tribulation. They must “endure to the end” (Matt. 24:13).

So, the Book of 1^st Peter is historically written in the Church Age to Christians, but some of the verses can and do have a double application, and can be applied to both Christians in the church age and Jews in the tribulation.

When reading the Bible, always remember that every verse can have three applications:

Peter and the rest of the saved Jews and Gentiles at this time are looking for the immediate return of Jesus Christ (2nd Advent), and expect him back at any time to set up the Millennial Kingdom of Heaven. They didn’t know about the rapture of the church until they read it in Paul’s writings. (See what Peter says about Paul’s writings in 2 Peter 3:15,16). So, when Peter writes, he writes as a Jew who is looking for the prompt return of Jesus Christ at the 2nd Advent, just as the Jews in the tribulation will be looking for their Messiah.

The theme of 1st Peter is “The suffering of a Christian.” The term Christian means Christ like. A saved person in the Church age is called a Christian because his has Christ’s righteousness imputed to him when he gets born again. A Jew in the tribulation that follows Christ could be called a Christian in the sense that he to will have to suffer for Christ to be like him.

Now, we are ready for a verse by verse exposition of the First Epistle of Simon Peter.

1 Peter 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithnia.

Notice how Peter starts out his epistle. “Peter” in Greek means “a rock.” So, Peter boldly proclaims, “I am a rock and an apostle.” Now, contrast this with 2nd Peter 1:1 and you’ll see a change in Peter’s character.

All of which are Gentile territories. So, the “strangers” is a reference to Gentiles scattered abroad. But you could also apply it to Jews in the tribulation, who are strangers to Israel, because they are scattered abroad.

1 Peter 1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

Right away we seem to have a mess on our hands if the Holy Spirit doesn’t guide and lead us into all truth (John 16:13).

Notice, the word elect in this passage. This does not apply to those predestinated to be saved, as John Calvin and those who follow him, called Calvinists, would have you believe. No, the antecedent is Peter. Peter is one of the elect. How did he become one of the elect? By faith (Titus 1:1).

Calvin believed that election is not conditional, and that God just eternally decreed some to be saved--or elected, and some to be lost. But, according to this verse, election is conditioned on the foreknowledge of God...

Somewhere out in eternity past, God determined a plan to save mankind by dying for their sins. And that whosoever will trust in Him will be saved (Rom. 10:13, Rev. 22:17), that’s the foreknowledge of God!!! That’s not all, man has the freewill to either choose or reject the free gift of salvation that God offers. A man that trusts in Christ’s shed blood and righteousness is then declared to be one of the elect! After a man is born again in the Church Age, he is in the elect, and a part of the body of Christ. He is then predestinated to be conformed to God’s image, according to Romans 8:29.

1 Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

This verse undoubtedly is written to a Church age saint. “Begotten us again” is a reference to the new birth. See John 3:3-7.

The “lively hope” also called the “blessed hope” in Titus 2:13, refers to the rapture, when born again Christians in the Church age will be called out.

1 Corinthians 1:3 is a cross reference (written by Paul) which says: “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.”

1 Peter 1:4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

This is a reference to the Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Cor. 5:10). A saved, born again Christian will receive an inheritance (Col. 3:23-25) for what he did for Jesus Christ after he was saved. 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 explains this.

1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

To a Christian in the Church age, this is an excellent verse on eternal security. A man is saved by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8,9) and is kept or sealed (Eph. 4:30) unto the last time (the day of redemption).

First, it applies to the salvation of the soul. When a man or woman is born again in the Church age, their soul is saved (James 1:21). So, according to this verse, if you are saved, your soul is kept by the power of God.

Secondly, the “unto salvation” refers to the salvation of the body (Romans 8:23). All men are born with a body, soul, and spirit according to 1 Thess. 5:23. An unsaved man has a live body and a live soul, but his spirit is dead. Thus, he is 2/3 of a man, or in fractional form, .666.

When a man is born again, his soul is circumcised from his flesh (Col. 2:11), is melded with God’s Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:30), to form a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17). But, he still has a sinful nature which he is to reckon dead (Rom. 6:11). He is still 2/3 of a man who is waiting for the “salvation” of his body at the rapture (1 Cor. 15:50-56) so he can be made complete. When Christ comes, the Christian gets a glorified body like Christ (1 John 3:2). But, until then, a born again Christian has a saved soul, and a live spirit (the Holy Spirit), but a dead body with a sinful nature.

1 Peter 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:

Here Peter says that they rejoice “greatly.” A Christian should always rejoice in the fact that his soul is kept by the power of God (vs5). Paul instructs us in 1 Thess. 5:16. to “Rejoice evermore”

Notice also where he says, “For a season.” The reference for this is 1 Thess. 5:1,2. Paul writes, “but of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write...for yourselves know... that the day of the Lord cometh as a thief in the night.” Peter is expecting Jesus Christ to return any minute, as is evident from what he says at the end of the next verse.

1 Peter 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

The “trial of your faith” is a reference to tests and trials that God will allow you to go through, like Abraham was tested with his son (Gen. 22).

Spiritually, this verse is a reference to the Judgment Seat of Christ. In 1 Cor. 3:11-15, a Christian’s works are likened unto 6 things: “gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay and stubble.”

Gold, Silver, and Precious stones are things that are done for Jesus that will abide the fire; and the wood, hay and stubble are things done for the flesh which will burn up.

“Gold” in the Bible usually represents deity, but it also is likened unto faith. In Rev. 3:18, God counsels the fleshly church of Laodicea (that walks by sight and not by faith) to buy of him “gold tried in the fire,” (i.e. faith!!!)

The “silver” represents your witness (or witnessing) for Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament tabernacle, the sixty pillars around the outer court were made of silver. They were a witness of what was inside -- The Holy of Holies, or God.

Silver is also the price of Redemption. Exodus 30:12-16 shows they were to give shekels for atonement money as a ransom, and Leviticus 27:3-7 tells us that these shekels were made of silver. Eph. 5:16 and Col. 4:5 tell us that we should redeem our time. How? By witnessing for Jesus Christ. A born again saint will be rewarded at the Judgment Seat for every thing he did for Jesus Christ down here.

The “precious stones” would be the souls you won for Jesus Christ. Zechariah 9:16 likens people unto stones when it says, “And the Lord their God shall save them in that day... for they shall be as the stones of a crown...” One old hymn asks, “Will there be any stones in your crown?”

The wood, hay, and stubble are dead works that you did for yourself and they will burn up.

The “appearing of Jesus Christ” to a Christian would be the rapture. To a Jew in the tribulation, it would apply to the 2nd Advent.

1 Peter 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

The “whom” refers to Jesus Christ in the last verse. We as Christians today have never seen Jesus Christ physically. Paul said in 2 Corinthians 5:7, “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” And, God demands faith. Hebrews 11:6 says, “Without faith, it is impossible to please him...”

1 Peter 1:9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

As afore mentioned in 1:5, there are two kinds of salvation for a Christian in the church age.

Peter tells us that "the end of your faith,” is the salvation of your soul spiritually, which you have now, if you are saved. But, the physical salvation of the body comes later, at the rapture.

1 Peter 1:10 Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:

This verse tells us that the prophets searched diligently (or studied 2 Tim. 2:15) the Old Testament scriptures to try to understand what was written about the Messiah.

1 Peter 1:11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.

Notice that according to this verse, the “Spirit of Christ” is in the Old Testament saint. But, they were not immediately sealed for all eternally with the Holy spirit as a New Testament believer is today (Eph. 4:30). In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit came and could depart. David for example, in Psalms 51:10 prayed to God, “take not thy Holy Spirit from me.”

But, if the old Testament saint died in the faith, he went to Abraham's bosom, awaiting to be redeemed by Jesus at the Cross.

The “sufferings of Christ” shows that they prophesied of Christ’s coming to die for sins (1st Advent) and “the glory that should follow” refers to Christ’s glory (2nd Advent).

1 Peter 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.

The “us” refers to Peter, James, John, Philip, and the rest of the apostles. It also refers to Christians. What is interesting to note is that according to this verse, the angels envy the opportunity that we have to study the Bible and learn more about the scriptures.

1 Peter 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

“Gird up the loins of your mind” is good illustration of a figurative passage.

“The Revelation of Jesus Christ” can apply to the book of Revelation found at the end of the New Testament, and it can apply to what Jesus Christ reveals to us. It can also apply to the rapture and 2nd Coming.

1 Peter 1:14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:

God likes obedience. If everyone in the world today obeyed God, we would not have any problems. 1 Sam. 15:22 says, “... to obey is better than sacrifice...” God wants obedience. But with our sinful nature, it is hard to always obey. God knew this, so he provided a sacrifice, which was Christ Jesus, to die for our sins. He walked 33 years on this earth in total obedience to the Father. He was the only man ever to live a sinless life. Philippians 2:8 tells us, “he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of he cross.” That sacrifice of a sinless man took care of our disobedience (1 Peter 3:18), when we believe on him (Acts 16:30,31).

1 Peter 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

“Conversation” here probably means action or lifestyle. Ref. 1 Peter 3:2.

1 Peter 1:17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:

In this verse, Peter says that God the Father “[is no] respect[er] of persons” which is almost the exact wording of what he says in Acts 10:34.

Then he commands to “pass the time...here in fear.” The fear probably refers to the fear of the Lord, because in Acts 9:31 we find Christians walking in the fear of the Lord, as they pass the time. Fear of the Lord is a good thing, because, according to the Bible, it is the beginning of wisdom (Ps. 111:10), and the beginning of knowledge (Prov. 1:7).

1 Peter 1:18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;

1 Peter 1:19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

God demands blood for sin (See Lev. 17:11 and Hebrews 9:22). In the Old Testament, God demanded the blood of an animal, usually a lamb, as a type of Jesus on the cross.

When Jesus Christ came to this earth John the Baptist said in John 1:29, “Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world” And in the Church age, our “redemption” (vs 18) is in the blood of that lamb of God (Col. 1:14, Eph. 1:7)

“Precious” means valuable. The blood of God (Acts 20:28) is valuable for many reasons:

The word “spot” is found twenty five times in the Bible, and is connected with the mark of the Beast.

The Church is said to not have any spot according to Ephesians 5:26,27. In 2 Peter 2:13 spots and blemishes refers to unsaved people. Jude verse 23 talks about a garment spotted by the flesh. Also, Leprosy is connected with spots in Leviticus 13:14. And, the mark of the Beast is connected with a sore (or spot) in Rev. 16:2

1 Peter 1:20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,

“Last times” applies to the first coming (Jesus was God manifest in the flesh), and also applies to the 2nd coming (when Jesus returns after the tribulation).

1 Peter 1:21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

The third word “Him” refers back to “the lamb” in vs. 19, which is Jesus Christ, according to John 1:29.

God “raised him up” (1 Cor. 15:4, 2 Cor. 5;15) and gave him “glory.” Christ has glory now (present tense) in heaven. But, he will also receive glory later at the 2nd Coming in his millennial kingdom on this earth.

1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:

1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

This verse tells how a man is born again. It’s “by the word of God.” James 1:21 says, it’s the word of God “which is able to save your souls.” Romans 10:17 further states that “faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” Salvation is by faith. But, it is faith in what God says (his words).

The “born again” is not a reference to a physical birth, but of a spiritual birth (John 3:4-8). When a man is born physically, he is born of “corruptible seed” because he gets his blood from his father which comes from Adam. Thus, he is a man with a sinful nature and therefore spiritually dead. But, when a man is born again by faith, he is born again spiritually by a living book. Jesus said that his words are “spirit and...life” (John 6:63). So, you see how important the Bible is. Lester Roloff used to call the Bible his “spiritual Momma,” because it begat him spiritually unto life eternal.

1 Peter 1:24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:

In this verse, God likens flesh to grass. Grass comes from a seed (vs 23). But, without proper care, grass will die. Grass needs sunlight and water to survive. To a Christian, the Bible is “a light” (Psalm 119:105) and “water” (Eph. 5:26).

Also, this verse likens “the glory of man” unto a flower. There are some flowers that are very beautiful, but they usually only bloom at certain times and don’t last very long. It is the same with man’s glory. A man might be popular or well respected, but his popularity won’t last long. But, God’s glory will last forever (Psalm 104:34).

1 Peter 1:25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

Notice that the verse says “word” with a small “w”. The small “w” always refers to the word of God, the Bible, and the words which Jesus spoke, whereas the capital “W” always refers to Jesus Christ.

See John 1:1 in a King James Bible. The word and the Word are much alike, as seen below. Both are:

	the Word (Christ)	the word (Bible)
Word of Life	John 1:1	Phil 2:16
Holy	Heb. 7:26	Rom. 1:2
Judge	Jn. 5:26,27	Jn. 12:48,49
Truth	Jn. 14:6	John 17:17
Incorruptible	Acts 2:27	1 Peter 1:23
Eternal	John 1:1	Ps. 119:160
Everlasting	Rev. 1:18	1 Peter 1:23
Sanctifying	Heb. 10:10	John 17:17

1 Peter 2:1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,

“Malice” is a desire to harm another, “guile” is trickery, and “hypocrisy” means putting on an act.

1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

“As newborn babes” means as those that have just received the new birth or have been born again. There are 7 stages of growth for a Christian found in the Bible. They are listed below with their references:

Just as a physical human must have nourishment to grow, so must the spiritual new creature be nourished by the word of God. There are 7 different foods in the Bible that the word of God is likened unto for spiritual growth. They are as follows:

1. Water	Prov. 25:25
2. Milk	1 Peter 2:2
3. Bread	Luke 4:4
4. Apples	Prov. 7:2
5. Honey	Psalm 19:10
6. Meat	Hebrews 13:9
7. Strong Meat	Hebrews 5:1

Notice that it is conditional: “If...ye have tasted...” Psalm 34:8 begs, “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”

There is a correlation between believing or trusting Christ by faith, and tasting or eating him. Romans 14:22,23 ties eating and faith together. Also, in John chapter 6, Jesus tells those present that they must eat and drink his flesh and blood to get eternal life (vs 56). Religionists take this literally, and believe that they are really eating the body and blood of Jesus Christ. But, they are Cannibals. No, it is a spiritual application. Christ is using a simile or metaphor, to liken eating Christ to believing in Christ.

When you eat something physically, you receive it inside you (specifically inside your belly). In the Church age, when you accept Jesus Christ by faith in his blood, you receive him spiritually inside your heart according to Ephesians 3:17.

1 Peter 2:4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,

1 Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

Now we get to some heavy stuff ! The Bible likens us (Christians) unto “lively stones” and says we are “built up a spiritual house.”

Ephesians 2:19-22 tells us, “...ye are...of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord; In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the spirit.”

Notice that according to Paul, a Christian is builded into a holy temple. It gets even wilder. In Rev. 3:12 we read, “Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him...the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem...” Somebody is going to made a pillar in New Jerusalem.

That’s not all, in Revelation 21:2 John says, “And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” The city of New Jerusalem is likened unto a bride (the Bride of Christ). And, in Galatians 4:26 Paul tells us that New Jerusalem is the mother of us all.

So, somehow, when a born again Christian gets to heaven he will become part of New Jerusalem, spiritually speaking, but still have a glorified body and be like Christ (1 John 3:2) .

Now you are probably thinking, “That’s the stupidest thing I have ever heard, that a person (a Christian) could turn into a stone, spiritually speaking, and become part of a building.” But, it is even more stupid for a college educated, narrow-minded bigot to believe that humans came from rocks (i.e. what Darwinism and Evolution teaches in every public school system in America).

1 Peter 2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

This passage is talking of Jesus Christ. According to vs 4-8, Christ is: A living stone, a chosen stone, a chief stone, an elect stone, a precious stone, a head stone, a corner stone, and a stumblingstone.

1 Peter 2:7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,

“You therefore which believe” is a reference to Christians. The “disobedient” are those who reject Jesus Christ (unsaved).

Now, we get to another verse that has some heavy stuff in it. Notice that Christ is called “the head of the corner.” And that is where Christ is in relation to the universe.

The Bible suggests that the universe is in the shape of a pyramid, with Jesus Christ at the head as the chief corner stone, or capstone.

In Isaiah 14:13,14 Lucifer (Satan) said, “I will ascend into the heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north.

A pyramid is the only shape, or structure, that has sides that ascend straight up it.

Capstone

Cornerstone

Jesus Christ

Sides of the North

(The Universe)

Also notice in Ezekiel 28:14, when God is talking to the Devil, he says, “thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire.” Here heaven is likened unto a mountain. A mountain has a pyramidal shape, just as the universe is in the shape of a pyramid.

1 Peter 2:6 says the “corner stone” (Jesus Christ) is laid in “Sion” or Zion, which is another name for Mt. Sinai. The earthly Mount Sinai is a type of Mt. Sion in heaven (Heb. 12:22, Rev. 14:1). Now, look at Mt. Sinai on any map and it is found at the head of a triangle or pyramidal land mass called the Sinai Peninsula. Pure coincidence you might say. But, wait there’s more.

When Jesus came to this earth, he wore a garment that was a picture of the universe. It was a “coat ...woven from the top throughout” (John 19:23,24). It had no seams. It was what we call a poncho, a long round garment with a hole in the center. The wearer puts his head through the hole in the center, and drops the garment down around him. It looked something like this:

The Bible tells us in Psalms 102:25,26 that the heavens (inside the universe) shall “...wax old like a garment, as a vesture shalt thou [God] change them, and they shall be changed.” Hebrews 1:11,12 tells us the same thing, but mentions that Christ will “fold them up” afterwards.

So, what you have is a picture of the universe in the garment that Jesus Christ wore during his earthly ministry. It was a pyramidal or cone shape with a hole in the top for the “Head” corner stone - Jesus Christ (Eph.4:15). This garment is also found in type in the Old Testament in the Priests robes. See Deut. 22:12.

1 Peter 2:8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

The reference for this “stone of stumbling” is found in Matt. 21:42-44. Whosoever falls on this stone shall be broken, which is a picture of salvation by humbling yourself before Christ. And on whomsoever it will fall, it will grind him to powder, which is a picture of the 2nd Advent when Jesus Christ comes back and destroys the Kingdoms of this world and the unfaithful servants who rejected Him and took the mark of the beast. This is the stone mentioned in Daniel2:34,43-45.

Also, notice in this verse that Christ is called a “rock of offence.” Now, there is a certain Church which is founded on Matt. 16:18, and says the rock is Peter, which they claim is their first Pope by the way. However, this is a horrendous lie. According to the Bible, the Rock is Christ. Peter tells us so in this verse and Paul tells it to us in I Cor. 10:4. Christ is the Rock!!!

Not only does Peter tell us that Christ is a rock, but adds that Christ is a rock of “offence.” Jesus Christ was an outrageous offence to the Jewish people. And, he still is today. See Romans 9:32,33.

1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

A distinction should be made here. Israel and the church are not the same. Israel is never called a “chosen generation.” They are however called a “chosen people.” The references are Deut. 7:6, Psalm 33:12, Isa. 42:20, and Daniel 11:15. This “chosen generation” are the saved gentiles in the body of Christ. See Romans 9:25,26.

Israel is also never called a “royal priesthood” in the Bible. As a matter of fact, Exodus 19:6 calls them a “kingdom of priests,” specifically the Levites.

Born again Christians in the Church Age are priests spiritually. Rev. 1:6 says, “And hath made us [Christians] kings and priests unto God.” A born again Christian has no reason to go to church and confess his sins to a black robed Baalite priest, with a whited sepulchre on his throat. Every Christian saved by grace through faith is a priest. We confess our sins directly to God (1 John 1:9). And, we have an advocate with the father named Jesus Christ (1 John 2:1), not some drunk, celibate, priest who trys to get you to drink wine on Sunday and abstain from meat on Friday. Amen! There is something wrong with a man who will preach against getting married anyway!!! Well, for those of you still reading I’ll move on.

Not only is the body of Christ a royal priesthood, they are also a “holy nation.” Here the church matches Israel. Israel is a “holy nation” according to Exodus 19:6. But, they do not match on the fourth point.

The church is called a “peculiar people.” But, in Exodus 19:5, Israel is called a “peculiar treasure.” They are not the same. Israel is not the church, and the church is not Israel. So, Peter is writing this to Christians in the Church age.

1 Peter 2:10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

Who in times past were not a people? Why the Gentiles of course. When the Jews rejected their Messiah, Jesus Christ, then God took salvation to the Gentiles.

1 Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;

The “dearly beloved” is a reference to Christians. Notice that Peter calls them two things: “Strangers and Pilgrims.”

A born again Christian is a stranger in this world, because it is not his home, his home is heaven. He is also a pilgrim because he is on a journey or pilgrimage to heaven. An old hymn says, “This world is not my home, I’m just a passing through, my treasures are laid up, somewhere beyond the blue. The angels beckon me from heaven’s open door, and I can’t feel at home in this world any more.”

Also look at the word “war.” The Christian life is not easy, it is warfare (2 Cor. 10:4). Paul says at the end of his Christian life in 2 Timothy 4:7 that he had “fought a good fight.” Paul also exhorts us in 2 Timothy 2:3 to “endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”

The Christian life is an all out war! And, It’s a war against the flesh (Rom. 7:23) and against spiritual wickedness (Eph. 6:12). So, “put on the whole armour of God” (Eph. 6) and “Fight the good fight” (1 Timothy 6:12).

1 Peter 2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

“Having your conversation honest” is a participle in conjunction with vs 11. It is a command to have your conversation honest while you are warring against the flesh.

The word “conversation” has two applications in the Bible. It can mean your speech as in Phil. 3:20. But, the majority of the time, it means your lifestyle or how you live from day to day. See how Peter uses it in 1 Peter 3:2,16, and 2 Peter 3:11.

Paul also uses this word in the same way. In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul commands to be an example in word (speech) and in conversation (daily manner of life). Some other references are: Gal. 1:13, Eph. 2:3, 4:22, Heb. 13:5, 13:7, and James 3:13.

“The day of visitation” is a reference to the day of the Lord (Zeph. 1:7,2:7), or the 2nd Advent.

1 Peter 2:13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;

Peter tells us to “submit” ourselves to “every ordinance (or law) of man.” But, before this in Acts 5:29, Peter says, “We ought to obey God rather than man.” It almost appears that Peter has contradicted himself. But Peter said that because in Acts 5:28, the priest told him not to teach in the name of Jesus. However, God commands all Christians to “preach the word” (2Tim. 4:2).

So, a Christian is to obey the laws of the government that he is under because, “the powers that be are ordained of God,” (Rom. 13:1), except when those laws go against the word of God.

He finishes by saying, “for the Lord’s sake.” In other words, for a good testimony to the unsaved world, keep the laws of the land. Paul says, “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers” (Rom. 13:1). See also the whole chapter of Romans 13.

1 Peter 2:14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.

This is a continuation of verse 13. Peter asks Christians to submit to Kings (vs 13), and Governors (vs 14).

1 Peter 2:15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:

It is the will of God that you submit to higher authority and do right (well). Christians are commanded in Ephesians 5:17 to “...Be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” Romans 12:2 also tells to prove what is the “good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

1 Peter 2:16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.

The word “free” is a reference to those that are not slaves (contrast with vs 18). A man might not be a physical slave to a master on earth, but each Christian should be a servant of God. Paul opens his epistles of Romans and Galatians by calling himself “a servant of God.” So do James and Jude.

1 Peter 2:17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

In this verse we find four commands to a Christian. It is suggested that there are 1,050 commands in the New Testament for Christians to keep. Following these commandments will not save, or keep a Christian saved, because Eph. 2:8,9 clearly states, “for by grace are ye saved through faith...not of works lest any man should boast.” But, they are given to a Christian to help him in his Christian life.

Also notice where Peter says, “Honour the king.” The king at that time was Nero, a maniac murderer that killed Christians left and right (Read Fox’s Book of Martyrs). Thus, you are to honor those that have rule over you because they are ordained of God (See comments on 2:13), even when they are out to get you.

1 Peter 2:18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.

This is a command to saved slaves or servants to be in subjection to their masters, whether they are good or bad. Paul also writes this in Eph. 6:5-8 and Col. 3:22-25.

1 Peter 2:19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.

From this verse to the end of the chapter Peter discusses, “Suffering.” Remember, as before mentioned in the introduction, that this is the theme of 1^stPeter. And, Peter uses Christ as the example for suffering.

In this verse, Peter is saying that you should suffer if you are wrongfully accused. There two reasons for this:

It is better to have the whole world think you are guilty of something and in reality be innocent, than to have them think that you are innocent, when you are really guilty. An old saying is, “A good conscience will sleep in a thunderstorm.”

1 Peter 2:20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.

1 Peter 3:17, “For it is better...that ye suffer for well doing than for evil doing.”

1 Peter 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

Every Christian is called to suffer. 2 Tim. 3:12 states, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”

This verse says that Jesus Christ was a sinless man. He was the only sinless man that ever walked the face of this earth. But, he was also God manifest in the flesh (1 Tim. 3:16). Christ had two natures:

Christ showed his Human Nature on the Cross when he said, “I thirst” (John 19:28). And, Christ’s Divine nature is evident from his miracles and the fact that he was God manifest in the flesh.

1 Peter 2:23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:

Jesus committed himself to God the Father, and submitted himself to be judged for the sin of mankind. And, God always judges “righteously.”

1 Peter 2:24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

Jesus Christ not only bare our sins, but according to 2 Corinthians 5:21, “he became sin for us.” And, when he did so, God the Father poured out all his wrath upon sin on his son Jesus Christ. Thus, Jesus Christ became the sacrificial blood atonement for the sins of mankind.

1 Peter 2:25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

Jesus Christ is the “Shepherd” according to Hebrews 13:20. And, we are the sheep according to John chapter 10. This is something that Peter will never forget because Christ tells him three times in John chapter 21 to “feed his sheep.”

This verse also states that Jesus Christ is the “Bishop” of our souls. And, there is a certain church that calls some of its hierarchy an Arch Bishop. Thus, they are trying to say that they are higher than Jesus Christ. This is the same bunch that calls their head honcho “Holy Father,” when that is God’s title in John 17:11. Matthew 23:9 even tells us not to call any religious man on earth our “Father.”

Someone just wants to draw attention to themselves and steal God’s title for worship. Their father is found in John 8:44.

1 Peter 3:1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;

In the New Testament, the first admonition is always to the woman. See also Eph. 5:22 and Col. 3:18. There is a reason for this. It is because women are the weaker vessel (1 Peter 3:7) and thereby easily deceived. 1 Tim. 2:17 verifies this when it states, “Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.”

Women are supposed to be in subjection to their husbands for several reasons. First, so that the man can teach her, and keep her from being deceived. 1 Cor. 14:35 says, “And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home.” Of course, this is between a saved couple.

Secondly, wives are to be in subjection to their husbands “that the word of God be not blasphemed.” (Titus 2:5). God created woman for man (1 Cor. 11:8,9) to be his help meet (Gen. 2:18), and when she doesn’t do that, she goes against God’s will in her life, and rebels against God’s word.

And, finally, saved wives are a type of the Bride of Christ according to Ephesians 5. As such, they have a tremendous responsibility. They are to be an example to their husbands on how to love and treat Jesus Christ. They are also to teach their children how to love Jesus Christ. And, they are supposed to obey their husbands who in turn are supposed to be a type of Christ. Now, if every saved, born again, married couple would keep that in mind, they would have a wonderful marriage.

This verse is an exhortation to the wives to have a good testimony for Christ’s sake.

“Conversation” here could have a double application. It could be your speech, or it could refer to your daily living (see comments on 1 Peter 1:15) . The context of the next verse would seem to point to the latter.

1 Peter 3:3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

Now Peter has gone to meddling. He is trying to tell women how to dress. Paul also steps on some toes with this in 1 Timothy 2:9,10. But, what it boils down to is this. If a Christian woman loves God, she will try to please him by dressing in “modest apparel,” but if she loves herself, or her flesh, she will dress like a whore, usually to draw attention from other men. An old evangelist once said, “If it ain’t for sale, don’t advertise!”

“Adorning” here means overdressing. A woman shouldn’t dress in expensive clothes just to be noticed. They shouldn’t over-dress or under-dress. They should have “modest apparel” (1 Tim. 2:9).

1 Peter 3:4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

The “hidden man of the heart” is a reference to the new creature inside (I Cor. 5:17), which is a Christian’s soul and God’s Holy Spirit. The context is still to the woman. And, a woman that has a “meek and quiet spirit,” is of a great price to God. (See also Prov. 31:10.)

1 Peter 3:5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:

What is on the inside of a person comes out. Whether it is in speech or in action. If a woman is rebellious, she will usually show that rebellion by their speech or by the clothes she wears, etc. But, if a woman truly loves the Lord, she will try to please him in word and deed.

1 Peter 3:6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.

Now, here is a hard verse for the modern liberated woman to swallow. It says that Sarah called her husband, “Lord.” A Lord is someone that rules, or has leadership, over another. And, according to the Bible, when a man and woman are married, the man is to be the authority of that home. See also Genesis 3:16.

But, nowhere in the Bible does it command a woman now to call her husband Lord.

1 Peter 3:7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

The word “dwell” applies to a husband dwelling with his wife. The Bible calls the woman the “weaker vessel.” And Peter commands that they are to be treated as such by their husbands.

The woman is weaker for several reasons. A woman is a secondary creation. She was made after Adam, from one of Adam’s ribs. And, God made her with a different physique than a man. Thus, she is not as strong as a man is physically.

A woman is also weaker than a man emotionally. God made women very emotional, and because of this they are very unstable in certain situations.

But, what makes women the weakest is the fact that they are easily deceived (1 Tim. 2:14). Eve, in the garden of Eden, was talked into sinning by that old serpent. We have an expression nowadays, that goes like this, “Men fall in love with what they see, and women fall in love with what they hear.” Woman are usually deceived by words.

This verse is also conditional for a husband. It says if a man doesn’t honor the fact that his wife is the weaker vessel, then his prayers might be hindered.

1 Peter 3:8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:

The command to “be of one mind” can also be found in Paul’s writings in Romans 15:5 and Phil. 2:2. But, according to the context, this command of like-mindedness applies to husband and wife. The command is to be like-minded in compassion, love, pity, and courteousness.

Notice also where it says “love as brethren,” the context is still the marriage relationship. Thus, when a saved man marries a saved woman, she is his sister in Christ as well as his wife.

1 Peter 3:9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

All Christians are called to a blessing of an inheritance, but that inheritance is based on what you do for Jesus down here on earth. And, if you do nothing , you’ll get nothing. See Col.3:23-25.

1 Peter 3:10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:

Verse 10 and 11 go together. They are a list of things you should do for a long life.

Also, this verse is a condition. If you love life and want to see good days, you should keep your mouth from speaking evil and guile.

1 Peter 3:11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.

1 Peter 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

A cross reference for this verse would be Proverbs 15:3 which states, “The eyes of the Lord are in every place beholding the evil and the good.”

1 Peter 3:13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?

Peter asks, “who is he that will harm you?” And, that is a good question for a Christian. The most that a man can do is kill you. And, if he does, then you’ll go to be with the Lord (2Cor.5:8). Maybe, they could torture you for a few days or months or years before hand, but if you are born again, you’ll still go to heaven.

1 Peter 3:14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;

Here Peter is saying if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, don’t be troubled or frightened or afraid. Why? Because God will never leave you nor forsake you (Heb. 13:5,6).

1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

“Sanctify” here means to set apart. This verse says when you are being grilled as a Christian, that you should be able to give every man an answer. And when you answer, answer with scripture (1 Peter 4:11).

1 Peter 3:16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

A “good conscience” is a good thing. (See comments in 1 Peter 2:19). Peter is saying that if you have a good conscience, then you won’t be ashamed when someone does falsely accuse you.

1 Peter 3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

The “well doing” refers to what is done for Christ. And, the evil doing refers to sin. It is always better to suffer for doing right than for doing wrong. Read Galatians 6: 7-10.

1 Peter 3:18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

If ever there was one verse in the Bible that you could use to lead a soul to Jesus Christ, it would be this one. This verse explains the gospel very well. The gospel is found in 1Corinthians15:1-4.

1. Christ suffered	his death.
2. just for the unjust	for us.
3. quickened by Spirit	rose again.

Notice the verse says Christ suffered “once” for sins. But, there is a certain church that meets every Sunday to offer up what they call the Sacrifice of the Mass. And, they say it is the body and blood of Jesus Christ. They should call it Mess because that is what it is. Mess means to eat, to put something in the mouth. No, the verse says “once,” just as it does in Hebrews 10:10-13, not over and over again every Sunday.

Also, perceive in the verse where it says, “the just for the unjust.” The “just” is Jesus Christ. And, the “unjust” would have to be all sinners (Rom. 3:10,23 etc.)

“That he might bring us to God” is the purpose for Christ’s death. A sinner’s sins separate him from God and he can’t get to God without a blood sacrifice (Heb. 9:22). But, Jesus became the ultimate blood sacrifice on Calvary for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:2). Now, He is the mediator between God and man (1 Tim. 2:5,6).

Finally, the verse says that Christ was “quickened by the spirit.” “Quickened” means to revive or bring to life. Jesus’ resurrection proved that he was God manifest in the flesh (1Tim.3:16), because no other man could ever raise himself from the dead unless he was God.

Now we get into some more heavy stuff. Notice that Christ went and preached to the “spirits” in prison. Contrast that with “souls” in verse 20. “Spirits,” according to Hebrews 1:7,14, are called “ministering spirits, ” and “angels.”

In 2 Peter 2:4, we read that God “spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment” And also, we find in 1 Peter 4:6 that “the gospel was preached unto them that are dead...”

So, it appears that while Jesus’ body was lying in the grave for 3 days and nights, that his soul was in the depths of the earth announcing the damnation of those angels cast into prison or hell. And, he also preached the gospel to those souls that were dead in Abraham’s Bosom.

1 Peter 3:20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.

The first part of this verse is a continuation of the thought in verse 19. These angels or spirits were the ones who were “disobedient.”

And in the last part of the verse we come to a passage that all Church of Christ and Campbellites just love. They take the last few words of this verse to prove that a man is saved by water baptism. But, there are some holes in their doctrine as deep as the grand canyon.

First, the verse does not say, “saved by water baptism.” The word “baptism” is not even in the verse.

Second, Noah and his family (the eight souls) were never baptized under the water. They floated above the water. They were not saved spiritually, either, like we are in the church age, because they were not in the body of Christ, they were old testament saints. They were saved physically from the flood.

Lastly, and most importantly, a man is not saved by water baptism; he is saved by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ (Eph. 2:8, Gal. 2:16, Rom. 3:28, Acts 15:11, etc.) Do you know what that means? As sad as it is to say, all those people that have been duped by their “elders” into believing that water will wash away their sin are bound for the depths of hell when they die, because they have never been born again by faith in the blood of Jesus Christ (Rom.3:25).

1 Peter 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

Now, those Campbellites and Church of Christ waterdogs go hog wild on this verse also. They read it like this, “Whereunto even baptism doth also now save us.”

The verse says “the like figure.” Water Baptism is a “figure.” Not only that, according to the rest of the verse in parenthesis it is also, “the answer of a good conscience toward God.” Any one that would try to tell you that in order to get to heaven you have to be baptized in water is nuttier than a pecan pie. All baptism will do is get you wet, and you’ll go to hell wet! Notice where the verse says, “not the putting away of the filth of the flesh!” You have to get that! A man is saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Anything else will make the “cross of Christ of none effect”(1 Cor. 1:17).

1 Peter 3:22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

This verse tells about Jesus and the power and authority given to him after he arose.

1 Peter 4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;

This verse exhorts us “arm ourselves” to suffer for Christ, because he has suffered for us.

1 Peter 4:2 That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.

The “he” refers to a Christian as in the verse before. Just as Jesus Christ lived his life according to the will of God (See Matt. 26:39), so ought a Christian. We as Christians are also commanded in Romans 12:1,2 to prove the will of God.

1 Peter 4:3 For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:

“The will of the Gentiles” is defined in the verse. Their will is six things in this verse.

1 Peter 4:4 Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:

Unsaved people think it is strange when you don’t do these things with them. And, they will probably call you a Jesus Freak, or Holy Roller, or fanatic, when you don’t partake of their sins. Their standard alibi is, “Well, everyone else is doing it.” But, the appeal is to a saved man. Peter is saying, Haven’t you had enough?

1 Peter 4:5 Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.

These same unsaved Gentiles that make fun of you for not living like they do will be judged at the Great White Throne Judgment (Rev. 20:11-15), and have to give account of themselves to God (Rom. 14:12).

1 Peter 4:6 For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.

This verse tells us that the gospel was preached to someone that was dead. When Jesus died, he preached to two groups in the heart of the earth. He preached to the angels in prison and to those in Abraham’s bosom. All of which has been discussed in this commentary in 1Peter3:19.

1 Peter 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

The “gift” probably refers to eternal life that a man receives when he accepts Jesus Christ (Romans 6:23). But, after a Christian is saved, he may also get more gifts from God. These will be found in 1 Corinthians 12.

1 Peter 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

The “oracles of God” is a reference to the scripture (Rom. 3:1,2). When a man speaks, Peter says it should be as though what he spoke came from God.

One of the marks of a born again Christian (that isn’t backslidden) is boldness (Acts4:13,29,31). And, when a Christian quotes or preaches the word of God, he not only has boldness, but authority (Matt. 7:29, Mark 1:22).

1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

Don’t be shocked when God puts you through a trial or tribulation. It is for your betterment (Heb. 12:6). Notice also, that it says that it might be a “fiery trial.” In Jeremiah 18, man is likened unto a piece of clay and God is the Potter. Now, Clay is used to make pottery, and when the piece of pottery is finished, the Potter puts in into a kiln (or oven). Then it is “fired” in order to harden it so that it won’t break. Sometimes, God has to put us through some fiery trials in order to make us stronger Christians.

1 Peter 4:13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

When those “fiery trials” do come, don’t be sad, but “rejoice” because God is just making himself a piece of pottery that he can use.

1 Peter 4:14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

This verse could have a tribulation application. In Luke 6:22,23 Christ tells the disciples (Jews), Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you...and shall reproach you...for the Son of man’s sake. Rejoice ye in that day.” The “that day” refers to the tribulation.

But, it also applies to Christians. All throughout history born again Christians have suffered and died for Jesus Christ and been “happy” to do it (Read Fox's Book of Martyrs). How about you when the time comes?

1 Peter 4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.

A Christian is capable of all these things. In fact, a Christian can do anything that an unsaved man can do and still go to heaven. But, a Christian must remember when he sins that several things will happen. He’ll lose joy, he’ll lose rewards in heaven (2 John 8), he’ll lose fellowship with God, and he’ll have to reap what he sows (Gal. 6:7).

1 Peter 4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

In context with the verse before, Peter is saying that it is better to suffer as a Christian for doing right, than to suffer as a Christian as a murderer, or a thief, or an evildoer.

1 Peter 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

Peter basically says what Barney Fife used to say on the Andy Griffith show, “Nip it in the bud!” Don’t allow this kind of stuff (vs 15) to go on in the church.

A Christian still has a sinful nature after he is saved and is capable of these things that are mentioned in verse 3 and verse 15. But, Christians should judge themselves at the house of God and do right.

If an unsaved man looks at a saved person and sees that he is living the same way that he is, then why would he think that he would have to be saved. Live right for testimony’s sake.

1 Peter 4:18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

1 Peter 4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Notice the end of this verse where it says “well doing.” Peter uses that term a lot in his epistle. A Christian after he is saved is created to good works (Eph. 2:10), and he should have some “well doing” in his life.

Bob Jones, Sr. said that the two greatest words in the English language were “Do right.” He also said, “It’s never right to do wrong to get a chance to do right.”

1 Peter 5:1 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:

“Elders” is a reference to what we would call a Pastor. The Bible has several names for a Pastor. They are:

1 Peter 5:2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

Peter here is giving instructions to local Pastors. He uses the term “the flock” to refer to the local congregation. There is a reason that Peter says this. Jesus in John 21 left a lasting impression on Peter when he said to him, “Feed my lambs.” If that wasn’t enough, Jesus said it to him three times. Peter never forgot this for the rest of his life and tried to do just that.

The rest of this verse is instruction to a Pastor on what to do and what not to do.

1 Peter 5:3 Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

The word “lord” means a master or ruler over someone. Peter is saying that the Pastor is not to treat the congregation as his slaves. The Pastor’s leadership is to be spiritual (by prayer and preaching) and not physical. Peter says a Pastor is to be an “ensample” or example, instead of a dictator.

1 Peter 5:4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

The chief Shepherd is Jesus Christ, so all Pastors are little shepherds under him. In fact, the word “pastor”in Spanish means shepherd.

Notice also that there is a special crown reserved for a Pastor. There are 5 crowns in the New Testament given as rewards for serving Christ. They are:

1. Incorruptible Crown	1 Cor. 9:25
2. Crown of Life	James 1:12
3. Crown of Glory	1 Peter 5:4
4. Crown of Righteousness	2 Tim. 4:8
5. Crown of Rejoicing	1 Thess. 2:19

1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

“Younger” in context is probably a reference to younger preachers or Pastors. Paul tells Timothy to let no man despise his youth in 1 Tim. 4:12. But, it could also apply to the younger members in the church submitting to the elder members in the church, as in 1 Tim. 5:1.

Proverbs 3:34 (KJV) Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.

1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

A command for a Christian to be humble. It is much easier to humble yourself, then to have God humble you, because when God does it, it is not always the way you want to be humbled. Take Samson for example in the Old Testament. The last thing he wanted was to be captured and have his eyes put out. But, he refused to humble himself, so God helped him.

This verse has a great promise to a born again Christian. That is: God cares for you. And, he showed how much he cared for you by dying for you on the cross.

1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

This verse may not look like much at first, but it is loaded with information. It starts by giving two commands to the Christian: to be sober and to be vigilant. (“Sober” means awake. And, “Vigilant” means watchful or alert.) Then it gives the reason why you should be like this, “because[of] your adversary the devil...”

Notice the devil is called “your adversary.” Another name for the devil is Satan which means enemy or adversary. Satan before he fell, was called Lucifer, which means light bearer. He used to be “the anointed cherub that covereth” (Ezek. 28:14). Notice that he was a cherub. In Ezekiel chapter 10, we find that now there are four cherubim. The Bible gives us the names of two of them: Michael and Gabriel. And, Jewish tradition and writings name the others as Raphael and Uriel.

Now, before Lucifer fell (Isa. 14). There were five Cherubim around the throne of God, with Lucifer on top as the anointed cherub. They were placed like this:

Then, when Lucifer fell, he was cast out of heaven downward to earth. And, Satanists have used this following symbol ever since to commemorate this fall:

1 Peter 5:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

Notice Peter says not to fight the devil, but rather to “resist” him. James says this also in James 4:7.

1 Peter 5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

1 Peter 5:12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.

“Silvanus” is mentioned several times in scripture. He is found preaching with Paul and Timothy in 2 Cor. 1:19, 1 Thess. 1:1, and 2 Thess. 1:1. But, here he is found with Peter.

1 Peter 5:13 The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son.

Notice this verse says that Peter is in Babylon when writing this epistle. When Peter goes to evangelize the known world he goes East, and Paul goes West.

An interesting note is, The Living Bible changes Babylon to “Rome” because the Catholics say that Peter was the first Pope in Rome. In doing this, they associate the Catholic Church with Mystery Babylon the Great the Mother of Harlots in Revelation 17. Now, anyone who has a King James Bible can read their Bible and know that this is exactly who the Mother of Harlots is. But, we appreciate those on the Living Bible Translating Committee for associating the Pope with the Antichrist.

1 Peter 5:14 Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

A “kiss of charity” is a custom that they had during that time in and about that region.

Notice also the expression “in Christ.” This is a Pauline expression, showing that when Peter met Paul in Acts 15, it had quite a lasting impression on him.

	First, are the four Gospels, which tell of Christ’s birth, earthly ministry, death, and resurrection.
	Next follows the book of Acts, which is a transition from Israel to the Church.
	Then, Romans through Titus, which are all doctrinally to the Church age.
	Titus ends with the rapture (in Titus 2:13).
	After Titus is Philemon, and Hebrews, which is a transition from the Church Age to the Tribulation.
	Then, follows James, which is doctrinally written to Jews in the Tribulation.
	Next comes 1st and 2nd Peter, which apply to both the Church age, and Jews in the tribulation.
	Then 1, 2, and 3 John, which have triple application: to the Church age, Tribulation, and the Millennium.
	Then Jude, and finally
	Revelation, which applies to the Church Age, Tribulation, Millennium, and the New Heavens and the New Earth.

	Pontus
	Galatia
	Cappadocia
	Asia
	Bithynia

	It Saves (Romans 5:9)
	It Cleanses (1 John 1:7)
	It Forgives (Colossians 1:14)
	It Purges (Hebrews 9:14)

1. Babes	1 Cor. 3:1
2. Little Children	1 John 2:1
3. Children	Gal. 3:26
4. Young Men	1 John 2:13
5. Fathers	1 John 2:13
6. Elders	1 T im. 5:1,17
7. Aged	Philemon 9

	Feed the flock (with the word of God).

	Taking the oversight (watch)

	Not by constraint (don’t be forced into it)

	Willingly (volunteer)

	Not for filthy lucre (money).

	Ready mind (preach, pray or die at a moments notice)

	Literal (or Doctrinal),

	Spiritual (or Devotional), and

	*Historical.*

	Overseer (Acts 20:28)

	Bishop (1 Tim. 3:1, Titus 1:7)

	Ruler (Heb. 13:7)