As Peter continues to encourage and exhort these believers who have
been scattered because of persecution, he turns now to address their
interaction with one another. In spite of opposition and suffering,
Peter calls these believers to compassionately and humbly engage one
another. He continues his theme of maintaining good conduct before those
who are outside the church. Our conduct or way of living actually
demonstrates what we truly believe about God. With that in mind, Peter
again challenges these believers to live out their faith with one
another, as a Christian community. As believers, our relationships
should be defined by loving compassion, even if we suffer evil. By God's
grace, we can exemplify the character of Jesus as we engage with one
another.
Peter writes to believers who have been scattered because of the
opposition and persecution they are facing. These believers are now
scattered across Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, Bithynia; which is
modern day Turkey. Peter addresses throughout this epistle the
appropriate response to suffering. Part of that response involves
understanding our connection as believers to Jesus and the suffering
that he endured on our behalf. We can follow the example of Jesus and
endure suffering and the various hardships that may come into our lives.
Peter writes to encourage these believers to endure because of the
living hope that we have through Jesus. You can endure today, as you
hope in Jesus.
Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose
of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers
and Engaging our Community.
