Next Up ... First and Second Peter

Next Up ... We Begin First and Second Peter Tomorrow

Keep in mind that in the NT 5.1 plan, we don’t read the New Testament straight through from Matthew to Revelation.  Instead we are dividing up the four Gospels and after each of the four, we’ll pick up the books of the Bible that are connected to that Gospel writer.  Since Mark is believed to have been the first of the four Gospel writers to complete his account of “Jesus the Son of God,” (Mark 1:1) and it's also believed that Peter was informing his writing, it only makes sense that we would turn to the two letters written by Peter.

Just to get you ready for tomorrow’s reading, please keep in mind that many believe that these two letters were both written while Peter was living in Rome – the reference in I Peter 5:13 to Babylon is a euphemism for the city where the Caesars rulled.  Many believe he was there during the days of Nero and most likely wrote this letter around the year 62 or 63.  The letter seems to be addressed to Gentiles who have become followers of Christ and gather for worship throughout the provinces he mentions at the beginning of the letter.  The major theme Peter tackles is: “How do I deal with suffering and persecution and still remain faithful to Christ?” 

Just to get you a head start (and since First Peter is only five chapters long), Peter’s second letter is believed by many to be written around 64 AD.  It was written shortly before Peter was put to death because of his faith in Christ, and his refusal to recant his confession that Jesus is Lord – not Caesar.  It was probably written shortly after persecution broke out following the fires that broke out in Rome – and Nero’s decision to blame this disaster on the Christians.  He continues to encourage all who follow Christ to remain faithful – even in the face of such persecution.