Theme

Peter’s overarching concern is for the holiness of the Church. He recognizes the challenges inherent in this effort, both due to our own fallen natures, and the outside influences amongst which we live. Under the head of holiness, we might also add righteousness, perseverance, obedience and civility. But, holiness seems the organizing principle of the letter.

 

Outline

  1. Salutation (1Pe 1:1-1:2 )
  2. The Call for Holiness (1Pe 1:3-1:21)
    1. A Living Hope (1Pe 1:3-1:12)
      1. Christ Our Source (1Pe 1:3-1:9)
      2. The Witness of the Prophets (1Pe 1:10-1:12)
    2. Be Holy (1Pe 1:13-1:21)
  3. The Response of Holiness (1Pe 1:22-2:10 )
    1. Seek Maturity (1Pe 1:22-2:3)
    2. You Are a Temple (1Pe 2:4-2:8)
    3. You Are a Priest (1Pe 2:9-2:10)
  4. Holiness in Action (1Pe 2:11-3:13 )
    1. A Call to Good Works (1Pe 2:11-2:18)
      1. Abstinence (1Pe 2:11-2:12)
      2. Civil Obedience (1Pe 2:13-2:18)
    2. Christ Our Example in Suffering (1Pe 2:19-2:25)
    3. Duties of Husbands & Wives (1Pe 3:1-3:7)
    4. Do Good (1Pe 3:8-3:13)
  5. Holiness Under Trials (1Pe 3:14-4:11 )
    1. Undeserved Suffering (1Pe 3:14-3:22)
      1. God's Will, God's Glory (1Pe 3:14-3:17)
      2. Christ Our Example (1Pe 3:18-3:22)
    2. The Mortification of Sin (1Pe 4:1-4:5)
    3. Remain Ready (1Pe 4:6-4:11)
  6. Applied Holiness (1Pe 4:12-5:11 )
    1. For the Suffering(1Pe 4:12-4:19)
    2. For the Shepherd (1Pe 5:1-5:4)
    3. For the Sheep (1Pe 5:5-5:11)
  7. Conclusion & Benediction (1Pe 5:12-5:14 )