1 PETER

Author - peter apostle of Jesus

Text itself Questions Peter’s authorship

refers to himself as an “elder”

1) not associated with Peter

2) development in church organization that fits latter part of first century CE

= pseudonymous after Peter died

Likely Peter’s disciples wrote with this name

Babylon

1.  common designation for Rome in Jewish and Christian writings after destruction of temple in 70 CE
2. Peter was martyred in Rome around 65-67, Rome commonly referred to Babylon

Audience

1. salutation addresses “exiles of Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, Bithynia” locations were Roman regions making up Asia minor (Turkey)

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2. Recipients in Northern Arc, communities not founded by Paul, Gentile Christians

“Exiles” and “resident aliens” - Gentiles

1) scholars suggest legal, social terms referring to Christians whose political and social status was marginal

2) Most understand as metaphorical, drawn from Jewish scriptures = Christian’s new identity

Occasion, reason 3

Addresses several churches, share common situations

\-       Suffering on the account of faith

\-       Verbal slander “maligned”, “blasphemed” and “reviled” (similar to stereotyping

\-       Random acts of violence

Genre

customary salutation, concluding remarks, replaces thanksgiving with extended blessing to God

Body structure 2 divisions

1) the new identity as people of God

2) proper conduct in society and in suffering

Body discusses 4 communal identity as Christians:

1) reader’s conversion

2) granted privileges and identity marks of Israel (ex: chosen race, royal priest hood” vs redefining earthly status as “exiles” and “aliens”

3) constitute the “household of God”, love and care for one another

4) anchors identity in Jesus Christ and his own suffering and share in glory

Encourages readers to

1. adapt to their social environment to avoid unnecessary slander = governing authorities and household relations
2. (honor emperor, slaves and wives instructed to conform to traditional norms and values within household)

Such conformity functions…

to counter accusations and suspicions of domestic and social rebellion

Conduct themselves honorably