I and II Peter

XXI. I Peter

Author – Apostle Peter with the assistance of Silas (I Peter 5:12)
When – 60 A.D. perhaps from Rome
To Whom – Christians in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey.)
Purpose – To offer encouragement to Christians experiencing persecution. Peter reminded the believers that because of God’s great mercy believers have been given a new life, a living hope, and an eternal inheritance that will never be taken from them (I Peter 1:3-6.) Peter also exhorted Christians to pursue a life of holiness even in the midst of persecution (I Peter 1:13-16, 2:9-12.) Jesus is our example on how to endure suffering (I Peter 3:21-25.)
Key Verses – I Peter 2:9-12

XXII. II Peter

Author – Apostle Peter
When – 64 A.D. perhaps from Rome shortly before Peter’s death
To Whom – unknown. Either to Christians in Rome or Asia Minor (modern day Turkey.)
Purpose – Peter knew that his death was near. His second letter has a similar theme to Paul’s second letter to Timothy. Peter’s second letter can be read as his “Farewell Address” to Christians. Peter vigorously condemns false teachers who swayed unbelievers from the true faith and weakened the faith of believers. Peter pleaded with believers remain faithful to Christ to persevere in the face of adversity and to pursue righteousness. Peter ends his letter by addressing one of the accusations false teachers were making against Jesus. It had been almost 60 years since Jesus had ascended into Heaven promising to return. False teachers were going around saying it’s been 60 years and Jesus had yet to return. Peter’s response to this accusation can be found in II Peter chapter 3.Key Verses – II Peter 1:3-15