Peter warns believers to be alert and sober-minded because the devil prowls like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. But believers are to resist him, standing firm in the faith, knowing that suffering is shared by believers throughout the world. Then Peter gives the promise: after suffering “a little while,” the God of all grace will restore, strengthen, and establish His people.

Peter tells believers not to be surprised by the fiery trial that comes on them, as though something strange were happening. Instead, they are to rejoice as they participate in the sufferings of Christ, so they may also be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.” Peter says to always be ready to give an answer for the hope you have — but to do this with gentleness and respect.

“He himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”

1 Peter 2:9 says believers are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession,” called to declare His praises because He brought us out of darkness into His wonderful light.

“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

1 Peter teaches believers how to live as chosen exiles with living hope, holy conduct, Christlike endurance, gentle witness, sober readiness, and firm faith until the Chief Shepherd appears. 🕊️