Page 23 - February 2026 - Truth & Tidings

J ohn 21 (“feed my lambs ... sheep”) is the background of the epistle. Note Peter’s

change in attitude toward suffering.

Author
• His Identity – Peter, his Greek name
• His Authority – An Apostle
• His Visibility – Much of Peter’s own experiences seen in the epistle. Look at three
occasions when he was taken aside with the three (Jairus’ daughter – new life, Mount
of Transfiguration – glory, Gethsemane – suffering).
Audience
• Relationship to their Nation – Strangers scattered: probably mostly Jews but also
Gentile element seems clear from some of the Scriptures in Peter. Note, however, the
many OT references and allusions. “Strangers” was more their relationship to where
they were and not the same as of the dispersion in James.
• Relationship to Location – Asia (Turkey of today); there would be local responsibility.
• Relationship to the Lord – elect

Atmosphere
ch.1 – Scattered among the nations
ch.2 – Strangers in the wilderness
ch.3 – Subject ones in society
ch.4 – Sufferers in the fiery trial
ch.5 – Sheep facing the lion
Aim

1 Peter 5:12 gives the reason for the epistle: “exhorting, and testifying that this is the
true grace of God wherein ye stand.” Suffering saints noted 10 times.

Approach
He brings before them three things to strengthen them:
1. Their Position – The Greatness of their Salvation
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