Faith Works Summer Devotions

Background of the Book of 1st Peter: 1. Who: Peter, one of the disciples, among Jesus’ inner circle. We see his faith in the proclamation of who Jesus is (Matt 16:16) while not fully understanding what Jesus came to do. Certainly his betrayal is well known, but so is his restoration. Throughout Acts we see his leadership in the church and furthering of the faith. According to tradition, Peter was crucified upside down before Nero’s death, about A.D. 66. 2. When: A.D. 64, The reference to Babylon in 5:13 is almost certainly Rome as few people were in Babylon in these days, and Peter spent his final years in Rome. 3. Whom: Gentile Christians in Asia minor, to cities that extend beyond the ministry covered in Acts. 4. What: Facing increasing persecution, Peter wanted to encourage and reassure these believers to remain steady in the faith and count it a privilege to share in Christ’s sufferings. 5. WHY: To withstand attacks on the church from outside the church. We who persevere should be full of hope. We will en