First and Second Peter are grouped in what are called the General Epistles, written to the Church at large. The theme of First Peter is the refining and growth potential in our sufferings, 1Pe 1:3, 1Pe 1:6; 1Pe 2:2. This epistle was written to believers scattered by persecution throughout Asia Minor (1 Pe 1:1). The date was circa 64-65 A.D.—the beginning of Nero’s persecutions. First Peter is the best known and loved of these epistles, called by E.J. Goodspeed, “One of the most moving pieces of persecution literature.” This epistle is written to suffering believers, and is styled by Isaac Walton as, “affectionate, loving, lowly, and humble.” This epistle conveys an intense expectation of the Lord’s return as seen in 1Pe 1:5, 1Pe 1:7, 1Pe 1:13, 1Pe 2:12, 1Pe 4:13, 1Pe 4:17, 1Pe 5:1, 1Pe 5:4.
Gene Cunningham - April 19, 2023
God is a Mathmatician
1st Peter 2:2 concludes, "Grace to you and peace be multiplied." It should be challenging to you to realize that you can multiply grace and peace. You know, God is a mathematician. When we come to Christ, He subtracts our sins. He adds the righteousness of Christ. And then He multiplies grace and peace. He even divides. You know, you have splits in churches. One group goes this way, one goes another. Sometimes those divisions have to happen. He's a great mathematician! The greeting “Grace to you and peace be multiplied” not only reminds us that the utilization of God’s grace provisions (His written word, our spiritual bank account (Eph.1:3) combined with the indwelling work of the Spirit (1Th.5:23). The phrase “be multiplied” to grow, increase, and is in the passive voice (God does the work), and the optative mood, expressing the will of God for our lives.
From Series: "Gospel Shorts"
These are intended to reach unbelievers. Please share these with your unbelieving friends.