Author:

Simon (or Simeon) was the original name of Peter, the son of Jonas (or John), and brother of Andrew, a disciple of John the Baptist, as Peter also may have been. A fisherman by occupation, he was an inhabitant of Bethsaida on the Sea of Galilee, though subsequently he dwelt with his family at Capernaum. From Mark 1:30 we learn that Peter was a married man during the period of the Gospels.

Living Biography:

Jensen points out that Peter’s life can be divided into four parts:  (1) Pre-gospel Period; (2) Gospel period; (3) Early Church Period; and (4) Later

Scripture Reading: John 21:15-19.

Memory Verse: “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19)

INTRODUCTION:

Before studying the writings of Peter, it will be helpful to know something of Peter’s life. His life can be easily broken down into four time periods:(1) Prior to meeting Christ, (2) The gospel era with Christ, (3) Time during the early church shown in Acts 1-15, (4) The last decade or so of his life. Peter was truly a man in transition during a transitionary period of history.

The character and personality of Peter is

THE PURPOSE, REALITY, AND CERTAINTY OF SALVATION

Scripture Reading: I Peter 1:1-12.

Memory Verse: “Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (I Peter 1:5)

INTRODUCTION:

Many sermons and articles have been presented on salvation. Few can match the doxology presented to the elect by Peter.

Peter rejoiced because salvation was his personally, and for all eternity. As we tip-toe through these first twelve verses we can’t help but sense the glory of the Lord.

This panoramic view of salvation is ours to study and experience. The proper

SALVATION LEAVES ITS MARK – HOLINESS

Scripture Reading: I Peter 1:13-25.

Memory Verse:  “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” (I Peter 1:15-16)

INTRODUCTION:

Last week our study centered on salvation. Now Peter is going to encourage us to live a life befitting so great a salvation. In a practical application, it’s a challenge with which we often struggle.

We easily understand that God is holy and is to be reverenced at all times. But, is it

Scripture Reading:  I Peter 2:1-10.

Memory Verse:  “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light….” (I Peter 2:9)

INTRODUCTION:

Our study begins with a transition paragraph (I Peter 2:1-3) starting with the word “wherefore.” We should consider this as a connector from what has been said previously to what he is about to present. This should be helpful in our discussion.

After covering salvation, Peter now presents to us some views on Christian

Scripture Reading:  I Peter 2:11-25.

Memory Verse:  “For even hereunto were ye called:  because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.” (I Peter 2:21)

INTRODUCTION:

We are quickly brought back down to earth by Peter as he presents us with our responsibilities and obligations. We should walk carefully as we identify the demands put upon God’s children.

We are first challenged to be subject to the civil government. A good citizen can do much to promote the good name of Jesus Christ. No doubt our churches have been hurt because of the

Scripture Reading:  I Peter 3:1-12.

Memory Verse:  “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile.” (I Peter 3:10)

INTRODUCTION:

Peter continues his presentation on the expected duties of a Christian. We will center on a husband-wife relationship and also our relationship within the corporate body of Christ

We must be careful in our study that we gain the proper intentions of the writer. Peter is not condoning slavery in the marital setting. ‘‘The word subjection has no thought of inferiority or servile subjection.

Scripture Reading:  I Peter 3:13-4:11.

Memory Verse:  “But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye:  and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled….” (I Peter 3:14)

INTRODUCTION:

A study on the suffering of a Christian should never be easy. Peter presents to us the position of a Christian suffering both as a citizen and a saint.

This lesson deals more with our attitude towards suffering. Many of those that Peter is directing this letter to will be persecuted and even die for their personal commitment to Jesus Christ. When all is said and done it’s

Author:

The authorship of this epistle has been challenged by critics. Modem critics say it’s a work of the second century by some unknown person. It seems the epistle states some helpful facts to identify its writer.

• The name of Simon Peter is in the introduction (1:1).
• The writer is also an apostle (1:1).
• The writer has written an earlier epistle (3:1).
• The writer knew the Apostle Paul (3:15-16).
• Was at the mount of transfiguration (1:16-18).
• It foretells of Peter’s death (1:13-15).

With this evidence and for the purpose of this study we will acknowledge Peter as the author.

Date

Scripture Reading: I Peter 4:12-5:14.

Memory Verse: “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.” (I Peter 4:19)

INTRODUCTION:

Our desires would be that the world would be without trials and suffering. However, as realists we know that even devout Christians face suffering and hardship. C. H. Spurgeon said, “You begin to reign the moment you begin to suffer well.”

Persecution can come in various forms. It can be vile slander or ridiculous false charges. It can come from not engaging