1 Peter 1
Context:
Writer: the apostle Peter
He was the “leader” of the apostle group in many ways - he was outspoken and seemed very sure of himself - even though sometimes he was certainly not correct in his assessment of Jesus and what He was trying to accomplish. 
His name was mentioned more than another person in the gospels - except Jesus
Jesus rebuked him more than any other disciple
Who:
He is writing to Christians in Asia Minor - modern day Turkey - Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia
The recipients of the letter were mostly Jewish - but some Gentiles too
They were experiencing some form of persecution
When and Where:
Probably written from Rome
Most likely between AD 62-64 - Peter doesn’t mention Paul and Paul doesn’t mention Peter
What & Why: themes
Peter was a leader - but he went through some very difficult moments developing his ability to lead
The Romans didn’t mind Judaism because it wasn’t a threat - but Christianity was new and it’s followers were different so they were “officially” persecuted - Persevere in spite of suffering, trials and persecution
New birth in Christ will help us persevere struggles 

1:1-2The believers were chosen to be a light to anyone who hasn’t believed - everyone who is a believer has the same calling
We need to take advantage of the grace and peace He supernaturally gives us. 

1:3-12
3 - God’s great mercy is because of Him not because of us
4 - our inheritance in Christ is imperishable - cannot be removed or expire
5 - Eternal security - we are being guarded by God’s power - not ours
6-7 - We may suffer on this earth - everyone does, but it is for a short time. We go through suffering and then we show the proven character of our faith - which is more valuable than we can imagine.All trials are designed to do 3 things: prove your faith, develop your faith, and glorify your savior.
8-9 - During the trials I must behave in a way that lines up with what I believe. I rejoice in Christ - not because of my circumstances, but because of my salvation and my faith in Him
10-12 - The prophets didn’t understand all about the Messiah, but they searched for Him with their minds.They weren’t serving themselves but they were serving us - their work and faith is a great testimony to us.
1:13-25
13-16 - have your mind ready for action - action for Christ cannot just be physical - it is mental as well.My hope must be COMPLETELY set on the grace of Jesus Christ - their hope is set on the future - not just the present.I must be holy in my conduct - not acting like a child. Be holy because I am holy - Leviticus 11:44-45 - holy means separate or set apart - everything about God is in a class all by itself - it has no comparison - I am to pursue a life that is characterized by holiness
17 - I have a different relationship with God because of Jesus - I can call Him Father - instead of judge or king.
18-21 - I should live in holiness and reverence of God because I was bought with a price.The price was much more than silver or gold - the blood of JesusGod’s plan before the foundation of the world was Jesus - it was always Jesus
22-25 - I should love those around me - especially those who know God - they are my brothers and sisters (family).The love I have for those around me comes from my own salvation - not because of anything I’ve done.God’s word(s) endure for all eternity - nothing God says every fades away or becomes invalidCreation will go away so often, but God’s Word stays forever!