Day 356 Reading Schedule: 1Peter 2-5

1 Peter 2: The Duties of the Saints
[Summary]
The author exhorts the saints to live a holy life and grow to the full stature of Christ (vv. 1-3). The saints, as a chosen race and a royal priesthood, must live for the glory of God (vv. 4-10). The saints, as strangers, must control their fleshly desires and strive to do good deeds (vv. 11-12). Christians are citizens of heaven, but they must not completely deny the order of earthly life (vv. 13-17). Servants must obey their masters, and those who suffer in vain must endure while looking at the footsteps of Jesus Christ’s suffering. Only the appearance of enduring suffering by doing good is beautiful before God (vv. 18-25).
This chapter continues the exhortation of the saints who have been reborn through the word of God regarding the duties they must practice as His people. The saints must not be slandered by the Gentiles, and they must fulfill their duties as saints. Saints must follow the example of Jesus Christ in their conduct and duties.

1 Peter 3: Principles of Christian Life
[Overview]
The author talks about the family life of the saints. He exhorts the wife to obey her husband and to cultivate her heart rather than her appearance, and the husband to cherish his wife, knowing that she is the weaker vessel (verses 1-7). He also exhorts the saints to love one another, to be pitiful and humble, and not to repay evil with evil, but rather to bless one another (verses 8-12). On the other hand, he exhorts them to be thankful and to know that suffering for good deeds is a blessing rather than suffering for evil deeds. He insists that when suffering, we should be patient and always be prepared to give an answer to those who ask us the reason for our faith and hope (verses 13-17). He mentions the incident where Christ preached to the spirits in prison and emphasizes that the true meaning of baptism is the transformation of the whole person (verses 18-22).
This chapter continues the theme of obedience from the previous chapter. The apostle Peter's main point was that the saints, as children of God, should not let their lives and duties become a hindrance in their families or social relationships. Peter then emphasizes again the hope of those who suffer for the name of Christ.

1 Peter 4: The Sufferings of Christians
[Summary]
Contrasts the sufferings of the flesh with the lusts of the flesh. He strictly warns us to follow the example of Christ who suffered in the flesh and to avoid lusts such as fornication, debauchery, and drunkenness (verses 1-6). He exhorts us to live holy lives, loving and serving one another, knowing that the end is near (verses 7-11). The author anticipates a special situation of suffering and encourages us in various ways. He commands us to prepare for the fiery trials that will come. However, he encourages us that we will share not only in the sufferings of Christ but also in the glory of Christ. He also clearly distinguishes between Christians and the common sinners who have caused them to suffer. If they are reproached for the name of Christ, Christians give glory to God. Christians should not be ashamed of suffering but should completely rely on and trust in God (verses 12-19).
This chapter continues to discuss the attitude of Christians in suffering, starting from verse 13 of the previous chapter. Peter says in this chapter that Christians must serve others with love even in the midst of suffering because suffering is a stepping stone for their faith. He also encourages them to endure all difficulties with the hope that everything will be revealed at God's judgment.

1 Peter 5: Exhortation for Faithfulness
This chapter addresses the cooperative and individual training of Christians. Elders have a special responsibility to care for the flock, but they must first look after their souls. Young people must submit to elders, and both must develop the grace of humility, which is the only right attitude to have before God (vv. 1-6). Believers must cast their cares on God and always be on guard against the evil schemes of the enemy, the devil. This brings us back to the theme of suffering. But its purpose is only to confirm that the suffering ones are building up future glory (vv. 7-11). Finally, the author concludes the letter with a brief congratulatory message after conveying greetings from his co-worker Silas, the church in Babylon, and Mark (vv. 12-14).
Peter gave courage and encouragement to those who labor for the gospel by emphasizing that those who share in Christ’s sufferings will also share in his future glory. He also encouraged all the saints to follow Christ and humbly fulfill the mission given by the Lord so that they may receive the crown of glory.