The New Testament

A Historical and Theological Introduction

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Chapter

37. First Peter

Questions for Research and Discussion

  1. How does the fact that 1 Peter is a circular letter influence how it is to be read? Does the fact that it is not as firmly rooted within a community diminish its value?
  2. It appears that 1 Peter has two endings, one at 4:11 and a second one at 5:11. Does this indicate that it is a composite document? Defend both sides.
  3. How does the supposed presence of baptismal, liturgical, and creedal material affect the interpretation of 1 Peter?
  4. How does 1 Peter use the OT? How is this similar to what we have seen in Paul’s letters and in Hebrews?
  5. Trace the theme of suffering in 1 Peter. How would you describe how suffering is viewed in 1 Peter?