1 Peter 1:1-2

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!  Jesu Jevu!
    1 Peter:1 - Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,

   First, Peter starts out saying his name, of course Peter, and then states he is an "apostle of Jesus Christ".  He does not hesitate or add words like "by the will of God" as did Paul; he tells you who he is.  If you notice in the Bible you will not find missionaries of Jesus Christ; evangelists of Jesus Christ; or prophets of Jesus Christ; ONLY "APOSTLES OF JESUS CHRIST".  This shows their importance and authority to share the good news.

   Next we see "to the strangers scattered throughout".  Different versions of the Bible may say: travelers, sojourners, pilgrims, and others; however, the idea here is this is written to the Gentiles, yet referring to them as they did the Jews when they were conquered by Bablyon and scattered through out the world.

   Now why did it mention  Pontus , Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia?  These were the places Christianity has first spread after the beginning of the church, "the WAY".  When messengers were sent out these were more likely to be the routes then took the letters from Peter.  The letters written were intended for all Christians, not just some in one area.

  1 Peter 1: ² Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

   First, Peter says the "elect"  and we may read this as those chosen by God.  Then, "according to the foreknowledge of God the Father" meaning this choosing is not random or a shot in the dark.  God already knows who is open and will accept His calling.  God knows who will accept Him and who will not.
  After being of the "elect" comes sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience.  Sanctification means to be set apart, to be made Holy, and by being made Holy we will follow in obedience.  However, since we will fall short of being Holy, then sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from sin; and now Holy in God's sight.
       First, a covenant is formed, then we are ordained as priests to Him (God), and finally we are cleansed from our corruption and sin. Each one of these things is ours through the work of Jesus on the cross.  Wow, how great a gift from God, our Father in Heaven.
    Grace to you and peace be multiplied: Peter brings a greeting that had become common among the Christians, combining elements from Greek culture (Grace) and Jewish culture (peace).

  May this study be of interest to you.  Tomorrow 1 Peter 1:3-?; we'll see how far we get. Love you all.

Gloria Deo Soli

Johnny