The epistle of First Peter was written to churches that existed at the margins of society and lived under the pressures of persecution. In fact, Peter describes these Christians as living in “exile.” Even though the people of God (Israel) experienced a very real historic exile (Assyria & Babylon), all Christians everywhere live in a spiritual exile.

Peter’s concern is that these Churches understand how being exile informs how they relate to the broader culture. Living in exile means living between the temptations of total assimilation, violent revolt, and complete withdrawal.

Against these extremes Peter reminds the church to live uncompromised holy lives on mission within the culture. The church is called to stand firm in God’s grace in the face of persecution, neither withdrawing nor assimilating. This is no easy task. But Christian exiles have an unshakeable hope in thier risen, reigning and one day returning Savior - Jesus Christ.

https://www.northbaychurch.org/1-peter-unshakeable-hope-for-exiles/

From Series: First Peter: Unshakeable Hope for Exiles | More Messages from Pastor Darin | Download Audio

From Series: "First Peter: Unshakeable Hope for Exiles"