Matthew

I Peter

LeRoy Eims

The names of the apostles of Jesus are recorded in four places in the New Testament. In each case the name of Peter is first on the list. The Lord had his twelve, but he also had his three, Peter James, and John; who were with him on special occasions. Peter was one of these. Peter was mightily used of God in public evangelism.

When he preached on the day of Pentecost, 3,000 people were added to the church. As a result of the healing of the lame man, and Peter's sermon that followed, 5,000 more believed. He was chosen to lead Cornelius to Christ and thus open the door for the Gentiles to become Christians. As a result of his ministry, all that dwelt in Lydda and Sharon turned to the Lord.

Peter had been a fisherman. He heard the call of Christ: "And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon, called Peter, and Andrew, his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. And he said unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:18,19)

Peter must have been a good follower, because he was a good fisher of men. He was brought to Christ by Andrew his brother. Peter was energetic, enthusiastic and impetuous; a natural born leader. The name which Jesus gave him, "Rock", was indicative of his real character, which Jesus well understood: strength of conviction, courage, boldness, although he did deny his Lord. Later, however, he was absolutely fearless under persecution.

Peter's first letter was written to strengthen, encourage and comfort Christians in the midst of persecution and to remind them of their great hope in Christ. He speaks to them as pilgrims on the earth, away from home, suffering, journeying toward, and longing for their heavenly home.

The church was undergoing afflictions and trials all over the world (I Peter 5:9). It seemed to many that the end had come. It looked like the devil was about to gain the day (I Peter 5:8).

Thus this epistle was born in an atmosphere of suffering. He exhorted Christians not to think it strange that they had to suffer, reminding them that the great work of Christ was accomplished by suffering. (I Peter 1:3‑9)

That Peter was chosen by Christ to encourage Christians, comes as no surprise. He knew the agony of defeat. He had been there. After he had denied the Lord out of fear of persecution, he broke down and wept. (Luke 22:62)

Later, he showed marvelous stamina and control during the most violent resistance. He had known victory and defeat. He could identify with those who were terrified and he could challenge them to victory. He had done it all.

He reminded them of the constant watchcare of the Lord (I Peter 3:12‑14). He reminded them to be sure that their suffering was the result of godly living and not because of any wrong doing on their part (I Peter 2:19,20).

Peter has been an encouragement and challenge to Christians down through the ages. His life had its ups and downs like all of ours. His ministry was mightily blessed of God. His letters minister to our needs. Study this letter to find consolation in trials.