Chapter summary. Peter writes to Christians scattered through the Roman Empire (1:1–2) who are under severe stress. Yet Peter speaks first of hope: a living hope that comes through the resurrection of Jesus and which promises us a grand inheritance in heaven (vv. 3–5). In view of this we rejoice despite present trials. As a refiner’s fire purifies gold, so trials purify our faith and will result in praise and honor when Jesus returns (vv. 6–7). Even here and now our love for Christ stimulates an inexpressible joy, an evidence and an outgrowth of salvation (vv. 8–9).
