Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.0/10
A steady and helpful exposition of 1 Peter that guides teachers through the letter’s themes of hope, holiness, and faithful endurance.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 320 pages
- Type
- Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level)
- Theo. Perspective
- Baptist, Broadly Evangelical, Reformed
- Overall score
- 8 / 10
- Strength
- A steady and well-structured guide that faithfully traces Peter’s argument and supports pastors with dependable doctrinal clarity.
John MacArthur’s 1 Peter offers a steady and pastorally rich exposition of Peter’s letter to scattered believers facing hardship and opposition. We are led through the apostle’s call to steadfast hope, holy living, and Christ-like endurance, with MacArthur following his familiar verse-by-verse approach. The commentary is written for pastors, Bible teachers, and thoughtful lay readers who desire clarity, doctrinal steadiness, and pastoral encouragement from the text.
MacArthur provides helpful background to the circumstances of suffering in Asia Minor and consistently keeps the focus on Peter’s pastoral aims. He offers brief linguistic insights, clear theological explanation, and practical application throughout. While the commentary does not pursue academic debates in depth, it succeeds in offering faithful exposition for those preparing sermons or leading Bible studies.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
This volume shines in its treatment of Christian suffering and perseverance. MacArthur shows how Peter grounds endurance in the grace of God, the example of Christ, and the future inheritance promised to believers. His exposition of 1 Peter 1:3–9 is especially strong, helping readers feel the weight of Christian hope amid trials. Pastors will find this section rich for preaching encouragement to weary saints.
We also appreciate MacArthur’s clarity in handling the call to holiness. His reflections on living honourably among unbelievers, resisting sinful desires, and embracing a distinctively Christian way of life offer dependable guidance for discipleship and pastoral ministry.
The commentary provides clear and balanced instruction on submission and authority—addressing government, the workplace, and the home. While holding a complementarian view, MacArthur expresses these convictions with pastoral sensitivity. His exposition of Christ’s suffering and submission in chapter 2 is particularly helpful in shaping a Christ-centred ethic for believers.
MacArthur’s handling of difficult passages—such as 1 Peter 3:18–22—is straightforward and conservative. Though he does not engage extensively with alternative views, he presents his interpretation clearly and pastorally.
Closing Recommendation
We gladly recommend MacArthur’s 1 Peter as a warm, faithful, and practical resource for preaching and teaching. It is especially valuable for pastors shepherding congregations through trials, discouragement, or cultural pressure. The commentary’s emphasis on hope, holiness, submission, and Christ-like endurance aligns beautifully with Peter’s message.
While best used alongside a more technical commentary for deeper study, this volume provides a clear and edifying foundation for anyone committed to teaching 1 Peter with conviction and care.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Useful supplement