1 Peter

Summary

We find Scot McKnight’s 1 Peter in the NIV Application Commentary series a strong help for reading Peter’s letter as pastoral realism for exiles. He keeps the tone of the epistle clear, steady hope, holy living, and patient endurance under pressure, and he repeatedly shows how Peter’s exhortations rest on the finished work of Christ.

The volume’s structure serves the letter’s purpose. We are guided through the original setting and the logic of the text, then helped to think carefully about how the same gospel shapes congregations living with marginalisation, suffering, and moral confusion.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this commentary when we want to preach 1 Peter with both tenderness and backbone. McKnight helps us avoid vague encouragement and instead press home Peter’s concrete calls to holiness, submission, and courage, rooted in the living hope of the resurrection.

We also benefit from his careful work on key themes, identity as God’s people, suffering as a refining fire, and the church as a holy priesthood. The bridges into contemporary life are usually thoughtful and pastorally alert.

For those teaching through 1 Peter, this is a steady mid level companion that helps us keep the letter’s gospel centre, and apply it with wisdom to real congregational pressures.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this as a strong mid level commentary for preaching and teaching 1 Peter. It is especially helpful when we need support in moving from the passage’s meaning to faithful application in settings of stress, opposition, or cultural drift.

As pastoral next steps, we can visit the Bible Book Overview, browse Top Recommendations, and use the Reformed Commentary Index to build a wiser working library.