Peter writes this letter to offer gospel-centered counsel and care to followers of Jesus scattered all over Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) who are facing political, social and religious persecution. Peter's letter transcends it's early recipients and offers gospel-centered counsel, care and encouragement for today's followers of Jesus scattered all over the world facing political, social and religious hostility. So let's "LEAN IN"!

Political and social persecution and hostility by the Roman Empire towards followers of Jesus.

Faith in Jesus is the anchor for authentic Christ centered living in the midst of the good, the bad, and the ugly.

- God's initiative for our lives gives us a new identity and the most priceless value.

- Peter calls us to "lean in" to understand who we are because of God's grace.

- There is a dawn before the day.

- The grace of God is not the removal of problems, but the strength to stand against the problems.

Romans 12:12 reminds us to:

Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.

- The right perspective through suffering authenticates faith.