First Peter addresses Christians scattered through Asia Minor and facing hostility for their faith. This volume works through the living hope secured by Christ's resurrection, the call to holiness and to love, the identity of the church as a chosen people and holy priesthood, submission within the state and the household, the example of Christ who suffered without retaliating, and the charge to elders to shepherd willingly.

Each volume in the MacArthur New Testament Commentary works verse by verse through the Greek text, explains the passage in its context, and presents its theology with precision, in the service of expository preaching rather than academic debate. The series is written for pastors preparing sermons, teachers preparing lessons, and any believer willing to study carefully, and it is the fruit of more than five decades of pulpit ministry at Grace Community Church.