The Upward Look
© Copyright 2009, Max D. Hutto,

“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God's elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia.”
   1 Peter 1:1 NIV ©

Peter begins by stating that he was the author of the letter. This salutation was typical of the letter writing style of that time. He identifies himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ. In the broadest sense, an “apostle” was literally one who was sent, such as a messenger, envoy, or ambassador. In its limited meaning, an “apostle” refers to one who had seen Jesus and personally was commissioned by Him to carry the gospel to all the world. Peter was writing to the believers who lived in the five provinces of Asia Minor. The believers were God’s elect, called out and chosen people, who were now citizens of heaven even while they remained as temporary residents on the earth.

Lord Jesus, thank You for the wonderful gospel message that transforms me and all believers into citizens of heaven. Help me to share Your message with others.

* (footnotes & credits)

NASB ©
The Bible quotes marked NASB are from the New American Standard Bible,
© Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977,
by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA. (used with permission)

HCSB ©
The Bible quotes marked HCSB are from the Holman Christian Standard Bible,
© Copyright 2000 by Holman Bible Publishers (used with permission).

NIV ©
The Bible quotes marked NIV are from the New International Version,
© Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, by The International Bible Society. (used with permission)