Peter has written his letter by a man named Silvanus. He identified him as a faithful brother and identifies the writing as a brief exhortation. It is also a testimony of the true grace of God in which these Jewish Christians stand. As he finishes his letter, he exhorts the elders, the younger people and all others before finalizing his greetings.
The Elders
When Peter addresses the elders, we see his humility. He writes not just as a fellow laborer, but as a witness to the sufferings of Jesus who along with them is a partaker of the glory that will be revealed. He says, “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you.” Then he describes the way to do it. Be overseers not because you have to and not to make dishonest money. Rather than lord over them, be an example so when the Chief Shepherd returns you will receive a crown of glory that never fades away.
The Younger People
To the younger people, Peter says be submissive to your elders. Then he clarifies that he is talking to all of them. “Be clothed with humility,” He quotes Solomon, “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.” “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God.” When the time is right He will exalt you. Take all your worries to Him. God cares for you.
All Others
But look out. None of his readers are immune. You have an adversary. Like a lion, he prowls about looking for someone to devour. If you are sober and watchful, you can resist him by standing firm in your faith. You are not alone in your sufferings. Your brothers throughout the world experience the same things. To this he adds a prayer, “But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered for awhile, perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever.”
He then signs off with a blessing of peace. As he finished this first letter, he exhorts the elders, the younger people and all others before finalizing his greetings.
