Larry R. Helyer embarks on a comprehensive study of a much neglected figure in New Testament studies. Reconstructing Peter's life, theology and legacy from evidence in 1 and 2 Peter, the Gospels, Acts, Paul's letters and texts from the early church, Helyer renders a great service for future students of the New Testament.

The Knowing the Bible series is a resource designed to help Bible readers better understand and apply God’s Word. These 12-week studies lead participants through books of the Bible and are made up of four basic components: (1) reflection questions that help readers engage the text at a deeper level; (2) “Gospel Glimpses” that highlight the gospel of grace throughout the book; (3) “Whole-Bible Connections” that show how any given passage connects to the Bible’s overarching story of redemption, culminating in Christ; and (4) “Theological Soundings” that identify how historic orthodox doctrines are taught or reinforced throughout Scripture. With contributions from an array of influential pastors and church leaders, these gospel-centered studies will help Christians see and cherish the message of God’s grace on every page of the Bible. 1–2 Peter and Jude are letters written to churches experiencing various kinds of trials—false teachers, distorted views of the gospel, and harsh persecution. If 1 Peter exults, “Jesus will return!” and 2 Peter rebuffs the claim, “Jesus won’t return,” then Jude exhorts, “Jesus is just about here!” Together, these letters form a kind of manifesto of hope for living faithfully no matter how dark the times. This study highlights the importance of holding fast to the true gospel, living distinct, holy lives, and looking ahead to the return of Christ. Part of the Knowing the Bible series.

Peter David's study on I Peter is part of The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Prepared by some of the world's leading scholars, the series provides an exposition of the New Testament books that is thorough and fully abreast of modern scholarship yet faithful to the Scriptures as the infallible Word of God. Copyright © Libri GmbH. All rights reserved.

We don't approach a novel in the same way we tackle an insurance form. We don't read an bank statement in the same way that we read poetry. So we shouldn't read the 66 different books of the Bible in the same way. Story, song, law, letters and more, all make up the rich repository of writing that is God's words to us. The Gateway Seven series selects books that each represent a different kind of writing. This study of 1 Peter is a guide written to people whose context he understood well and with which we can resonate today. Through his encouragement, challenge, insight and knowledge of God - we will gain confidence to live well for Christ in our complex world, on our everyday frontlines.

The first letter written by Peter focuses on persecution and suffering of God's people caused by sources outside the church. The second letter focuses on enticements by false prophets, false teachers, and deceivers from within the church. The sufferings about which Peter warned occur simply because believers represent Christ on earth! The enticements about which Peter warned produce negative results because believers are distracted and not focused on knowing God, Jesus, or God's Word! These are wonderful letters from an apostle of Jesus Christ who lived a long, productive Christian life, after having witnessed Jesus' 31/2 year ministry!

With this groundbreaking commentary, Frey rightly draws our attention back to these texts' important role within the canon and early Christianity.--Rob Wall, Paul T. Walls Professor of Scripture and Wesleyan Studies, Seattle Pacific University and Seminary