OHBC Bible Study: 1 Peter 5:8-14

Though believers should trust in God, they should be vigilant and on guard against Satan's attacks. In the closing verses of chapter five, Peter warns and exhorts believers to stand firm in the grace of God during difficult days of suffering and tribulation. In doing so, Peter sounds the battle alarm against Satan's attacks (1 Peter 5:8-14). Peter establishes a military stance against the believers’ spiritual opponent, who is planning his evil strategy behind fiery ordeals (v. 8). He tells the soldiers of Christ how the enemy can be defeated (v. 9). Peter reminds us that the cosmic conflict will come to an end. God’s people will emerge victorious (vv. 10-11). In his conclusion (vv. 12-14), Peter acknowledges those who contributed to advancing the gospel to the glory of God.

BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE:

I. Watch and Resist Our Adversary, the Devil (1 Peter 5:8-9)

A. Peter calls Satan our “adversary, the devil.” The word “adversary” means “one who accuses in court. The word “devil” means “a slanderer.”  And because he is on the prowl like a lion hunting for prey to devour, we must be “sober-minded” and remain “watchful” (ESV).

B. Satan’s primary purpose is to destroy God’s people—our testimony, our hope, our holiness, and, if possible, our lives. We must never underestimate Satan’s ability to outwit, deceive, and attack us.
 
C. What should we do when attacked by Satan? Peter says, “Resist him, firm in your faith” (v. 9a). The word “resist” (anthistēmi) means to “stand against” or “oppose.” We do not stand against Satan with our abilities but with an unshakeable faith in our all-powerful God (Eph 6:10-11; Jas 4:7-8).

D. Peter adds another source of strength: confidence in knowing that we are not fighting alone (v. 9b). There is strength in being a part of a caring and praying community.

II. Sustained by God’s Grace (1 Peter 5:10-11)

A. Peter records the closing benediction and doxology in 1 Peter 5:10-11. He makes it clear that Christian suffering is not a conflict with Satan because we have a divine ally—God’s grace is sufficient for faithful Christians in a hostile world.

B. As we go through the necessary fiery ordeal that God allows to strengthen, refine, and mature us, we can continue to have a living hope because of four unforgettable truths

1. Our suffering is only for “a little while” (v. 10a).
2. We are accompanied by God’s grace (v. 10b).
3. Despite Satan's pursuit, God has a purpose for believers (v. 10c).
4. God is always in control (v. 11).

C. God has the power to help us endure whatever suffering He allows us to experience (1 Cor 10:13). Peter concluded this body of the letter with a statement about God’s sufficiency with another benediction (cf. 1 Pet 4:11).

III. Final Remarks from God’s Faithful Servant (1 Peter 5:12-14)

A. Peter reminds believers that suffering is usually timely and necessary.

B. The grammar, syntax, and vocabulary immediately change. At this point in the letter, Peter takes the pen and adds a distinctive touch of gratitude to a few of his companions in ministry. “Silvanus” is the Roman form of the Greek name “Silas.”

C. Peter’s final lines reaffirm the overall exhortation. We must stand firm in God's grace because we have faith in a trustworthy God (v. 12). Peter says that he had written to declare the truth of God’s abundant grace.

D. In verse 13, Peter’s “at Babylon” reference probably refers to Rome. Remember, the believers were being persecuted throughout Rome during the time of this letter. Therefore, when secrecy was necessary, believers referred to Rome as Babylon. Peter uses the symbolic name Babylon to close his letter.

E. In verse 13, Peter’s “at Babylon” reference probably refers to Rome. Remember, the believers were being persecuted throughout Rome during the time of this letter. Therefore, when secrecy was necessary, believers referred to Rome as Babylon. Peter uses the symbolic name Babylon to close his letter.

F. Peter emphasizes two closing points in verse 14.

1. Peter reminded the believers to encourage others by expressing oneness and brotherly love. [Note: In Peter’s culture, “a kiss” was a common way to express brotherly love publicly (cf. Rom 16:16; 1 Cor 16:20; 2 Cor 13:12; 1 Thess 5:26). This expression of unity and brotherly love is still practiced in many parts of the world today. 
2. Peter gives a benediction of peace. Amid persecution, Peter prayed that his readers might experience God’s surpassing “peace” (Phil 4:6-7). “Peace” expresses the common Jewish blessing: Shalom.

Conclusion:

Looking back at Peter’s letter, we see connecting themes of love, unity, peace, faith, grace, and living hope. Peter ends his letter with words of unity, love, and peace, which marks Christ’s presence and power in the church. Peter discovers that God’s grace is sufficient for him, and he wants all believers to know that God’s grace will also sustain them.