Journal: Detroit Baptist Seminary Journal
Volume: DBSJ 27:1 (NA 2022)
Article: Rome, Caesar, And The Historical Setting Of 1 Peter
Author: Timothy E. Miller

DBSJ 27 (2022) p. 3

Rome, Caesar, And The Historical Setting Of 1 Peter

Timothy Miller1

A persistent debate in the study of 1 Peter has been the nature of persecution described in the letter. Two approaches have dominated the topic. One classic approach suggests that the persecution was widespread, persistent, and official (i.e., persecution by a governmental entity).2 The recent consensus is that the persecution was local, sporadic, and unofficial (i.e., persecution deriving from the social community).3

The present article argues for a median approach, which suggests the persecution was widespread, sporadic, and socio-political (i.e., accusations by the populace could lead to official persecution).4 There are both exegetical and historical reasons to maintain each of these points. We will look first to the historical reasons by examining the background of Anatolia and then the background of the recipients. It will be argued that the religious milieu in which the Anatolian residents found themselves provides sufficient explanation for the type of persecution found in the text. An exegetical analysis of some of the key passages will then corroborate that this historical analysis is consistent with the experience of the readers.

Historical Background Of Anatolia

Peter’s readers were scattered throughout Anatolia (1:1). Though the five regions Peter was writing to were diverse in many ways, they all

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shared the experience of being under Roman rule. The various locales either peacefully surrendered to Rome or were annexed militarily.5 For generations, the region had politically switched hands (from the Persians to the Greeks and then to the Romans). A definitive shift took place with the rule of Augustus, the first Roman emperor (27 b.c.–14 a.d.). During his reign, Anatolia was divided into various provinces, with Roman governors stationed in each.6

Wherever Rome went, it brought the Imperial Cult with it.7 Indeed as Garnsey and Sailer say, “Rome’s main export to the empire was the cult of the emperors.”8 This is especially the case in Anatolia, where the Imperial Cult was established early and took deep roots.You must have a subscription and be logged in to read the entire article.
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