1 Peter

1 Peter is written to communities scattered across Asia Minor facing social hostility — not necessarily official persecution, but exclusion, slander and loss of status. The letter calls them "sojourners of the dispersion" and opens with a burst of hope: an incorruptible inheritance kept in heaven. The practical counsel is striking: answer evil with good, keep conduct that contradicts the accusations, always be ready to give a reason for the hope in you, with gentleness and respect. Here is the most-read verse about anxiety after Philippians 4: "casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you".