The basic theme is to provide encouragement now that persecution seems imminent. Even in so brief a letter persecution is mentioned at least 4 times. One element of encouragement is the promise of the return of Christ. The purpose is to keep hope alive at any cost, but it is hope which only God can vindicate. Liturgically, the book is a manual of instruction for new converts. Their new life through baptism is a radical departure from the old patterns of conduct. The total purpose of the letter involves the certain grace of God as available for any need.
The basic theme is to provide encouragement now that persecution seems imminent. Even in so brief a letter persecution is mentioned at least 4 times. One element of encouragement is the promise of the return of Christ. The purpose is to keep hope alive at any cost, but it is hope which only God can vindicate. Liturgically, the book is a manual of instruction for new converts. Their new life through baptism is a radical departure from the old patterns of conduct. The total purpose of the letter involves the certain grace of God as available for any need.
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