Key-word, “Precious;” Key-text, 1 Peter 2:7.-These epistles were addressed “to the elect pilgrims of the dispersion,” i. e., not to the Gentile churches, nor to the Hebrews who still clung to the Holy City and its temple; but to those who had renounced Judaism for Christ and the earthly Canaan for the Paradise on high. Paul went to the Gentiles westward, Peter to the scattered tribes eastward. (See Galatians 2:9.) These letters are meant to comfort these Hebrew converts under the approach or outburst of persecutions, help them to a godly life in this trial and test of faith among evil men, and exhibit the government of God toward them and over the world. [p. 136] HBS 45.3