We have said that much in the letter could have been instruction given to candidates for baptism. Baptism is understood as new birth (1:3, I: 23, 2:2), related to the Resurrection of Christ (1:3), giving the great hope of salvation at the end of time (1:3-5) for which hope Christians should be glad (1:6). Through baptism Christians are made members of the new people of God (2 :9-10) but they have no permanent home in this world (2: 11). Peter understands baptism to have been foreshadowed in the Flood; the flood waters saved Noah and his family when their boat floated but the earth was covered by the waters (3:20). On the part of the believer acceptance of baptism is a pledge of faithfulness to God taken through the power of the risen Christ (3 :21). Baptism must not be thought of as an external washing (3 :21). Teaching about endurance in the face of suffering and hostility, and the need for holy living in all circumstances, is linked with the teaching about baptism. The one baptized has entered a new life, with new responsibilities and challenges as well as blessings. Acceptance of baptism can provoke hostility from those opposed to the Gospel.

·