Edwina Murphy: Fiery Trials and Salvific Water: Cyprian’s Use of 1 Peter

Cyprian was bishop of Carthage at a time when the church was facing opposition and persecution. He encouraged his flock to persevere in the faith by drawing on Scripture, so it is not surprising that he makes use of 1 Peter in this regard. Cyprian particularly focuses on Christ’s innocent suffering as a model for believers, who should follow in his footsteps, as well as drawing on the letter for a number of Christological statements. In terms of maintaining discipline, Cyprian applies 1 Peter’s directions on how women should dress to those in his congregation, particularly virgins. And given his focus on the unity of the church and its one baptism, he does not miss the opportunity to exploit the image of Noah’s ark. Finally, an interesting omission: although 1 Pet 4:8, “Love covers a multitude of sins,” is often used in the early church with regard to almsgiving, Cyprian never quotes this verse.