She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son.
1 Peter 5:13
Peter now sends greetings from “Babylon.”
Most scholars believe he is referring to Rome, the center of political power in the ancient world. By using the name Babylon, Peter connects the experience of early Christians with the long story of God’s people living in places that do not share their faith.
Babylon represents the world’s systems, powerful, impressive, and often resistant to the ways of God.
Yet even there, the church was alive.
Peter calls the believers “chosen,” reminding them again of their identity. Even in a culture that may misunderstand or oppose them, they remain God’s people.
That reminder still matters today.
Christians have often lived in environments that feel more like Babylon than Jerusalem. Yet the calling remains the same: to live faithfully where God has placed us.
Babylon may appear strong. But it is not eternal.
God’s people endure because they belong to Him.
Father, thank You that our identity is rooted in Your choosing rather than the world’s approval. Help us live faithfully wherever You place us, even when the culture around us feels unfamiliar or resistant to Your truth.
Faithful in Babylon,
eep
