1 Peter 5:13

1 Peter 5:13, in plain English

The church in Babylon (likely Rome, code-named) joins with Peter in sending you greetings, and so does Mark, Peter's spiritual son.

Why it's here

Peter includes community greetings to remind these scattered, persecuted believers that they're not alone. The church in Rome—the heart of their opposition—is with them. Mark, who abandoned Paul early on but was restored, is a living example of redemption and perseverance. These aren't random names; they're meant to encourage.

Who's speaking

Peter, relaying greetings from his community

Where it sits in the story

Mark connects to his own restoration—he failed, but he was restored and became useful. For believers facing their own failures and struggles, that's meaningful. We know from other letters that Mark became invaluable.

The scholarly reading

The church in Babylon and Peter's son Mark send their greetings to the recipients, extending Christian fellowship across distance.

Language and setting

'Babylon' almost certainly refers to Rome, using the apocalyptic code name common in early Christianity (cf. Revelation 17-18). This suggests Peter is writing from the Roman capital, adding weight to the patristic tradition that Peter ministered and died in Rome. The mention of 'Mark' (son or disciple, the terminology is ambiguous) likely refers to John Mark, traditionally associated with the Gospel of Mark. This gesture of including greetings personalizes the letter and connects the recipients to the broader apostolic network. The inclusion of 'the church in Babylon' emphasizes that persecuted communities are not isolated but part of a worldwide fellowship sharing common trials.

Voice

Peter, conveying community greetings

Significance

This verse anchors 1 Peter in apostolic networks and suggests the historical context of the early church's expansion beyond Jerusalem into major imperial centers. The reference to Mark potentially connects this letter to Gospel tradition, suggesting the apostolic witness continues through multiple forms of testimony.

11To Him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

12Through Silvanus, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.

13The church in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, as does my son Mark.

14Greet one another with a kiss of love.

Read all of 1 Peter 5 — Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be sober-minded. The devil prowls like a roaring lion. Stand firm — and the God of all grace will restore you.