In 1:1 there is a phrase which indicates that believers have two identities, “God’s elect and strangers in the world." Believers are “scattered” across regions ruled by Rome, yet “chosen” by God. We are characterized by divine blessing (new birth, living hope, a glorious inheritance) and dismissed by the world. The opening verses of our letter call on us to understand these dual identities and to give allegiance to the voice of God.