The apostle has used this term previously (1 Peter 1:15; 1 Peter 2:9) to remind his readers that their privileged identity as possessions of Jesus Christ was rooted in God himself; he “called” them to be his. But calling implies following (see Mark 1:17; Mark 2:14; Mark 8:34; Mark 10:21). Jesus suffered severely at the hand of crooked and overreaching officials for doing good, and the same would happen to those who answered the call to follow him (e.g., John 15:18–19).
21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.