The main body of Peter’s letter is 1 Peter 2:11 – 4:11, with its focus on living as sojourners and exiles in this world. Such living invariably resulted in suffering, even as Christ suffered and so set an example as to how Christians ought to endure their suffering. In the present section, Peter opens a new angle on the subject of suffering, that is, what the advantage (or benefit) of suffering might be.
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.