She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son.
English Standard Version (ESV)
It's easy to breeze past, but the mention of "Babylon" here is a deliberate coded message. Peter isn't in the literal ancient city of Babylon; he's using it as a symbol for the oppressive, pagan Roman Empire where he and his readers are likely living, making this a secret greeting from the heart of the "enemy" world.
She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Peter is writing to encourage believers facing persecution, reminding them to live faithfully under suffering and to rely on God's strength. He closes by sending greetings from his companions, offering a personal touch of community and unity in their shared faith as they navigate these difficult times. This final section emphasizes that even in isolation, believers are connected through Christ and supported by those around them.
Why would Peter refer to 'Babylon' when writing to believers? It wasn't just a city; it was a potent symbol.
In Peter's day, the literal city of Babylon was in ruins. So, when Peter mentions 'She who is at Babylon,' he's using a code word.
A World of Opposition
'Babylon' had become a symbol for the oppressive, anti-God world system. It represented the empire that had once exiled God's people and continued to exert its influence – a place of spiritual exile and danger for Christians.
Chosen Despite the Place
Yet, Peter calls this community 'likewise chosen.' This highlights that God's people are scattered throughout the world, often in places that feel hostile or pagan, but their identity as God's chosen people transcends their location. They are 'in' the world but not 'of' it.
Who is this 'Mark,' and why is his presence with Peter significant?
The 'Mark' mentioned here is almost certainly John Mark, the traditional author of the second Gospel. His connection to Peter is deep and unfolds throughout the New Testament.
From Troubled Past to Faithful Ministry
Mark had a somewhat rocky start in ministry. He traveled with Paul and Barnabas but left early on one missionary journey (Acts 13:13). Barnabas, his relative, later took him to Cyprus, and it seems Peter also ministered there, as indicated in his first epistle (1 Peter 5:13).
Ask a follow-up
A Bond of Discipleship
Peter calls Mark 'my son.' This isn't a biological father-son relationship, but a spiritual one. Peter likely led Mark to faith or discipled him, fostering a strong, paternal bond. Mark's presence with Peter in 'Babylon' shows his continued faithfulness and importance as a minister and companion.
Understand the original words
eklektos · Greek Adjective
The state of being selected by God for salvation and service. It reflects God's sovereign initiative in choosing His people before the foundation of the world, creating a special relationship between Him and the elect.
The mention of 'Babylon' is widely understood as a code word for Rome, where Peter was likely imprisoned and writing from during a time of intense persecution under Nero. This context highlights the courage and faith of the early church facing immense pressure.
c. AD 41
Herod Agrippa I Appointed King
Herod Agrippa I, grandson of Herod the Great, was granted rule over Judea. This period saw a complex relationship between Jewish leaders and Roman authorities, impacting early Christian communities.
c. AD 44
Death of Herod Agrippa I
Agrippa's sudden death led to Judea reverting to direct Roman procuratorial rule, often marked by increased tension and unrest.
c. AD 45-50
Paul's First Missionary Journey
The Apostle Paul, often accompanied by Barnabas and sometimes Mark, traveled through Asia Minor and beyond, establishing churches and facing significant opposition. Mark's presence on these journeys is documented.
c. AD 50
Council of Jerusalem
A pivotal meeting where early church leaders debated the inclusion of Gentiles. Peter and Paul were key figures, and the decisions made here shaped the future direction of the church.
c. AD 60-62— this verse
Paul's Imprisonment in Rome
The Apostle Paul was under house arrest in Rome. During this time, he wrote several epistles, and figures like Mark and Luke were often with him, serving as companions and helpers.
c. AD 64
Great Fire of Rome and Persecution
Emperor Nero blamed Christians for the fire, initiating the first major Roman persecution of Christians. This created an atmosphere of fear and urgency for believers throughout the empire.
c. AD 65-67
Peter's Ministry and Martyrdom
Tradition holds that Peter, alongside Paul, ministered in Rome and eventually suffered martyrdom there during Nero's reign. His letter is often seen as a message of encouragement to persecuted believers.
This passage mentions Mark (John Mark), who is likely the same person, visiting Peter at the house of Mary, mother of John.
Acts 12:25This verse shows Mark accompanying Barnabas and Saul (Paul) on their missionary journey, indicating his involvement with early Christian leaders.
Colossians 4:10Paul sends greetings from Mark, noting that he is the cousin of Barnabas, further establishing his connections within the early church.
2 Timothy 4:11Even later in his life, Paul asks Timothy to bring Mark with him, emphasizing Mark's value and renewed usefulness to ministry.
It's easy to breeze past, but the mention of "Babylon" here is a deliberate coded message. Peter isn't in the literal ancient city of Babylon; he's using it as a symbol for the oppressive, pagan Roman Empire where he and his readers are likely living, making this a secret greeting from the heart of the "enemy" world.
Peter is writing to encourage believers facing persecution, reminding them to live faithfully under suffering and to rely on God's strength. He closes by sending greetings from his companions, offering a personal touch of community and unity in their shared faith as they navigate these difficult times. This final section emphasizes that even in isolation, believers are connected through Christ and supported by those around them.
Peter is writing to encourage believers facing persecution, reminding them to live faithfully under suffering and to rely on God's strength. He closes by sending greetings from his companions, offering a personal touch of community and unity in their shared faith as they navigate these difficult times. This final section emphasizes that even in isolation, believers are connected through Christ and supported by those around them.
"She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son." — It's easy to breeze past, but the mention of "Babylon" here is a deliberate coded message. Peter isn't in the literal ancient city of Babylon; he's using it as a symbol for the oppressive, pagan Roma…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026