1Pe 2:13-3:12
INTRODUCTION: Peter develops in great detail an aspect of a holy life that Paul only mentioned: living in willing submission within the framework of authorities that exist in society. At first, it seems peculiar to relate this to holiness. But, as we trace Peter's argument, we will see that the relationship between holiness and submission does exist in God's eyes.
Man's authority (1Pe 2:13-17).
A citizen should submit to his government.
Jesus said “give to Caesar what is Caesar’s” (Matthew 22:21).
Obviously, Peter was not saying that we should compromise our beliefs in our submission to government. (Acts 5:29)
Why should we submit to the authority of government?
A. God has appointed them—“sent by him” (v. 14).
B. It is the will of God (v. 15).
Why does God want us to submit to government? It is a good testimony to the unsaved.
C. We are God’s slaves (v. 16).
Unjust authorities (1Pe 2:18-25).
What if people in authority treat us unjustly?
The Christian's call to a life of submission is not conditional. Another person's failure to live God's way does not release us.
Consider what Christ endured (3:21-25).
Husbands and wives (1Pe 3:1-7).
A. It is voluntary.
B. It is a good testimony to an unsaved husband.
C. Husbands are to be submissive for the good of the marriage (3:7)
The husband should honor his wife because . . .
A. Husbands and wives are different.
B. Husbands and wives are equal.
C. His prayers depend on it.
Attitude toward suffering for good (1Pe 3:8-12).
Every Christian should be submissive to other Christians (3:8-12).
1. Strive for unity—“be ye all of one mind” (3:8).
2. Sympathize with one another—“having compassion one of another” (3:8).
3. Love one another—“love as brethren” (3:8).
4. Watch your reactions—“Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing” (3:9).
5. Be careful with your words—“let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile” (3:10).
6. Seek peace (3:11).
CONCLUSION
Every human society has its share of evil. Each of us who are hurt or mistreated by the system might easily be drawn into endless crusades. It is not that we are to compromise with evil or fail to work for social change. However, we are never to be drawn away from the first calling of holiness: to live God's love. So Peter's concern is that unjust treatment never tempts us to return evil for evil, and forsake our commitment to good.
Why should we be submissive Christians?
1. It is a good testimony to the unsaved (other citizens, employers, husbands).
2. It pleases God.
3. It makes our relationships better.
4. It affects our prayers.
Our submission to one another actually shows our submission to God.
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