authority

Following Jesus’ Example of Humility and Love

My moral conscience is not the line I use to make decisions, it is what guides me in applying the knowledge of God’s teaching and commands.

Our study on 1Peter 2:19 must be built upon the previous truths in 1 Peter 2. Verse 18 reads, “Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable.

Why? Our answer follows in verse 19 –

1 Peter 2:19 For this finds favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a man bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly.

Look carefully at the words above, “if for the sake of conscience toward God”. This means I am willing to seek righteousness, according to Jesus’ example of humility and love, because I want to be obedient to God. My ultimate loyalty is to follow His commands and act in a manner worthy of His calling. This is not “I am going to stand my ground to defend my beliefs”. It is, “I am determined to follow God’s teaching no matter what”. We are not submissive to authority because we agree, or we support their values. We are submissive to authority because it pleases God when we are obedient to those in positions of authority.

As a people group, we are quick to pursue a cause we believe in. We are free in this country to demonstrate that cause and give reason for our commitment. Sometimes these special interests are based on what we think is best and they have no moral right or wrong attached to them such as remaining on daylight savings time or where street signs should be placed. We have been given a conscience to help guide our thinking.

A believer has been given the Holy Spirit to guide them in understanding and truth based upon God’s word. Conscience means with knowledge. In this case it is with the knowledge of God’s truths upon which my speech, thoughts, and actions are based. My decisions, actions, and thoughts are not regulated by my conscience; rather, my conscience is regulated by God’s truths. In other words, I cannot form my opinion and then find support in God’s word. I am required to know God’s word and let that knowledge form my beliefs. Relying upon the Holy Spirit will affect our message and representation of God.

John 14:16-17 "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; [that is] the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not behold Him or know Him, [but] you know Him because He abides with you, and will be in you.

John 14:26 "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.

John 16:13 "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.

Paul was careful to explain to the Corinthian church the importance of following truth given by the Spirit working in a believer’s life, rather than wisdom based on the thinking of man.

1Corinthians 2:12-13 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things freely given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual [thoughts] with spiritual [words.] Continue reading through the end of the chapter.

Notice the words in the preceding verse, 1Peter 2:15, “he who is spiritual appraises all things”. This means to scrutinize, and implies that we investigate, ask questions, discern, examine, and search in order to seek to understand God’s ways. The only way this is possible is by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life. There is diligence expected on our part to study to be certain we are following God’s truths and not our own desires. Think of having self-control. This is the act of restraining my behavior. I might want to respond harshly to those who have treated others or myself unfairly. I might be ‘right’ in my assessment of another’s bullying or unfair treatment, but this never justifies marring my witness of Christ.

We are not going to find a directive on what kind of flowers to plant or if we should raise chickens! However, we do need to be certain than in those things where our witness of God is affected and our obedience to Him is in question, we are careful to seek His guidance. This means we are not determined to find a way to follow our own thoughts but instead we are determined to understand God’s direction. According to 1 Peter 2:18, we are to be willing to submit to others, even if it is difficult or I do not agree or I am treated poorly, because it is what Jesus did and it honors God. I may be right in thinking something is unfair or could be done more effectively but I am still to submit because it is God’s command. This is a fitting example of ‘I might want to act one way, but God directs me to act another way’. Now, instead of being a question of understanding or agreement, it is a question of obedience and honor to God.

Our perfect example is to follow is Jesus. The words he spoke to His Father describe the heart attitude we should embrace. “Not my will, but Thine, be done”, (Luke 22:42). Let’s break some of the words down in 1 Peter 2:19. I think it will give us a clearer understanding.

The first phrase is “For this [finds] favor”. Favor is translated from the Greek word charis, meaning graciousness, of manner or act. Especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude.

Read again 1 Peter 2:18, Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable – (19) For this finds favor … Because this is grace. “This is graceful indeed” (Doddridge). Meaning it is acceptable to God. Because of God – and His work in our lives – because we have been given the Holy Spirit to help us understand God’s truths, we can choose what is right.

Our sole/soul purpose is to glorify God out of gratitude for who He is and what He has done. Think! Who or what do your thoughts and actions point towards? How can we know what glorifies God? The answer is simple to express with words, right? However, to fulfill this charge in our actions, it takes a determination to respond in humility. We seek truth from His word. God has graciously given us a manual for living, a testimony of His great love for us. Yet, however clear the answer may be to what glorifies God, putting His truths into practice, having them embedded in our soul, takes concerted desire and effort.

We glorify God by acknowledging who He is, His greatness, His power, all He has done and all He will do.

1 Chronicles 16:23-36

We glorify God by honoring Him with our life, in everything we do.

1 Corinthians 10:31-33; Psalm 37:31

We glorify God through submitting to His commands in humility of heart.

John 14:15

We glorify God with our thoughts.

Psalm 1; Psalm 119:11

In what other ways can you glorify God?

We certainly should not look to be persecuted or cause our own mishaps, yet if honoring God means being submissive to those who treat us unfairly, then we can choose to endure discomfort and grief.

Matthew 5:10 "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Romans 13:5 Wherefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake.

We hear the word conscience used frequently. Choosing to do or not to do something is often supported by the idea of following your moral conscience. In Romans 13:5 above, the word conscience, suneidesis, means co-perception or moral consciousness. It is a form of the word suneido, meaning to see completely, to understand or become aware, to be informed of, and to know.

This bears repeating, we need to be careful that our moral conscience is regulated and supported by the truths in God’s word. My conscience needs to be directed by the knowledge of God. I cannot and should not decide for someone else what their conscience or convictions should be. I do need to encourage and uplift others as they seek to determine what God would have them do in areas that may allow for different interpretation. However, this particular verse in 1 Peter 2:19 is clear –

I am to be in subjection to authority not only because there will be consequences from authority if I choose to disregard them, but most importantly because I have the freedom to obey God, and I am expected as God’s child, to act according to the knowledge God has given me in His word.

Choosing what is right because God says so always trumps feelings based on man’s knowledge and keeps us from misguided interpretation. My moral conscience is not the line I use to make decisions, it is what guides me in applying the knowledge of God’s teaching and commands. Understanding Biblical truth does not require formal scholastic education in Biblical studies. It does require a humble heart which seeks to know God, is filled with His Holy Spirit, and has a desire to apply His precepts.

You can immediately understand the need for each individual to seek guidance from the one true source – God – rather than follow what sounds right or what is thought or even what someone else may think. Even a highly respected person can be wrong in their personal conviction; God’s principles and commands, however, are always right. God has given man a conscience to help us determine right from wrong. As a follower of Christ, the basis for my convictions should be the Bible.

1Peter 3:14-16 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always [being] ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

Instead of choosing to ‘suffer’ the loss of our ‘rights’, we can choose to focus on the opportunities to represent Christ and share the Gospel in every situation. We are to be careful not to bring our own suffering upon ourselves because of unrighteous behavior. Read the above scripture again. Is it my responsibility to defend the church or to defend the Gospel? Defense means to give answers. Are you equipped to give answers for what you believe? Is it possible that we find ourselves in conflict with others because we are seeking to prove our thoughts more than God’s teaching?

The motivation for our action is to honor God. Self, other than the witness of God in my life, should never be in the picture.

1 Peter 4:14-16 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. By no means let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if [anyone suffers] as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God.

Read Adam Clarke’s Commentary on 1 Peter 2:19. “For this is thankworthy. If, in a conscientious discharge of your duty, you suffer evil, this is in the sight of God thankworthy, pleasing, and proper; it shows that you prefer his authority to your own ease, peace, and emolument; it shows also, as Dr. Macknight has well observed, that they considered their obligation to relative duties not to depend on the character of the person to whom they were to be performed, nor on their performing the duties they owed to their servants, but on the unalterable relations of things established by God.”

“To suffer meekly, and without blame, and to do this out of a sense of the resignation due to the will of God, is a virtue which He kindly accepts, and will not fail to reward”, Dean Stanhope 1800’s.

If for the sake of conscience toward God. Meaning, “consciousness of God”: from a conscientious regard to God, more than to men. (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary)

Our conscious toward God is led out of our respect for God and a sincere desire to please Him – it is based upon His commands and our knowledge of them. “But the conscience is not an infallible guide and acts according to the light that it has. The conscience can be contaminated”, Robertson’s NT Word Pictures.

2 Corinthians 1:12 For our proud confidence is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially toward you.

Hebrews 10:22 let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled [clean] from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

A man bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly.

Read how David responds to unjust treatment.

Psalm 119:86-87 All Thy commandments are faithful; they have persecuted me with a lie; help me! They almost destroyed me on earth, but as for me, I did not forsake Thy precepts.

Psalm 119:23 Even though princes sit and talk against me, Thy servant meditates on Thy statutes.

Psalm 119:78 May the arrogant be ashamed, for they subvert me with a lie; [but] I shall meditate on Thy precepts.

What is the example set before us when we feel we are treated unfairly?

2Timothy 1:12 For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.

I want God’s divine truth to regulate my conscience. I want His divine influence to control my heart. Then my actions will be guided by His will and be a reflection of His saving grace in my life.

Is It About Me or About My Savior?

In all things we are to glorify God. In all relationships we are to glorify God,
looking to Jesus’ example of humility and righteousness.

1Peter 2:18 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable.

What do you read in the above verse?

Peter now moves to the duty of servants to their masters. The words in this verse are straight forward, meaning when you read them, they say what they mean. You may have heard this often-used phrase, ‘If the plain literal words make good sense, seek no other sense’. Sometimes a problem arises because we do not like the plain literal sense of the message we are given. Think how often you have told your child to do something and the answer you get is ‘but what about …’. Most of us are guilty of this same response to direction. We think of a way out or a way around or simply a way to change the instruction we do not like.

In our culture today, we would not necessarily describe relationships using the terms servant and master. The word servant in this verse refers mainly to household servants or domestic servants which lived in the same house. This was common at that time and the command would apply whether they were hired or whether they were owned as slaves. In our culture and practices today, we could apply this command to anyone in a paid position or under the service of one in authority. This could even be a worker you have hired to do a specific job. For instance, we have in the past had someone who was paid to work on the yard or help with something inside our home. The expectation was that this person would receive a certain amount of money for a specific amount of work. Fulfilling our request did not matter if the worker agreed with our plan. It is quite possible they had a better way of doing something – what mattered was they did what was expected. Think of this example – when you were a student, specific goals were set for you to accomplish. It did not matter if you liked or even agreed with the course material; it did not matter if you felt you already knew the information or had a better way of accomplishing the same task, if you wanted to pass the class you adhered to the direction given by your professor.

Under most circumstances, when we find ourselves under the obligation to act in obedience, it will be toward those who are good and gentle, and reasonable and kind. For instance, I was blessed to develop a friendship with a woman who helped in our home when my mother-in-law lived with us. Our families became involved with one another, and she eventually accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior in my kitchen!

Yet, what do we do when we are asked to submit to those who are unreasonable? Well, as long as we are not asked to sin, then it is not important whether we think something is unnecessary or a waste of time, or foolish. If my employer requests that I draw a red line exactly down the center of each piece of paper that filters across my desk, then however ridiculous I think it might be, I can choose to do it because they are in charge. I might think their request is unreasonable and they are crazy, however their position requires my respect and submission. Not only might I get fired if I don’t submit, but I will also loose the opportunity to build relationships with the hope of sharing Christ.

The question that pops in my mind is, “Am I willing to deny myself for my Savior”? Read the words of Paul in Philippians 2:5-8, Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, [and] being made in the like ness of men, and being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. If anyone ever had the right to stand His ground, it was Jesus! But He chose not to do so in order to please His Father and redeem your soul. His example is what we are to follow.

It is difficult to choose to give up what we deem our ‘rights’. We do not like others pressing in upon our space or crowding our ‘freedoms’. We are quick to draw lines in the sand. Our feelings get hurt or we concentrate on the ‘unfairness’ of a situation. Consider what happens when a child comes home from school and is hurt because someone was ‘mean’ to them. Do they stop going to school, or quit? Of course not! Hopefully, they are encouraged to be kind and carry on in spite of those who aren’t nice. Our thinking can focus on ourselves and an attitude of “you can only go so far until I will become insistent on my views’. However we need to be certain our views and where we choose to be immovable is according to the truth and example we have in God’s word. If I choose to take a stand for my own convenience or my opinion or because it fits what I think, without proof for my action from Truth, then I am serving myself under the pretense of serving God. I cannot form my opinion and then find the scriptures that will support my thinking; rather, I must go to the scriptures and ask God to give me understanding of His word. Then with that understanding of His truth, I am led what to think. We need to be careful! Words can sound compelling, and we are easily led by what sounds righteous rather than what is truth and fact in scripture. Are the decisions you make based on the word or on feelings.

In any relationship we find ourselves, we must remember we are Christians, ultimately representing God and serving Him. To those who are our masters (rulers, employers, teachers, and all those in authority over us), we are to submit. Obedience is a choice we are able to make because Christ has changed our heart and our desire is to please Him and follow His example. If you find yourself thinking ‘you’ve had enough’ and you ‘can no longer take it’, think back to Christ. I am personally so thankful He never gave up on the human race.

1Timothy 6:1 Let all who are under the yoke as slaves regard their own masters as worthy of all honor so that the name of God and [our] doctrine may not be spoken against.

Titus 2:9-10 [Urge] bondslaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect.

Go back for a moment to the reason this letter was written. The Apostle Peter wrote this to believers who were being persecuted for their faith. Peter reminded them of God’s protection and their inheritance in heaven. They were suffering through difficulties, yet these trials were a means for the proof and strengthening of their faith in Jesus. Peter reminded them to fix their hope on the future and to act in obedience to God’s calling. They were to follow Jesus’ example of holiness. They were valuable and were to love one another remembering that their time here on earth was short. Therefore, they were to seek God’s truths so that they would mature as Christians and regard their difficulties as opportunities to glorify God. God was their secure foundation, and their purpose was to proclaim Him. They were to honor Him by keeping their behavior excellent, willingly submitting to those in authority. They had been freed from the control of sin, and now had the freedom to choose righteousness. What did this look like? By all means they were to promote peace, setting their sights on furthering the Gospel. Their freedom was not to be used to usurp authority but rather to honor God. Even when it was difficult.

Our text says, Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect. Seriously?! In our selfish and prideful thinking we can easily think that this is asking a bit too much! We are to not only submit, but we are to submit with all respect. Respect does not mean we must agree. It means we understand the position someone holds. This is difficult. However, we need to have the right attitude towards those in charge because it is what scripture teaches. In our own human weakness, this is quite impossible. Let’s remember, God is the one who has placed people exactly where He wants them for His purpose. God is the one we are honoring when we willingly yield to His perfect plan just as Christ did when He was crucified.

When we bow ourselves before God and are reminded of the sacrifice of His only Son, willingly assuming the pain of suffering and separation as our sin was atoned, we are equipped by grace to act in humility and righteousness towards others.

This gets even more difficult when we read the rest of 1 Peter 2:18. We are to be submissive to those in authority with all respect regardless if they are good and gentle or unreasonable. The overriding imperative to everyone is to act with good conduct (1Peter 2:11, 12, 13, and 16); a direct application is servants to masters. Submit with respect, if at all possible, under all circumstances. Respect is translated ‘fear’. Not necessarily because of a fear of the person themselves although in many cases they would have the authority to exercise disciplinary action, but ultimately because we fear God, (1 Peter 2:13).

Colossians 3:22 Slaves, in all things obey those who are your masters on earth, not with external service, as those who [merely] please men, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.

Ephesians 6:5-8 Slaves, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ; not by way of eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free.

Jesus was fully God and fully man while on this earth. Yet, He placed Himself in subjection to His earthly parents. Luke 2:48-51

1 Peter 3:1 says wives are to be subject to their husbands.

According to one commentary, the Jews were unwilling “to submit to any Gentile masters; and those of them who believed in Christ were by their Judaizing teachers persuaded to think that they owed no obedience to unbelieving masters”, Thomas Haweis. From the same commentary we are reminded of Jesus’ example – “leaving us an example of patience and long-suffering under all the most cruel and unjust treatment which he met with, that ye should follow his steps, and be conformed to his blessed pattern; who, grievously as he suffered, yet did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth; his bitterest enemies could not so much as fix upon him the shadow of a crime: who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; but observed an admirable silence, as the sheep before her shearers is dumb: when he suffered, he threatened not, nor discovered the least anger at his tormentors; but committed himself and his cause to him that judgeth righteously, and to whom vengeance belongeth”.

Note these questions and applications –

We look to Christ for pardon and righteousness, should we not also follow His example of patience and meekness? 
Are we desiring to receive His forgiveness and gift of eternal life but not willing to accept that in receiving His grace we must act in accordance with His commands?

 

Since we have been saved to righteousness, we are deceived if we choose to live in sin and flatter ourselves with the certain hope of eternal life in Christ. We should be encouraged to willingly accept every burden which He places in our lives.

Our sufferings or mistreatment are not an excuse for impatience or anger, however unreasonable our authorities may be.
Christ’s example not only teaches us to not lash out for ill treatment or demand the rights we wrongly claim title to – His example also teaches us to pray for the very ones who are unreasonable – He prayed for those who crucified Him.
We gain nothing from strife; contentment is found in godliness. We should not choose to give up when we feel we are treated poorly, or someone is ‘mean’ or unfair. We continue to serve – following Christ’s example.

I fear, as a people, we have claimed ‘rights’ to things which were never given to us by God. Think! What did you bring into this world? Of course the answer is nothing. The reality is we own nothing – not even our own selves. Jesus purchased our souls. God created our being.

In all things we are to glorify God. In all relationships we are to glorify God,

looking to Jesus’ example of humility and righteousness.

1 Peter 2:20-24 For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer [for it] you patiently endure it, this [finds] favor with God. For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH; and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting [Himself] to Him who judges righteously; and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.

Christ chose to endure ill-treatment, harshness, false accusations, physical pain, and ultimately spiritual separation from His Father as the sin of man was atoned. Are we more concerned about how others treat us than how we are to serve God in righteousness?

Honor – Love – Fear

The freedom we have in Christ is to be used for His service. We are no longer slaves to sin but slaves to righteousness.

Honor, love, and fear are words quite familiar to us. We use these words liberally in our conversation; we read them, and we hear them. Fictional stories are often based upon the concepts of honor, love, and fear. To show honor is acceptable, to love others is expected, even to fear God is generally accepted in our culture. Honor is given to our heads of government; this is seen in their housing, mode of transportation, and the hundreds of thousands of people who gather to see or hear them. Honor is given to those who have accomplished great feats; the Guinness Book of World Records, first published in 1955, notes the names of those who have excelled in a variety of subjects and activities. People in general would say they love others by giving to the needy and supporting different humanitarian efforts. Some individuals may adhere to the idea of a ‘higher being’ who is able to rain hail and brimstone from the heavens.

1 Peter 2:17 Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

As we dig into this verse, keep these questions in mind –

What does it mean to truly honor someone according to God’s word?

Why would we honor all men?

How do we love others beyond words or writing a check? What is ‘the brotherhood’?

What actions result from fearing God? Why would we fear Him?

Can we honor those in authority when we do not agree with them? Why should we honor those in authority?

Honor all men.

Honor, timao, means to prize, to fix a valuation upon, by implication, to revere. (Strong’s Greek Dictionary)

Honor: bestow honor upon, show respect towards, a symbol of distinction. (WordWeb)

Think of the ways you might show honor to someone. You would speak highly of them and often, you would encourage others to get to know them, you would be excited to introduce them to your friends and family. When they spoke you would give your undivided attention to their words. You would value your time with them, even protect it.

We can honor plans and events. These are the things you write on your calendar in pen instead of pencil. You have heard the phrase, ‘I’ll pencil it in’. This means that if it is convenient, the plan that is suggested will hold; however, if something else comes up, the suggested plan will be cancelled. This does not mean something is unimportant, but it does mean that it may not be as important as other things.

The opposite of honor is dishonor. This is a state of shame or disgrace. Someone who is not honorable lacks integrity.

How can we honor all men when ‘all’ men are not honorable? In general, we highly esteem men because they are God’s creation. God created all men therefore each of us should treat one another with kindness, hindering no one. All men are made in the image of God.

Genesis 1:27 And God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

You may have heard the saying, ‘treat others as you would like them to treat you’.

Matthew 7:12 “Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat them, for this is the Law and the Prophets”.

Jesus died for all men therefore, those standing next to you or before you may be fellow heirs of eternity. Because of this, each individual has personal worth. Specifically related to this verse is what is said before. In our study on 1 Peter 2:13-16, we looked at obedience and submission to those God has placed in authority over us. Positionally, those in authority deserve our honor – not because we agree – but because God has allowed them to be in that place at this time.

Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself;

“Christ has dignified our humanity by assuming it; therefore we should not dishonor, but be considerate to and honor our common humanity, even in the very humblest”, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary.

The idea of honoring all men is difficult because we readily tend to place judgment upon each other. The challenge is to show honor to all – the lowest and even, in our minds, the undeserving. Regardless of wealth, position, looks, accomplishments and so forth, we are to honor man because he is created by God. When you consider what Christ has done for you and the fact that God has chosen you to personally know Him, gratefulness born out of humility is the response.

If God can save you even in your wretched state, will He not save others? Each created individual has value.

How do we apply the command to ‘honor all men’? We willingly submit ourselves to those placed in authority. We cultivate humility in our hearts and attitudes, placing others before ourselves. Practically speaking, one of the best ways to honor others is to share the truth of the Gospel in the hopes that God would bring them to a saving knowledge of His forgiveness and grace.

How will you apply the command to honor all men?

Do you need to take a closer look at how you are treating others?

Do you choose to honor some yet not all?

When I consider personally responding to each individual as God’s creation, I am quickly reminded of their value, and this affects my response and actions – even towards those who I think make my life miserable, even towards those who I think are wrong, even towards those who I think should know better, etc., etc. It is good for us to consider the purpose for our actions, thoughts, and words before we engage them. Am I encouraging, am I seeking the welfare of others? Ask yourself this question – Who am I? The answer – nothing without Christ.

Love the brotherhood.

Your brothers and sisters in Christ, those who are likeminded, those who recognize Jesus alone as Savior, those who realize they are dependent on God’s saving grace, those who are persevering toward the same goal of God’s glory and making disciples.

Romans 12:10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;

1Peter 1:22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,

1Peter 3:8-9 To sum up, let all be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.

Let’s look closer at the above scripture to get a clearer picture of loving others.

Are you harmonious or like-minded, seeking to exist in an agreeable state or do you create conflict?

Are you sympathetic, showing compassion to others, or do you easily brush people off when their struggle doesn’t seem like a big deal in your thinking?

Are you kindhearted – sympathetic, considerate, and helpful, or are you judgmental?

Are you humble, looking upon others as worthy, holding others’ above yourself or do you run on the thought that you have it all together?

We should have a general love for all men because they are created in the image of God; we should have a specific love for those who have been adopted into the family of God. You can probably testify to a special connection with your brothers and sisters in Christ.

Love, agapaō, is the present active imperative, meaning – do it now and keep on doing it! This is not a onetime ‘I showed love to so and so today’, it is a continuous, frequent showing of care towards one another. It is not based upon feelings or circumstances but rather based on obedience in following God’s commands.

John 13:34-35 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

John 15:12 "This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.

“Love the brotherhood; as there is general respect due to all men, so there is a special love due to the brethren, to all the saints, of what nation and country soever, of what estate and condition soever, high and low, rich and poor, of what judgment and opinion soever; therefore the apostle calls upon us to love the brotherhood, the whole fraternity and society of Christians, by what unhappy means and characters of reproach soever distinguished: there is no better evidence of the life of grace in ourselves, than the love of grace in another”, William Burkitt New Testament.

Galatians 6:10 So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

How do we love the brotherhood? Follow Christ’s example of loving us. Christ loved with a sacrificial love, looking to the benefit of others rather than Himself. The verses in John chapters 13 and 15 above repeat the phrase, ‘love one another’ ‘as I have loved you’.

Philippians 2:5-8 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, [and] being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Fear God.

Be in awe of Him, give Him reverence. God is love yet He is also a righteous judge, and He will punish sin.

2Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Exodus 34:6-7 Then the LORD passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave [the guilty] unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations."

Leviticus 25:17 'So you shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God; for I am the LORD your God.

Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Fear of God will lead us to obedience. He is above all things and knows all things. Notice, the king is to be honored but in no way equal to God – God alone is to be feared.

“Fear God; with a filial fear or reverence. This command is interposed, either to show what is the true spring and fountain from which all the duties we perform to men are to proceed, viz. the fear of God, because where that doth not prevail no duty to men can be rightly performed; (they love the brotherhood best, and honour the king most, that truly fear God); or to show the due bounds of all the offices we perform to men, that nothing is to be done for them which is inconsistent with the fear of God”, Matthew Poole’s Commentary.

“Reverence God at all times with the sincerest and profoundest humility; and let a sense of the honour and favour he has conferred upon you increase, rather than diminish, that reverence”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

The command to fear God is also written in the present tense imperative. We are to keep on fearing God, just as we are to keep on honoring men and loving the brotherhood. In all things we are to show God reverence. This means we have a profound respect for Him; we are in awe of who He is, what He has done, what He says, and what He can and will do. God is immutable. His value will never diminish, and His promises will be fulfilled.

Look again at the passage in Exodus 34:6-7.

God is compassionate and gracious,

God is slow to anger, abounding is lovingkindness and truth, and

God forgives sin.

Yet God is righteous and will punish those who reject Him. He will punish those who willfully choose to live against His commands. Our fear of God is not based upon ignorance. Fear based on ignorance is a worldly kind of fear which holds someone in suspense – not knowing what is going to happen next. Instead, fear of God is based upon knowledge of who He is. As a result, and as our understanding of God increases, our reverence of Him increases and our commitment to His commands is strengthened – because we understand His majesty and power and dominion over us. Then we develop grateful hearts for His perfect care and instruction leading to a genuine desire to please Him in all our ways. This is the fear of God. With Him we are blessed; without Him we are doomed.

William Burkitt’s New Testament notes, “live in a religious dread of His name, as a glorious God, and a gracious Father; have a reverential awe and fear of His majesty immovably fixed and implanted in your souls”.

How are your thoughts and actions affected by a proper fear of God?

What must be the first step in fearing God?

Honor the king.

This statement refers back to our study a few weeks ago, 1 Peter 2:13-16. Honor is translated from timao, it is the same word used at the beginning of this scripture, meaning to prize, to fix a valuation upon, to revere. This is different than the honor we show God. We honor God because of who He is; we give honor to those in authority because of the position they hold. It is our duty to value the position of our elected officials, bosses, parents, and so on, as those who have been placed in authority for our benefit. This honor is not based on agreement or personal feelings, it is simply based on the subjection we have to our superiors.

Here is some food for thought, “Pay that respect to the emperor which his high authority requires, knowing that civil power is of God; that the authority with which he, in the course of his providence, has invested him, must be respected in order to its being obeyed; and that if the man be even bad, and as a man be worthy of no reverence, yet he should be respected on account of his office. If respect be banished, subordination will flee with it, and anarchy and ruin will rise up in their place. Truly religious persons are never found in seditions”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

This command in 1 Peter 2, to honor the king, was written specifically to those under the Roman sovereign Nero, who was a murderer and persecutor of Christians. It was necessary for Peter to remind the Christians of their duty to the king. It was difficult to understand why they should honor him when he was against what they believed and even tried to usurp their faith. Even so, these Christians were reminded that they should give honor to the one in position of authority. This command is generally applied to all men and governments today. Remember, the duty to honor governing authority is not based on like or agreement, it is based on the fear of God and obedience in following His instructions. It is the position which is held in high esteem, not the person. Consider if you were to willfully go against the laws of government. What would this say about your reverence to God when He is the One who set up authority? What message would you send to those who are not believers, regarding your respect of duty to man? God has set up the governing laws of man and we are to regard those laws as authority, unless we are specifically told to deny Christ and sin against His commands.

“Honour the king whom God hath set over you, and all the subordinate governors who derive their authority from him; paying obedience to all their just commands, and taking heed that there be nothing rebellious or factious in your behaviour, which would turn to the hurt of society, and bring a reflection upon your holy profession”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

“Honour the King; this duty consists in reverencing their persons, in obeying their lawful commands, in a cheerful payment of their dues, in praying affectionately for them, and in praising God for the blessing of their government. Nero, the worst of kings, and the persecutor of Christians was now on the throne, yet the command is express to honour him.

“And if we consider the words in their connexion and conjunction one with another, fear God, and honour the king, we learn, that religion and the fear of God do best qualify persons to be good subjects, this is the true and steady principle of loyalty; that obedience to governors that is lasting, is for conscience-sake to the command of God: where there is no fear of God in the heart, there will be no regard to the command of God in the life.

“Lastly, these words may be considered, as in their conjunction, so in their order in which they stand; first, fear God, and then honour the king; intimating that the fear of God must be the rule and guide of our subjection unto governors”, William Burkitt New Testament.

The freedom we have in Christ is to be used for His service. We are no longer slaves to sin but slaves to righteousness. Therefore, we are able to choose to act in obedience to the One who purchased our freedom. The preceding verse to our studied text reads, “[Act] as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but [use it] as bondslaves of God”, (1 Peter 2:16).

The commands to honor all men, love the brotherhood, fear God, and honor the king, are all continuous, with the fear of God being above all else. So we honor all men as God’s created beings unless evil is promoted; we honor our family in Christ unless sin is supported; we honor the head of government unless we are asked to sin against God. We are to keep on keeping on in obedience and reverence to God.

Freedom to Submit, Freedom from the Power of Sin, Freedom to Serve

“Believers are the freest of men, but they know the difference between liberty and license. As servants of the Lord, they submit for peace sake to man’s laws, because their Great Lawgiver so commands”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

1 Peter 2:13-16

In the previous verses, the Apostle reminded the Christian converts who they were – people of God having received His mercy. As a result of their new identity, they were to abstain from worldly behaviors and pay attention to their pursuit of excellence, even when slandered. The result – all glory to God. Peter now goes on to explain that through excellent behavior, God is honored. The culture surrounding the Christians at that time was engulfed in paganism and idolatry. The government was corrupt, much like we see today. However, the principle of submitting to the authority God has put in place, remains.

1 Peter 2:13-16 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men. [Act] as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but [use it] as bondslaves of God.

We are free to submit to Authorities. Consider – without Christ we are slaves to sin, we are incapable of choosing righteousness. Without Christ, the most important person in your life is self. There are individuals who do not have a relationship with Christ who are helpful, considerate, and generous, so it may be difficult to imagine that ‘self’ is involved – but consider, who receives acknowledgement and praise for their good deeds?

Verse 13 begins with the word ‘Submit’. Submission is a choice. The previous verse says we are to keep our behavior excellent and one way to do this is to follow authority. Not because we always agree, not because we cannot think for ourselves, but because we are free to choose to obey God’s commands. Submission without choice is called force; force causes rebellion and God does not force us to follow Him. Instead, we act in obedience because we love Him. So we can choose to submit, even if we think our authorities are not honest, even if we think our ‘rights’ are being stepped on, because we are not under the control of sin and selfishness.

This concept is applicable in many areas. An overriding concern for the past two years has been Covid, and the restrictions placed on society. So let’s address the ‘elephant’ in the room – not based on opinion but based on the truth in God’s word. It seems as if this virus is slowing down a bit yet, it also seems probable that we will face another similar situation in the future. Many individuals are still highly sensitive about their thoughts on Covid. If you want to begin a lively and probable controversial discussion, all you need to do is mention the word Covid. We all have opinions regarding masks, vaccines, boosters, gathering, distancing, and on and on. Many individuals are even eager to give their reasoning why something did or did not work, or what we should have done differently. We all have thoughts and opinions regarding most everything. But in all cases, including this,

Opinion does not matter – obedience to God’s truth does.

Look at the word ‘submit’ in our text. It comes from the Greek word hupotasso meaning to subordinate, to obey, to be under, to subdue, to make subject to, to submit self unto.

Our English definition of submission says it is surrendering power to another, the feeling of patient, submissive humbleness, compliance. To submit to someone is an act of yielding to another’s opinion, it is accepting another’s decision, it is a choice we make. There is a difference between accepting an opinion and agreeing with an opinion.

Accepting is choosing to tolerate without protest; agreement is the harmony of opinions. You can choose to tolerate without protest because you choose to obey and follow Christ.

Look closely at the word following submit in our text – it says, “Submit yourselves”. It does not say, ‘make sure others are submitting’. We are to pay attention to our own actions much more than the actions of others. Personally asking ourselves if we are doing what God would have us do, backing up our behavior with the truth of scripture, is what we are to be concerned about.

We all make decisions, but what are they based upon? What we have heard, what we think, or Truth? Do we need to completely understand in order to submit?

We are to submit ourselves for the Lord’s sake. It is not about you or me. It is about God! God is supreme in authority, He controls all things, He is our master. Therefore, we willingly follow His commands in response to His deity. We are commanded to submit to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.

The Pharisees tried to trap Jesus when questioning His authority over government.

Matthew 22:17-21 "Tell us therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?" But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, "Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites? "Show Me the coin [used] for the poll-tax." And they brought Him a denarius. And He *said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" They *said to Him, "Caesar's." Then He *said to them, "Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God the things that are God's."

Unfortunately, it is easy to recognize failure and corruption in our government. However, this does not mean God has lost control or is unaware of events or has given up. He is using all things for His greater purpose of building His kingdom. There were many concerns ushered in during the Covid era. Some valid, some perhaps not (according to your opinion) – the government is lying to us, the vaccine will change our DNA, it will cause sterility, we don’t even know if the vaccine works, Covid isn’t real, those who are wearing a mask are fearful of death. The questions I would ask you to consider are, ‘Who is more powerful, Who is in control, Who knows all things, Who has a perfect plan’? When did our government and when did man and his intelligence become greater than God? We should not fear death, Covid, or government – we should fear acting in disobedience to God.

God has given man the freedom to choose, however He has not given man power over His Supreme authority.

Romans 13:1-2 Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

Ultimately, who do we trust? If our trust is in God’s perfect plan and His power over all creation, we can follow His commands without question. We do not need to understand in order to obey. God has given man governing authorities. Even heads of government who do not submit to God are under His hand. God can work through all things and all people, even those who deny Him.

God does not need us to run His world, instead He has purposed us to share His truth.

Titus 3:1-2 Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be uncontentious, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.

Consider how God has worked in your life in the past. Looking back at His faithfulness, you should be able to see His hand directing your path in ways you would have never imagined. Often, the most difficult situations render the sweetest blessings. Throughout all, God is working, just as He has in the past, He will continue His work today and in the future. God has a timeline for each of us – we can neither thwart His plan nor improve upon His plan – it is according to His perfect will for His glory.

Each one of us is individually responsible to obey the governing authorities set before us, “not because man invented it, but because it is proper for men” (1599 Geneva Bible Notes). Government is set for order – to punish those who cause trouble and to protect those who are upright citizens. There will always be imperfections and even corruption in leadership. But we do not want to be the cause of impeding the efforts of authority unless they are directly asking us to deny Christ and sin against Him. Read the next verse of our text:

1Peter 2:15 For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men.

We are free to submit because we are free from the power of sin. Believers can choose righteousness – it is God’s will for us. Christ’s death and resurrection has freed us from the control of sin. This means your life should look different than the world. People may act negatively towards you or even slander you, but upon looking closely at your life, there should be no basis for their accusations. The Bible says they are foolish, having no saving knowledge of God.

Titus 2:7-8 in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, [with] purity in doctrine, dignified, sound [in] speech which is beyond reproach, in order that the opponent may be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.

1Peter 2:12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may on account of your good deeds, as they observe [them,] glorify God in the day of visitation.

Consider the following questions –

Are you acting uprightly and obediently at all times?

Do you give others a reason to accuse you of wrongdoing?

In the early Christian church, those who testified of Christ were targets of false accusations against the authority. It was imperative that if put to trial, the charges would not stand. Integrity and a life of strict adherence and support of the government was the best way to silence foolish charges. In this way God is honored and the opportunity for continuing to witness through words and actions remains.

Say you were called to evangelize in a foreign country where customs were unusual or different for you. You may not agree with dressing a certain way or eating a certain food. You may think some rituals were unnecessary and foolish. However, unless it was an offense to God, you would adhere to the culture in order to secure your audience to hear the truth of the Gospel. You would seek to live in a manner pleasing to those around you in order to build opportunities for speaking about Jesus.

It is possible that for those who have never read the Bible, their first introduction to Christianity may be your lifestyle. This is a sobering truth and responsibility for those who follow Christ. It is imperative to live in a manner which honors Him.

Right where you have been placed is where you belong. And there is a mission field outside your front door, perhaps even within your own home. Rather than get caught up in the restrictions placed on man by government, or become obsessed with exercising your ‘rights’, you can choose to focus on the gift of your salvation and the importance of sharing that gift with those around you.

“In every settled state, and under every form of political government, where the laws are not in opposition to the laws of God, it may be very soundly and rationally said: “Genuine Christians have nothing to do with the laws but to obey them.” Society and civil security are in a most dangerous state when the people take it into their heads that they have a right to remodel and change the laws”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Why obedience to authority? – Because God wills it and commands it. Deciding whether to act in accordance with obedience to authorities is based upon the Truth we find in God’s inerrant word. It is not based upon anything man says or thinks or what we would rather do or not do. It is not based upon ‘what ifs’ or unknowns but is based upon trust in an all-knowing God who perfectly protects His children according to His will for His purpose and His glory. So if God wills us to be obedient to the laws set before us, will He not protect us also? There is no fear in following God’s commands.

Will circumstances always turn out the way we expect? Mostly, no. We are unable to fathom the ways of God. This is where faith must compel us to obey.

After Peter and John healed a lame man, they preached the gospel in the temple. Those in charge were upset because they were proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus. They were put in jail and questioned what power they had to speak of Jesus. Peter answered with a testimony of the Gospel. They were then ordered to stop speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus.

Acts 4:19-20 “But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking what we have seen and heard.”

Their focus was on the gospel; their loyalty was to God’s commands. The scenario continues as Peter and the apostles teach in Jesus’ name and were again questioned by those in authority.

Acts 5:27-29 And when they had brought them, they stood them before the Council. And the high priest questioned them, saying, "We gave you strict orders not to continue teaching in this name, and behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us." But Peter and the apostles answered and said, "We must obey God rather than men.

When authority demands obedience to laws which are contrary to the commands of God (such as denying Him), we obey God rather than men. However, when there is no offense to God’s commands, we are to follow the authority given us through government – whether we like it or not and whether we agree or not. For instance, I do not like paying the exorbitant amount of taxes our government requests. But it is required and hedging around my responsibility would impede my witness of Truth. We could all question the value of many government policies. Yet, we have a duty to follow those in charge – because it honors God. And, we cannot pick and choose which policies we will obey according to our agreement or comfort, or according to popularity or even what we deem our personal ‘rights’.

If our allegiance is to God, then how do we determine our obligation to earthly leadership?

Albert Barnes New Testament Commentary states, “When the laws interfered with the rights of conscience; when they commanded the worship of idols, or any moral wrong, then it was their duty to refuse submission. Yet, in what cases this was to be done, where the line was to be drawn, was a question of deep importance, and one which was not easily settled. It is quite probable, however, that the main danger was, that the early Christians would err in refusing submission, even when it was proper, rather than in undue conformity to idolatrous rites and ceremonies”. “The principles on which Christians should act are settled in this chapter. Be subject. Submit. The word denotes that kind of submission which soldiers render to their officers. It implies subordination; a willingness to occupy our proper place, to yield to the authority of those over us … The general principle will be seen to be, that we are to obey in all things which are not contrary to the law of God”.

If you trust that God is Supreme and in control of all things, then you agree that God has appointed the leaders in our government and things are progressing exactly as planned. In response, we exercise our freedom to submit to the rules set before us and honor God by following those He has allowed to be in charge.

Daniel 2:21 "And it is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings; He gives wisdom to wise men, and knowledge to men of understanding.

“The truth is, the substance of the power of every magistrate is the ordinance of God”, Bp. Sanderson.

Read this quote regarding submission, “Its use in the New Testament, then, as far as human relationships in the redeemed community are concerned yields the idea of humble, informed submission to another in the light of God's will and redemptive work. That kind of submission is to happen in all relationships in life”, bible.org

The bottom line – we submit ourselves to the governing authorities appointed over us out of obedience to God who has set them in place. This brings honor to God. Read Matthew Henry’s Commentary on this subject, “For the Lord’s sake, who had ordained magistracy for the good of mankind, who has required obedience and submission (Romans 13), and whose honour is concerned in the dutiful behavior of subjects to their sovereigns”.

1Peter 2:16 [Act] as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but [use it] as bondslaves of God.

The freedom we have in Christ does not mean we are free from the duty or subjection we have to governing authorities – which has been set in place by God. Christianity is not an excuse to neglect following the laws of our government. We are servants of God, acting in accordance with His commands. We obey human law because it is God’s will for us.

“True religion is always the friend of order, as well as of liberty. The gospel is no doctrine of anarchy, and the Christian is no formenter of strife. Civil government is necessary for the well-being of mankind, and those who delight in the law of the Lord are among the last to wish to see its power weakened, or its executive despised. We had sooner suffer wrong, than see our country the prey of lawless mobs”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

1Corinthians 7:22 For he who was called in the Lord while a slave, is the Lord's freedman; likewise he who was called while free, is Christ's slave.

Romans 6:18 and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.

Galatians 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only [do] not [turn] your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Can we be free yet still live under the constraints of governing authorities who do not follow God?

John 8:31-36 Jesus therefore was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, "If you abide in My word, [then] you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." They answered Him, "We are Abraham's offspring, and have never yet been enslaved to anyone; how is it that You say, 'You shall become free'?" Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. "And the slave does not remain in the house forever; the son does remain forever. "If therefore the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.

“As free; he prevents an objection; they might pretend they were a free people, as Jews, and therefore were not to obey strangers; and made free by Christ. He answers: That they were free indeed, but it was from sin, and not from righteousness, not from obedience to God's law, which requires subjection to magistrates, for they were still the servants of God”, Matthew Poole’s Commentary.

We have complete freedom in Christ. When we are free from seeking self and free from the bondage of sin, then we are free to serve God whole heartedly with our lives. We are blessed to live in a country whose government allows the practice of our faith. But we are not to abuse our freedom. We are not free to use ‘religion’ as a right to stand against those in authority to support what we think is best.

We are to submit to authority for the Lord’s sake.

It is commanded. Jesus’ example was to submit to governing authority. When we submit, we bring glory to God. It is His will for us to submit.

We have freedom in Christ.

Through Him we are no longer slaves of sin. We are free to choose righteousness; free to follow God’s commands in obedience and submission which brings glory to His name. We are free to live our lives serving God.

Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men; knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.

Seek Holiness

As God grows us in His likeness, we are less and less garbed in the world as the righteousness imputed to us through Christ becomes more evident in our character.

Obedience. 1. The act of obeying; dutiful or submissive behavior with respect to another person. 2. The trait of being willing to obey. 3. Behavior intended to please your parents. (WordWeb)

A synonym used for obedience is respect. When we consider showing respect towards someone or something, it is because we honor them, we have an attitude of admiration or esteem. When we honor or esteem someone, we want to please them, we want to do a good job, to perform well.

1Peter 1:14-16 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts [which were yours] in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all [your] behavior; because it is written, "YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY."

The address is to obedient children. Obedient <hupakoe> attentive hearkening, i.e. (by implication) compliance or submission. Consider, if you have accepted God’s gift of salvation, you are His child. Therefore, you are to be obedient. You are to hold your own personal desires and thoughts low, as being unimportant, and esteem God’s direction and commands as having higher value. The idea of submission is putting another’s authority and decisions in front of your own, respecting their knowledge and understanding as superior.

Contemplate this thought for a moment – ‘respecting their knowledge and understanding as superior’.

What does it require from you to respect another individual’s knowledge and understanding as superior?

Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Ro 12:3 For through the grace given to me I say to every man among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.

Philippians 2:5-8

God knows and understands all things.

Psalm 147:5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite.

Isaiah 40:28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable.

Romans 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!

The motivation to obey as God’s children is to please Him as our Father. Obedience honors God’s name.

Following the description of who we are to be now - obedient children, is an explanation of who we once were before God took hold of our heart and turned our eyes to His truths. We were conformed to lust in our ignorance. We followed the same pattern as the world, longing for what is forbidden. Perhaps those who were saved later in life have a more well-defined picture of their ignorance in following the world. But even if you have been a believer since childhood, the struggle with sin is real and understanding its grip on the human heart is not difficult.

Consider how you have changed in your thinking and actions, and desires and pursuits, since Christ took hold of your life. For example, what I once thought was not so bad, I now see as directly opposed to God. And the things I desired were very self-centered and prideful. I would not have even understood that there was a problem in following the world – this was the acceptable standard. Comparing myself to the world’s standard, I thought I was fairly good. Look at the fallacy in this thinking.

First, when we compare ourselves to other individuals, we always come out on top because there is always someone in our own estimation that is worse off or did not do something as well as we did. We do not tend to look at the millions who have excelled over and above our own efforts.

Second, in order to make a true comparison of anything, the entire picture is needed, from the very worst to perfection. We are unable to comprehend either scenario. However, what we do know as God’s obedient children is that we are to strive towards God’s standard of holiness. Think of the following questions.

How well do you fit in the world?
Do your unsaved friends influence you, or do you influence them?
Do you act differently with one group of people than another?
What things might tempt you to try and ‘fit in’?

A word of caution. Being diligent with our own behavior does not mean we tell everyone else how they are to be acting or what they are doing wrong! It is God’s work in a heart that changes people. Yet, we are to be good examples, different from the world around us.

1 Peter 1:14 says we used to be ignorant regarding our behavior. To be ignorant is to be without information or intelligence, without understanding or knowledge. This is a description of who we were without Christ. The decisions we made were without full information, without the complete understanding of who we are and our desperate need for a Savior. We were entrenched in sin without even realizing we had a problem. Consider how well you are able to make good decisions when you have a significant piece of information missing. Try booking a flight without knowing the times you want to leave and arrive, or without having a destination in mind. Your plans will probably turn out haphazard at best. This is like shooting an arrow in the dark hoping you hit the target. This is the best we have without Christ. In fact, we are so heavily pulled into the things of this world that we do not even recognize the danger. – Until God opens His children’s eyes to His Truths. God’s children no longer conform to sin out of ignorance, instead they are characterized by obedience.

Obedience to God demands that we do not follow worldly ways. Instead, we are to live holy in all our behavior (v. 15-16).

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

1Peter 4:1-2 Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children;

What does it mean to be holy?

We are to be physically and morally blameless. We are to strive to be like Jesus. This is only possible through His redemption of our soul. God is holy, He is perfect and pure. He is the One who called your name as His child. He is the one who has called you into understanding and faith in Christ. As His child, receiving all the benefits of His salvation, you also receive the means to be like Him, to imitate His character.

When we say we think we are not strong enough, this is true. However, God is omnipotent. When we say we cannot, we do not understand God’s power. Do we easily give up when we are fighting sin? It is sometimes much easier to concentrate on what everyone else is doing wrong. Almost every social media venue is built on complaints, disagreement with another, justification of self, and individuals sharing their opinions of why we should or should not do something. Is this the behavior that seeks to follow Christ in humility and obedience?

How much time and effort do you put into thinking of what others should or should not be doing? Is there any value in this? At best, this is self-serving.

Specifically, what is mentioned is behavior, or all manner of conversation (KJV). People aptly take on the persona of those they admire. Look around and notice that styles of dress, speech, and even food begin with following someone’s example that another thought highly of. If you profess to follow Jesus, it is imperative that your entire life points to His holiness. We need to learn about Him so that we can imitate Him. We have examples to follow throughout the word of God. Read what Paul tells the Corinthian church, “Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).

It is impossible for us to be perfectly holy, yet we are to endeavor to follow the pattern set before us and practice holiness in every area of our life. We are holy because we belong to God; our actions should increasingly speak of our inward salvation. Our thoughts should be held captive by Truth, and our words should honor God. As we seek to know God and follow Him, our actions on the outside will reflect the change God has wrought on the inside. The inside transformation of our soul will show in the outward actions of our life.

2Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Notice the word all again in verse 15. All means everything, it is inclusive to your whole behavior. Matthew Poole’s Commentary has this explanation of all, “with whomsoever ye converse, believers or infidels, friends or enemies, relations or stranger; and in whatsoever condition ye are in, peace or trouble, prosperity or adversity”.

The word ‘all’ negates any exception to holiness. This means we never have a reason to act unholy. Consider these phrases that may enter into your thoughts –

“This makes me so mad, therefore …”

“It is unfair…”

“I have waited long enough…”

“It happens all the time…”

“I am tired…”

“No one cares…”

“You do not understand…”.

You will probably be able to think of many more instances where we allow ourselves to justify behavior that is unbecoming to a Christian. We do better if we are willing to point the finger at ourselves rather than someone else. Regardless of any outside circumstance, God’s children are to be obedient to His word.

How are you seeking holiness?

Philippians 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

1Thessalonians 2:10-12 You are witnesses, and [so is] God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers; just as you know how we [were] exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father [would] his own children, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

1Thessalonians 4:7 For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification.

Philippians 2:12-16 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.

Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.

God’s command to the Israelites was to be holy. This command stands true to His children everywhere. Conclusion: Do not continue in the sin that once held you captive, instead seek holiness because your Father is holy, and he commands His children to be holy.

Think again how society copies their behavior and appearance after the things they follow. Do you imitate the God you worship? We are to put on holiness and put off sin. Both garments cannot be worn at the same time. As God grows us in His likeness, we are less and less garbed in the world as the righteousness imputed to us through Christ becomes more evident in our character.

Election Results – Now What?

Pray for all men especially those in authority. Pray with thanksgiving for what God has done and what He will do. Pray that God will work in the hearts of those in leadership that they will be wise and fulfill their responsibilities well. Pray for peace to surround us and for your own personal example to promote peace. Pray because it brings glory and honor to God. Pray for the hearts of all men to be radically changed by God’s gift of love.

A few days ago was the first Tuesday in November and elections were held across the country. Senate seats were open, several measures were introduced, and school boards experienced a shuffling of their members. Did everything I voted for pass? No. Do I have concerns for what I see happening in our country? Yes.

In the first chapter of Timothy 2, Paul is writing to his spiritual child Timothy. Paul urges him to remain in Ephesus in order to instruct the church to teach the truth. He reminds Timothy of his own personal testimony of God’s mercy, grace and faithfulness. He then encourages Timothy to ‘fight the good fight’ holding his faith rightly, unlike some who have wearied and gone astray. Now on to the 2nd Chapter which is where I personally found myself reading this morning.

1Ti 2:1-2 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties [and] prayers, petitions [and] thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.

I live in the beautiful state of California. The weather is absolutely gorgeous, the landscape is varied, from mountain peaks to the ocean. There is desert and there are vineyards. We have redwoods and palm trees. Somehow, in God’s design, I was born here and have lived my entire life in this state. California is known for its ‘cutting edge’ thinking. It would be considered progressive. I, however, am what you might label ‘old fashioned’ or conservative.

Back to our elections from this past week. How do we react to what is happening around us? What happens when I don’t necessarily support some of the measures that have been passed or the thinking of my elected representatives? Let’s look at what God’s word says. Why? Because in Him alone we have security and for that, we can be thankful!

1Ti 2:1 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties [and] prayers, petitions [and] thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men,

We are exhorted to pray! This is not a suggestion, rather it is a strong urging to act upon what we are able. We worship God when we come before Him with our prayers. We acknowledge God as our Father when we pray.

Ro 8:15 For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!"

Ga 4:6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!"

Notice what must accompany our prayer – thanksgiving. We are to have a heart of gratitude as we pray. And who do we pray for? All men! Yes, even those we don’t much care for. But how can we have a heart of thankfulness when a measure or law passes that doesn’t honor Biblical teaching?

Consider. Where does true peace come from? Does it come from all things going our way or from the knowledge that God is in control of all things?

Jesus reminded His disciples that they would have peace that only He could give. This is not the peace found in the world which ebbs with every change. However, we can live in peace even as we’re surrounded by the world. There is no need to be fearful.

Joh 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

There is a familiar section of scripture I say to myself often. I am reminded that I don’t need to understand, or agree with circumstances that are not in my power to change, in order to have peace.

Php 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Let’s ponder this heart of thankfulness a bit more. When Paul wrote the book of Timothy, it was at a time when the kings and magistrates were largely enemies of the church. We certainly see this now in our modern governing body. We can pray that eyes are opened to see Truth. We can pray for protection. And we can pray these things with a heart of thanksgiving for all the blessings God continually pours out on the believer and unbeliever alike.

Prayer for everyone is considered a priority. In the New American Standard translation of 1 Timothy 2:1, the phrase used is ‘First of all’. It is important to pray for the salvation of souls.

We are to pray for everyone, including and especially those, in a position of authority. 1Ti 2:2 for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.

What happens when we resort to prayer? We can be still as opposed to fretting, and we encourage peace as opposed to unrest. Our striving for peace will help to maintain peace around us. Our energy can go into praying for those in authority to be faithful to execute the responsibilities of their position. Tertullian, in his Apology, says “We pray for all the emperors, that God may grant them long life, a secure government, a prosperous family, vigorous troops, a faithful senate, an obedient people; that the whole world may be in peace; and that God may grant, both to Caesar and to every man, the accomplishment of their just desires…We pray for kings and rulers, that with their royal authority they may be found possessing a wise and prudent mind."

Consider. How many acts of rioting and rebellion start because one or a few decide to seek their own justice? When an area is in uproar there is no peace, and there is no safety. So, pray. Pray that God will appoint men who will follow His direction. Pray that God will protect us from leaders with a desire to cause trouble and serve themselves. We may not see what we would like but certainly our own hearts will be led to the peace that comes from knowing God is the ultimate authority. And we can enjoy the peace that comes from living in a place that is kept in order. God established authority to keep peace. This is for our benefit. Is God able to influence a heart? Absolutely. Think back for a moment how He has changed you! God’s answers to prayer do not depend on the righteousness of people but rather His own perfect righteousness.

“[Pray] that their hearts may be so influenced as at least to tolerate the gospel, that we, who are by the principles of our religion taught to abhor every thing which would be injurious to them, may not be injured by them, but may be permitted to pass a peaceful and quiet life, while we are desirous to conduct ourselves not only without offence, but in a useful and exemplary manner, in all piety and gravity, attentive to the several duties which we owe both to God and our fellow creatures.” Philip Doddridge

The last part of 1 Timothy 2:1 says “in all godliness and dignity”. Does our conduct bring glory to God? I cannot choose the actions of others, but I can prayerfully consider if my conduct points towards the holiness of God. We can pray for God’s blessing on our government.

Tit 2:7-8 in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, [with] purity in doctrine, dignified, 8 sound [in] speech which is beyond reproach, in order that the opponent may be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.

Ro 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.

In Jeremiah we read the instruction to the Jews in captivity to pray for the peace of the city that held them captive. Jer 29:7 'And seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare.'

Ro 13:1 Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.

In God’s truths we can have quietness – not troubled from without, and peace – not troubled from within.

As you read further in 1 Timothy Chapter 2, verses three and four spell out the desire God has for all men to be saved. We worship God when we act in obedience; our prayers offered for all men to be saved are acceptable forms of worship.

1Ti 2:3-4 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Nothing is hopeless! Consider what God did in Paul’s life. He was once an avid persecutor of Christians and God turned that same fervor he had against truth to work for His glory.

Let’s pray then, in agreement with God, for the salvation of souls, particularly those who have responsibility to lead. If God saved you, how can you doubt that His grace extends to everyone? 2 Timothy 1:9 reminds us we were not saved because of our own good works but because of God’s grace. Pray for your enemies. Pray for those you know and love. Pray for those in authority. This is according to God’s will and reaps a benefit of blessing.

Mt 5:44-45 "But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you 45 in order that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on [the] evil and [the] good, and sends rain on [the] righteous and [the] unrighteous.

Jesus died on the cross for all mankind. Through Jesus alone, God provides a way of salvation to all and desires all to be saved. We have a responsibility to share Who God is and what He has done, to those around us in the hope that they will believe. It is possible you are thinking if Jesus died for all mankind, why isn’t everyone just saved? Salvation is available and made possible for all, yet all do not accept the gift provided.

Consider. Let’s say you were shipwrecked. You’re the only one who survived and you find yourself on a very small island literally in the middle of nowhere. On this island there is no food, no fresh water, and no shelter. There is no land to be seen in the distance and, although you’re a strong swimmer, there is no possibility of swimming off the island because you’ve spotted several sharks close to shore.

Perhaps for a short time, the beauty and allure of a deserted island with a private white sand beach, seems doable. But soon, hunger, thirst and lack of protection from the elements, take their toll, and the need to be rescued becomes your overwhelming concern.

Just you are finishing your trek around the island, having lost all hope of trying to discover a way off, you notice a bright shiny yacht anchored just off a small cove. You can’t believe your good fortune. You think you may be hallucinating because it is difficult to understand how it appeared, but it is real. You climb aboard and marvel at the accommodation you see. The galley kitchen below deck is stocked with food and water – enough for several days. There are keys and an envelope sitting on the driver’s seat.

You enjoy the food, engorging yourself with delicious meals, you drink your fill of fresh water, and even sleep in the comfort of a real bed. But, soon, the food and water is depleted. You do still have protection however. Several more days go by and you realize you are in a desperate state once again. Then, your eye catches something reflecting the sun’s rays.

The key! You had been so busy enjoying the provision of the yacht, you didn’t really pay attention to the key – or the envelope. You open the envelope and it contains a card that simply reads, “Use the key, it will save you”. The problem is, you don’t know how to drive and certainly have no idea how to manage navigating a yacht.

Now you have a choice. You can stay on the island and even take cover in the protection of what was provided. But eventually, the hope you once felt upon your discovery will vanish and you will starve to death. Or … even though you’re scared to turn the key and have no idea how you will navigate something unfamiliar, you can use the key, and have faith that this yacht is your only way to safety. It will save you but you must trust that it will and put your faith in what has been provided.

God desires all men to be saved. God has provided the way of our salvation. We need to choose to use the key and accept what He has done. Not all choose to place their faith and trust in Jesus.

Joh 3:16-17 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. 17 "For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through Him.

1Ti 2:1-4 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties [and] prayers, petitions [and] thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

I am concerned for what I see happening in our country. But I am reminded of God’s faithfulness and the need to pray as His child. I am reminded that peace comes from knowing God and trusting in His perfect plan. God will use the results of this past election and those to come, for His glory and His greater purpose that all will be saved.

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Tag: authority

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