freedom

New Beginnings

You are not the same, you are no longer bound to this earth and worldly thinking, but instead you are heavenly minded. You have a new nature quite different from anything you were before.

2Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man is in Christ, [he is] a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.

This verse begins with the words, ‘if any man is in Christ’. What does it mean to be in Christ?

Being in Christ means you are a genuine Christian, that your heart and life has been changed. It does not matter what ‘religion’ you call yourself, or what church you attend, or even if you have been baptized in a certain church. It is not what you have done, or how good you are, or what your parents taught you. It is what Christ has done and His love for us. It is having Christ dwell in your heart by faith. Being in Christ means you are joined with Him; united to Him in faith because of God’s grace.

I love to work in my garden. In February, you will find me outside pruning our two dozen fruit trees and grapevines. Once branches or limbs are cut off from their source, they are thrown away because they are no longer useful. Instead of being attached, receiving all their nourishment and support from the tree or vine, having been solely sustained by it, they are removed. This is a good picture of not being in Christ. There is no attachment, there is no union, no life to be had; there is no strength, and no purpose that will last. In the same way, anything someone does outside of Christ, or in their own strength, has no real lasting value.

John 15:4 "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, so neither [can] you, unless you abide in Me.

Consider your relationship with Jesus. If you are abiding in His truths and trusting in Him, then you are alive in Him. All your strength comes from Him. You have a position with Him, being part of His family. You are His child, and you have been freed from the power of sin, and freed to the pursuit of holiness. You have been renewed to think upon heavenly things rather than earthly things. This is what it means to be ‘in Christ’.

If you are in Christ, your heart has been changed, along with your thoughts and feelings. What differences do you see in your thinking and behavior? There must be some difference – our verse goes on to say, ‘he is a new creature’.

This literally means new or fresh. You are not the same, you are no longer bound to this earth and worldly thinking, but instead you are heavenly minded. You have a new nature quite different from anything you were before.

“That a change is produced so great as to make it proper to say that he is a new man. He has new views, new motives, new principles, new objects and plans of life. He seeks new purposes, and he lives for new ends … There is a change so deep, so clear, so entire, and so abiding, that it is proper to say, here is a new creation of God--a work of the Divine power as decided and as glorious as when God created all things out of nothing. There is no other moral change that takes place on earth so deep, and radical, and thorough, as the change at conversion. And there is no other where there is so much propriety in ascribing it to the mighty power of God”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

When I consider my motivations and thoughts before I was saved, I hardly even recognize myself. I used to seek approval of others, getting my worth from their reactions. I was afraid of not doing what was expected because others would be upset with me or show displeasure. I tried to follow a set of man-made rules in order to please those around me. I really didn’t even know what I believed or what my goals were. I was fearful of rejection, so I learned to please people. Now, I am much more concerned about pleasing God in my thoughts, actions, and words. My value is in being His child. My strength and purpose is in doing God’s will, rather than being accepted or approved by others. I truly am a completely different person. This is the testimony of God’s work in my life – because of Him, I am a new creature.

Being a new creature in Christ, is more than being mended, or putting a band aid on a problem. It is removing the problem altogether. Love of self, love of sin, love of the world, prejudices, opinions, habits, pride, and selfish ambition, are being transformed to love of God, hating my sin and the sin in the world around me, learning to see others through the lens of Christ’s love for them, growing in the knowledge of God’s will, seeking to please Him in all things, confessing my own sin, and desiring to live for God’s glory.

‘the old things passed away’

This is marvelous, perhaps the best rejuvenation recipe ever to be found! Your ‘old self’ is gone and has been replaced by a new self! Literally, your former ways of thinking in regard to spiritual things has changed. You now look to the future. One commentary writes, “All the old, out-worn conditions of our sinful nature … are now gone and past”, (Hall’s Explication of Hard Texts).

Think! Something cannot be new and old at the same time. We used to be controlled by sin – now Christ controls us. We used to live for ourselves – now we live for Jesus. This is a 180° turn in our thoughts and actions. You were headed in one direction, now you have been turned towards the opposite direction.

Ephesians 4:21-24 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in [the likeness of] God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.

For example, my name is still Sharyn, and on the outside, I look the same. I even have the same soul, but I am characterized by new qualities, new understanding, new thoughts, and new goals. And all are centered on Jesus and what He has done for me. My old way of thinking ended when God touched my heart, opened my eyes, and allowed me to accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. Now my life is in Christ – my affections, my motives, my thoughts, and my hopes have been placed in Him. The purpose of my life, the feelings in my heart, the reasons for my actions, have all changed.

“All is new. There are new views of God and of Jesus Christ; new views of this world and of the world to come; new views of truth and of duty; and everything is seen in a new aspect and with new feelings … The Bible seems to be a new book; and though they may have often read it before, yet there is a beauty about it which they never saw before, and which they wonder they have not before perceived. The whole face of nature seems to them to be changed, and they seem to be in a new world. The hills, and vales, and streams; the sun, the stars, the groves, the forests, seem to be new. A new beauty is spread over them all; and they now see them to be the work of God, and his glory is spread over them all, and they can now say--- "My Father made them all." The heavens and the earth are filled with new wonders, and all things seem now to speak forth the praise of God. Even the very countenances of friends seem to be new; and there are new feelings towards all men; a new kind of love to kindred and friends; a love before unfelt for enemies; and a new love for all mankind”, Albert Barnes NT Commentary.

William Burkitt’s New Testament commentary says, “Old things are passed, or passing away daily, the old carnal inclinations of mind are wearing off, the old will is changed, the old life is reformed; and in a word, whatever was old and carnal, is now become new and spiritual” … “the change of the new creature consists in a new mind, a new will, a new judgment, new affections …”.

Notice the text again, it says, “the old things passed away”. This means they have gone; not been set aside or had something added to them, but gone, ceased in their existence. Have you heard someone say, “Well, this is just how I am, I can’t help it”? In Christ, there is nothing further from the truth. God can do anything, He can change anyone, and certainly, He will fulfill His promise of making His children more like Himself. We may not be very successful in changing ourselves, but God never fails. In our own strength we absolutely fall into sin; in His strength we are free to choose holiness.

Everyone who is ‘new’ in Christ should think upon heavenly things rather than earthly. Think! What occupies your thoughts most often?

Ezekiel 11:19-20 "And I shall give them one heart, and shall put a new spirit within them. And I shall take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, that they may walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances, and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God.

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.

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.

Beautiful, Precious, Costly Freedom

Consider Patrick Henry in his speech on March 34, 1775. Most American’s are familiar with this famous quote: “give me liberty or give me death”. It means that freedom is worth dying for.

Freedom. We are blessed to live in a country where we are free to pursue the things we believe. Our freedom came at a great price. Countless lives have been lost in obtaining our independence from neighboring countries. Most Americans would agree they are thankful for their freedom and for those who died fighting for it, and for those who continue to defend our country.

Complete freedom is found in Christ. Our freedom from the control of sin was purchased at a great price – Jesus’ death on the cross. Jesus’ victory over sin once and for all was obtained when He miraculously rose from the dead. Those who believe in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and have accepted His gift of deliverance from sin’s grasp, celebrate freedom now and forever where we will one day be free from sin’s presence altogether. Praise God for His love and mercy shown toward us and for the sacrifice of His only Son!

Joh 8:32 and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

Free meaning to liberate, to deliver. Consider Patrick Henry in his speech on March 34, 1775. Most American’s are familiar with this famous quote: “give me liberty or give me death”. It means that freedom is worth dying for.

God chose that our freedom from sin was worth dying for.

“Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!”
― Patrick Henry

Praise God that He has chosen you to live in a country where you are free to worship Him. Your freedom from slavery in this country has been purchased with the price of countless soldiers. Your freedom from slavery to sin has been purchased with the price of God’s Son, Jesus Christ.

The most effectual means of securing the continuance of our civil and religious liberties, is always to remember with reverence and gratitude the source from which they flow. – John Jay, First Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

America was founded on the understanding of its need for God and trust in God. Pull out the coins and paper money you have in your wallet and consider what it says: In God We Trust. Do you?

Tag: freedom

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