Christian Duty
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the Emperor.” 1 Peter 2:17 HCSB
First century believers did not live in a “God-fearing” world. Not unless you consider that being “fearing” the Emperor, who considered himself a god. Yet, in the midst of hostility; in the midst of a pagan environment; in the midst of a time when the gospel was being first proclaimed, we see a call to Christ-honoring conduct.
As Peter opens his letter, he recognizes the “trying of faith” that was gripping these Jewish believers. But in spite of all that is taking place, he admonishes them to “…rid yourselves of all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all slander…” (1 Peter 2:1 HCSB) He reminded them that they, like Christ, were “…rejected by men but chosen and valuable to God…” (1 Peter 2:4 HCSB)
Peter then charges them to “Conduct yourselves honorably among the Gentiles…Submit to every human authority…” he says, “…it is God’s will that you silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing good.” (1 Peter 2:12,13,15 HCSB) Later in this chapter Peter says we are to follow in the steps of Christ who, “…did not commit sin,
and no deceit was found in His mouth; when He was reviled, He did not revile in return; when He was suffering,
He did not threaten but entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly.“ (1 Peter 2:22,23 HCSB)
Peter’s great summary of Christian duty is found in four statements, “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the Emperor.”
As those who have a “Christian” worldview, we are called to honor those for whom Christ died, even when they are in rebellion to His ways. We see Jesus reminding us that is is our love for fellow believers demonstrates our unity in Christ and is the greatest testimony to the world of God’s reality. (John 13:35) Our motivation for our lifestyle is out of reverence for the Lord. We are called not to live by natural impulses and self-centered reactions, but by those which are “super” natural. Peter then reminds believers of the call to honor (not assassinate) the Emperor. The one who would be torturing them and putting them to death. That is a high calling indeed!
When we follow God’s plan, we live in God’s favor. Peter says, “But when you do what is good and suffer, if you endure it, this brings favor with God.” (1 Peter 2:20 HCSB) We are not called to some “Pollyanna” lifestyle, but to live as those who are wise and fully committed to the plan and purposes God has for His people.
Prayer for today…. “Lord, grant us the strength and grace to live according to Your plan and purpose for our life. May our attitudes, actions and reactions and be pleasing to You.”