11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. 12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. 13 Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. – 1 Peter 2:11–17
“You’re not the boss of me!”
Chances are, if we were to hangout at a playground long enough, we’d hear this phrase exchanged between a “wanna-be boss” and a child who doesn’t “wanna-be led.” Social dynamics like these are fascinating to observe. By all accounts it appears we are hardwired from the start with a tendency to jockey for power and authority. The problem is, not everyone can be the boss. And so, the question is, who gets to be in charge and has to submit? In other words, who’s the boss? Playgrounds, homes, workplaces, and communities are filled with people who are still trying to answer that question. The truth is, without clear order the answer often gets sorted out in some pretty messy ways.
And so, who is the boss of you? As Christians we know God is our ultimate authority. Once we realize God is boss, we can look to him for guidance on who He’s placed in charge. As a God of order, we learn in His word how he instituted specific authorities to provide social order and peace. We’ll see in the coming weeks as we get back to our study of 1 Peter, how a “Forged” life is a life that spreads the gospel by surrendering to God and submitting to His authority.
This week we’ll be tackling how God implemented governing authorities to bring order and forge us for His Glory. Take some time to read 1 Peter 2:11-17 and consider God’s design for government and how it forges us for the better.
Here’s the worship set to help you prepare as well!
Love you church,
Jerry Lingenfelter
Senior Pastor |