Honoring Authority
Introduction:
After imploring the people to build on the proper
foundation (2:1-12), he tells them to be sure to place the proper honor on
certain institutions and people. It seems that perhaps the people were having a
hard time honoring those that were above them (perhaps due to persecution?). Are
we any different today? Have we
been affected by those around us and been tempted to refrain from bestowing
proper honor? Peter covers three
areas in which honor should be bestowed.
A.
Christians
are obligated to submit to the various forms of government and the leaders that
occupy governmental office.
1.
Romans 13:1-2 –
government has been ordained by God
2.
Matthew 22:21 – render to Caesar the things that are
Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.
B.
By
submitting ourselves to the government we put to shame those who are
disobedient. Rom. 12:19-21
C.
Though
we are free in Christ, it does not release us from our responsibilities to
submit to government.
II. 2:18-20 - Honor Those Over Us.
A.
Though this directive is
towards slaves, there is application for all.
1.
Employer/employee
relationship
a)
What
is our attitude toward those who are above us?
2.
Colossians
3:22-23; Ephesians 6:6-8
B.
Through our submission to our master,
we bring honor to God.
1.
God
is pleased when we respond positively to those who treat us poorly. Rom. 12:14,17;
2.
Luke
6:31-36 - There is no credit when we sin and patiently suffer.
III. 2:21-25 - Honor Our Shepherd
A.
We
have been called for the very purpose of suffering for righteousness sake.
1.
Mt.
5:13-16 - To help shine a very bright light on a very dark world.
a.
We
live in a time where people are consumed with themselves and their rights. Yet,
Peter said it’s not about us.
B.
The
greatest example we have of this is Jesus Himself.
1.
He
emptied Himself of His “rights” and died for the sins of the world.
2.
Eph.
1:7 - Through His sacrifice we have the forgiveness of sins.
A.
Honor
is an expected trait of all Christians, especially in the realm of the world.
B.
Have
you honored the Lord by having Him cleanse your soul with His blood?