Relationship
Responsibilities
Introduction:
How
many relationships do you have? Spouse? Children? Co-workers? Business? Fellow
Christians? Of those, the spousal
relationships are perhaps the hardest to maintain. When the relationship
between husband and wife breaks down, problems result. If left unattended,
divorce becomes a likely result. What can we do to strengthen our
relationships? How can a husband and wife withstand the storms of trial? Peter
tells us to consider how well we are fulfilling our responsibilities. Such as…
A.
Peter
encourages the wives to be focused more on the inward person rather than the
outward.
1.
As
seen in the command to be submissive.
a.
“To
obey; to subordinate”
b.
Point
is for those husbands who are unbelievers may be converted without a word.
2.
As
seen in apparel.
a.
Not
to be focused on the outward appearance.
b.
Focus
on the inward qualities
B.
3:5-6
- This is the pattern of behavior of wives for thousands of years.
A.
Husbands
are to be understanding when it comes to the marital relationship.
1.
The
husband must realize…
a.
She
is weaker
b.
She
is entitled to eternal life
B.
Husband
must fulfill his responsibility or else his relationship with God is adversely
affected.
III.
3:8-12 - Everyone’s
Responsibilities
A.
We
are to treat fellow Christians properly and without discrimination.
1.
No
matter who it is and what they’ve done, our duty does not change.
2.
Peter
said we must be…
a.
Harmonious;
Sympathetic; Brotherly; Kindhearted; Humble in spirit; Do not return evil
B.
We
have been called for the purpose of being blessed by God.
1.
The
Lord is aware of those who strive to serve Him.
Conclusion
A.
Relationships
take a lot of work to keep them functioning as God desires.
B.
How
is your relationship with God?