Re: Verse reading–1 Peter 2:11-25; 3:1-9 (day seven)
“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.” (2:13-14) We live in an anti-authoritarian age. Self is sovereign. We act with independence toward teachers, parents, pastors, government. Soul and societal suicide! God’s word teaches a different path. “Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those who exist are established by God.” (Romans 13:1) This is NOT an endorsement of every particular government or ruler. It is, however, strong instruction to all believers that the concept of authority (and the need for it) is part of God’s will for the world. Christians must be careful, even when we disagree with authorities, to do so with submission and respect. For the Lord’s sake.
Amen. Consider Daniel, Joseph, Mordecai and Esther – examples of how to be “light” to those who are in authority over us in the Lord. May we all exercise Godly attitudes and wise appeals when we disagree. And pray for them …. “that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” (1 Timothy 2:2)
Thank you very much for this post. I am grateful for it and for the comment. These were just what I needed to “hear” today.