Honoring Authority: A Christian's Call to Respect
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound teachings of 1 Peter 2:13-17, focusing on the Christian's relationship with government and authority. As we stand on the eve of a significant political event, the inauguration, it's crucial to reflect on how we, as followers of Christ, are called to interact with the governing bodies. The passage urges us to submit to authority, not merely out of obligation, but for the Lord's sake, recognizing that government is a divine institution ordained by God. This submission is not blind obedience but a respectful acknowledgment of the roles and responsibilities that God has established.
We delved into historical examples, such as Harry Truman's presidency, to illustrate the weight of leadership and the necessity of respect for authority. Truman's humility and understanding of authority remind us that respect is due not because of the individual's merit but because of the position they hold. This respect extends to all levels of authority, from the highest office to local governance, emphasizing that our conduct should reflect our faith and the excellencies of God.
The sermon also addressed the misconception that Christians, being free in Christ, are lawless. Instead, our freedom is not a license for sin but an opportunity to serve God and others. We are called to be model citizens, living out our faith in a way that silences the ignorance of those who misunderstand or oppose Christianity. By doing good, we demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel and uphold the reputation of God.
In conclusion, our behavior towards authority is a testament to our faith. We are to honor everyone, love the brotherhood, fear God, and honor the emperor. This holistic approach to respect and submission is not just about maintaining order but about proclaiming the excellencies of an excellent God through our actions and attitudes.
Key Takeaways:
- Submission to Authority: Christians are called to submit to governing authorities as a reflection of their submission to God. This submission is not about blind obedience but about respecting the divine institution of government, recognizing that God has placed these authorities for a purpose. Our respectful conduct towards authority is a testament to our faith and a way to honor God. [37:24]
- Freedom in Christ: Our freedom in Christ is not a license to sin but an opportunity to serve God and others. We are free from the penalty of sin and the constraints of religion, but this freedom should lead us to live as servants of God, using our liberty to do good and uphold the values of the gospel. [54:32]
- Model Citizenship: By living as model citizens, Christians can silence the ignorance of those who oppose or misunderstand the faith. Our good deeds and respectful conduct can quiet criticisms and demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel, making us effective witnesses for Christ. [52:23]
- Respect for All Levels of Authority: Respect is due to all levels of authority, from the highest offices to local governance. This respect is not based on the merit of individuals but on the positions they hold, as ordained by God. Our conduct should reflect our faith and the excellencies of God, even in challenging circumstances. [50:04]
- Proclaiming God's Excellencies: Our behavior towards authority is a means to proclaim the excellencies of God. By being excellent in our conduct, we maintain a voice for the gospel, ensuring that our actions do not hinder our ability to share the good news of Christ with others. [01:00:30]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [34:14] - Introduction to 1 Peter 2:13-17
- [37:24] - The Importance of Authority
- [38:36] - Conduct and Proclaiming God's Excellencies
- [39:49] - Submission and Respect
- [41:03] - Christianity and Cultural Perception
- [49:05] - Challenges of Respecting Authority
- [50:04] - Respect for All Human Institutions
- [51:16] - The Divine Purpose of Government
- [52:23] - Silencing Criticism Through Good Deeds
- [53:11] - Misunderstandings of Christian Freedom
- [54:32] - Living as Free People
- [55:19] - Avoiding Cultic Christianity
- [57:00] - Honor and Love in Christian Conduct
- [01:00:30] - Being a Neighbor in a Pagan Culture
- [01:04:06] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- 1 Peter 2:13-17
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Observation Questions:
1. What does 1 Peter 2:13-17 say about the Christian's relationship with governing authorities? How does this passage suggest we should view government? [39:49]
2. In the sermon, how was Harry Truman's presidency used to illustrate the concept of respect for authority? What specific example was given? [37:24]
3. According to the sermon, what is the misconception about Christian freedom, and how should Christians actually live out their freedom? [54:32]
4. What role does the concept of submission play in the sermon, and how is it described in relation to different institutions? [39:49]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the sermon interpret the command to "submit to authority" in 1 Peter 2:13-17? What is the significance of doing this "for the Lord's sake"? [49:05]
2. The sermon mentions that Christians are called to be model citizens. What does this mean in practical terms, and how does it relate to silencing criticism? [52:23]
3. How does the sermon explain the balance between respecting authority and recognizing when it is necessary to stand against it? What examples from the Bible are given? [51:16]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between Christian conduct and the proclamation of the gospel? How does this relate to the idea of being "excellent in our behavior"? [57:00]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current attitude towards government and authority. How can you align your perspective with the biblical call to respect and submit to authority for the Lord's sake? [49:05]
2. Consider a situation where you might have used your freedom in Christ as an excuse for not following rules or authority. How can you change your approach to reflect true Christian freedom? [54:32]
3. Think of a recent interaction with a figure of authority, such as a teacher, boss, or local official. How did you demonstrate respect, and what could you do differently next time to better reflect your faith? [50:04]
4. Identify a way you can be a model citizen in your community. What specific actions can you take to silence criticism and demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel? [52:23]
5. How can you actively honor everyone, love the brotherhood, fear God, and honor the emperor in your daily life? What challenges do you face in doing this, and how can you overcome them? [57:00]
6. Reflect on a time when you disagreed with a government policy or decision. How did you express your disagreement, and how can you ensure that your conduct remains respectful and Christ-like in future situations? [51:16]
7. In what ways can you proclaim the excellencies of God through your actions and attitudes towards authority? How can you ensure that your behavior does not hinder your ability to share the gospel? [01:00:30]
Devotional
Day 1: Submission as a Reflection of Faith
Christians are called to submit to governing authorities as a reflection of their submission to God. This submission is not about blind obedience but about respecting the divine institution of government, recognizing that God has placed these authorities for a purpose. Our respectful conduct towards authority is a testament to our faith and a way to honor God. By understanding that government is a divine institution ordained by God, we can approach our interactions with authority with a sense of purpose and reverence. This perspective allows us to see beyond the individuals in power and focus on the roles and responsibilities established by God. [37:24]
"For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment." (Romans 13:1-2, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you demonstrate respect for authority in your daily interactions, even when you disagree with those in power?
Day 2: Freedom to Serve
Our freedom in Christ is not a license to sin but an opportunity to serve God and others. We are free from the penalty of sin and the constraints of religion, but this freedom should lead us to live as servants of God, using our liberty to do good and uphold the values of the gospel. This understanding of freedom challenges us to consider how we use our liberty. Are we using it to indulge in selfish desires, or are we using it to serve others and glorify God? True freedom in Christ empowers us to live lives that reflect His love and grace to those around us. [54:32]
"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." (Galatians 5:13, ESV)
Reflection: How can you use your freedom in Christ today to serve someone in your community or family?
Day 3: Living as Model Citizens
By living as model citizens, Christians can silence the ignorance of those who oppose or misunderstand the faith. Our good deeds and respectful conduct can quiet criticisms and demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel, making us effective witnesses for Christ. This call to model citizenship is not just about following laws but about embodying the values of the kingdom of God in our everyday lives. As we engage with the world around us, our actions and attitudes should reflect the love and truth of Christ, providing a living testimony to His transformative power. [52:23]
"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." (1 Peter 2:12, ESV)
Reflection: What specific action can you take this week to demonstrate the love of Christ to someone who may misunderstand or oppose your faith?
Day 4: Respecting All Levels of Authority
Respect is due to all levels of authority, from the highest offices to local governance. This respect is not based on the merit of individuals but on the positions they hold, as ordained by God. Our conduct should reflect our faith and the excellencies of God, even in challenging circumstances. By respecting authority, we acknowledge God's sovereignty and His purpose in establishing these roles. This respect is a reflection of our trust in God's plan and our commitment to living out our faith in every aspect of our lives. [50:04]
"Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work." (Titus 3:1, ESV)
Reflection: How can you show respect to a local authority figure this week, even if you find it challenging?
Day 5: Proclaiming God's Excellencies Through Conduct
Our behavior towards authority is a means to proclaim the excellencies of God. By being excellent in our conduct, we maintain a voice for the gospel, ensuring that our actions do not hinder our ability to share the good news of Christ with others. This call to excellence is about more than just personal integrity; it's about being a living testimony to the greatness of God. As we interact with the world, our actions should point others to the transformative power of the gospel and the hope we have in Christ. [01:00:30]
"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." (1 Peter 2:9, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can your conduct today proclaim the excellencies of God to those around you?
Quotes
"Harry Truman was a Missouri haberdasher farmer. And he was thrust into the presidency because of the death of one of the most beloved presidents that we've had, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. And it was right in the middle of one of the greatest wars that this planet has ever seen. And he had to make the call of the unleashing of nuclear power. And he alone was the one that had to make that call. Could you imagine?" [00:36:05]
"And he said that because Truman understood something. He had been a World War II soldier. He understood that in any place, you have to have authority. I don't care whether it's in government or in the home, on an athletic squad, you have to have captains. Even in the church, even here, there is somebody that has to govern." [00:37:38]
"And it is verses 11 and 12, that he tells us that we have to be honorable in our conduct. And that is what Peter is telling these people, these believers in these Greek provinces. And that gives them the right, if they are excellent in their behavior, it gives them the right in verse 9 to proclaim the excellencies of an excellent God. See, you cannot apply, or you cannot peddle unapplied truth." [00:38:36]
"And the word that is going to be used in all three of these institutions is going to be a word that means to willingly place yourself under ordained authority. It's the word submission. It has the idea of respect. Okay. So let me tell you now why this text is here. It's here because of verse 15. Look there." [00:39:49]
"they see us as people who hold to ideologies they're in a an archaic book that is not even relevant anymore and that is how they see us they look at you and me and they think we are the worst thing that has happened to society and they think that that we would be better off with humanism so Peter what he's going to tell you here in verses 13 through 17 how are we to relate to a culture that feels that they would be better off without us how do we act well verse 13 if you want to write down a word write down the word command in verse 13 you have a command here's the command of Peter submit yourselves or willingly place yourself underneath somebody it's the idea not of just obedience but respect submit yourself for the Lord's sake it goes like this Romans chapter 13 to the Christians in Rome submit yourselves to the governing authorities Paul to Timothy in Ephesus first of all I urge that prayers and treaties petitions and thanksgivings be made on behalf of kings and all who are in authority that we may live a tranquil quiet life in godliness and indignity Proverbs 24 12 my son fear the Lord the King do not associate with those given to change the book of Ecclesiastes chapter 8 he who keeps a royal command experiences no trouble and so you see here from one end of the Bible to the other we are exhorted to be respectful to the governing authorities well as Paul the Watcher of the flesh and I imagine the church includes the Romans Latinos the Gentiles the atonement of the protagonist and they very much worshiping one another who does not obey the gospel we intercede on the newspapers look at the New Testament we see a covenant I let's talk aboutfootους we have plans to lots be said we did it just a book the whole thing will be eggplant right now okay it says it is sure we're going to be free looking for the Lord and looking for his trust the foolish Before they лures and bliss all ought to boast life is and accordingly not any tool and 沒有 this is what we think it means. to rebel against the government but all of those men they all treated those centurions with the highest of respect Pilate to Jesus you know that I have the authority to kill you to crucify you and I have the authority to release you and Jesus said respectfully in return you have no authority unless heaven has conferred it upon you and he was very respectful and I assure you that Pontius Pilate is a far worse leader than Donald Trump will be and you know what promise you he was worse trust me it's a fact Daniel said to Nebuchadnezzar wherever the sons of men dwell God has made you ruler how respectful is that for Daniel to say that to him and I will assure you that Nebuchadnezzar is far worse a ruler than Donald Trump and he said you are where you are because God let you be there so whether it's Jesus or Peter or Paul or Daniel we're told to be respectful toward authority" [00:41:03]
"and that is what this text is all about and would you notice something there in verse 13 he says there be subject why for the Lord's sake why do we be subject it's because this institution the institution of government is ordained by God incidentally do you know where the beginnings of government are you have to look all the way back to Genesis chapter 9 right after the flood it says their whoever shed sheds man's blood by man shall his blood be shed that God gives the privilege he gives the responsibility of governing and punishing evil to men and that is the beginnings of government but see the thing here and this is what the text is saying you don't be subject you don't be polite you don't be respectful to government simply because government is good you respect it why for the Lord's sake because the reputation of God is at stake even in you as an individual it's the institution of God there now are there times where we have to rebel against the government you'll know when that is when it happens when we are told to stop preaching in the name of Jesus like in Acts chapter 5 or when we're told not to worship God or to pray like in the book of Daniel it is then that that you have to bow up we have to blow up in those situations can we condemn even the evil in government Jesus said of the Jewish government of his day they have the greater sin woe unto you Pharisees so it's not wrong at all to cry out against the evils of government and it's not really contradictory to being respectful you can still be respectful and disagree and call out the evil in the government of our day can we get involved in government and move good men in and bad men out I mean in some elections do you feel do you think that maybe Christians probably had wished that they had turned out in better numbers I mean there are some elections where if an entire megachurch would have turned out to vote that didn't vote in the election that it would turn it would have turned the whole election around and we just don't know how important that is so all of those things are are agreed upon but nonetheless we are called to be respectful and folks this is tough isn't it because the people that rule us aren't always the best this is hard for us very very difficult about every April I'm sure it's like uh it is with me as it is with you every April I begin complaining to my wife about paying taxes anybody with me I'll say things like you know God doesn't ask me for this much you know uh she's heard it all uh do you know that" [00:41:03]
"the greatest tax in all of the Bible is 20%, 20%. That's Israel and Egypt, 20%. And our government demands more of me than God. And she's heard it. And our government does a far less worthy job than God does. But see, I'm just like you. I've gotta give them so much. I've gotta give them so much. Bob Hope once said that he loved to go to Washington if only to be near his money. Okay? And so a lot of us struggle." [00:48:52]
"See, you can't say that you will be submissive merely to the king, that there are others that you have to be submissive to. He said every human institution. That is down to the crossing guard at the high school. Or if you're a student, the teacher that has been placed over you, that you have been entrusted to their care. If you're a teenager, how are you doing with that? Right?" [00:49:32]
"An atheistic government is an oxymoron. You can't have it. The government is to curtail evil. They are to promote what is right. That is the purpose of government. And you and I don't have to go out like the Corleones, right? We don't have to go out like the Barzinis. We don't have to have these Sicilian vendettas." [00:51:56]
"Christians that live their faith out quiet criticisms. Y 'all hear that? There's a great quotation by Tertullian. He was a Christian writer in the early days of the faith. And he was writing to the Roman Empire. And he said, he said these words, search your prisons. They're full of criminals, and none of them are Christians." [00:52:40]
"And they were ignorant of this because they thought that because a Christian was free, because he was free from the law, because he was alive to God, because his salvation was already certain, and he need not do anything to maintain it or keep it, they thought that because he had an absolute that was higher than the government, that he would have no sense of the law. That he wouldn't follow the law. That was the ignorance. That was the foolishness of a Christian. Now, I want to really show you the eating of the of the day." [00:53:11]
"But he tells us not to use Christianity as an excuse to do evil. That just because you have your fire insurance and you're not going to hell anymore, and that is secure, that you can do whatever you want. And there are actually people that feel this way, even in our world today. We have to live as people that are free." [00:54:55]
"That you and I are expected to be the best of citizens. You and I are to be the best of neighbors. That we are to be excellent in all of our behavior, so that we... can proclaim the excellencies of an excellent god see if we don't act the way the bible calls us to in these texts in the areas of these institutions we have no voice where the gospel is concerned no one will hear the gospel from our lips and that is why we are we are called to these things one of my favorite passages listen to this from the book of titus clint clint started this text earlier remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities to be obedient and ready for every good deed to be uncontentious gentle to malign no one to be ready for every good deed knowing that once we were once foolish ourselves disobedient and ungrateful and ungrateful deceived enslaved to various lusts and pleasures sending our lives spending our lives in malice and envy hateful hating one another but but when the kindness of god our savior and his love for mankind appeared and saved us not on the basis of good deeds which we did in righteousness but on the basis of good deeds which we did in righteousness but on the basis of good deeds but according to His mercy by the washing of the rebirth and renewing by the Holy Spirit that He poured upon us richly through Jesus Christ. No, Paul told us," [00:58:04]
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