Be Good, Not Just (1 Peter 2:13-17)

We are back inside our old home, New Traditions Elementary School! You can find more information about our Sunday gatherings on this page.

Summary

Today's text moves us into the heart of First Peter, which teaches Christians how to live in the face of slander. No matter the situation, Peter says the same thing: Do good. Christians are to be people who do good, no matter the circumstance. In a world that is awash with angry talk of justice, the church should be people who are zealous for doing good to their enemies because we were once God's enemies and He was good to us.

Text

1 Peter 2:13–17

Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. (ESV)