Read the Word: 1 Peter 2:11-17
Meditate on the Word:
It was not easy living as a Christian in the early church. Officially, Christianity was illegal. Subjects of Rome were required to worship Caesar as god. While the Jews were allowed to practice their religion, no such exception was made for Christians. They were enemies of the state for not worshiping the Emperor, but they were also considered blasphemers by the Jews. Followers of Christ were subject to being beaten, tortured, shut out of the economy, and even killed. Simply for following Christ.
Yet, the apostle Peter, who arguably was closer to Jesus than any of the apostles, does not urge Christians to fight for their rights. Instead, Peter commands them to behave honorably, do good, and submit to human authority. Peter is not naïve: He knows that Christians will be slandered. Yet, he says in verse 15, “For it is God’s will that you silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing good.” Even in a time and place when Peter will be killed by the whim of an evil emperor, he commands the church to do good.
In our divided political climate, many like to spout rhetoric about oppression of Christians. And certainly we do not have it as easy as in previous generations. But the will of the Lord is still the same: that we would conduct ourselves honorably so that our good works will be observed.
Pray the Word:
Ask the Lord how you can show His love to others today. Resolve to do what He reveals to you.
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