You and Your Government… “For the Lord’s Sake” 1 Peter 2:13-17

“For the Lord’s Sake” Submit – Be a Law-Abiding Citizen (2:13-14) God commands us to place ourselves under subjection to “every” governing authority (cf. Rom. 13:1) Resisting governing authority resists God’s will & brings judgment (Rom. 13:2) ONLY when edicts of men conflict with the law of God can we respectfully disregard (Acts 5:27-29; 4:19-20) WHY must I submit to government and abide by the laws? Because of God – “for the Lord’s sake” (2:13) Because they are ordained of God (Ro. 13:1; Dan. 2:21; 4:17) Because they have a God-given purpose (2:14; Rom. 13:4)

“For the Lord’s Sake” Serve – Be a Good-Doing Example (2:15-16) God commands us to live as bondservants (2:16) Set an example of “good” and “right,” in spite of those in authority over us (Rom. 13:3-4) WHY must I serve humbly and set the right example? Because of God – “this is the will of God” (2:15) Because you are free in Christ from law, sin and fear (2:16) Because you may silence the critics by doing good

“For the Lord’s Sake” Step Up – Be a Respect-Giving Christian (2:17) IT IS TIME for Christians to STOP acting like everyone else! God commands us to “honor ALL people,” including “the king” These attitudes and actions are to be constantly maintained WHY must I be the one to step up and be respectful of all? Because of God – “Fear God” Because of my love for my brethren, lest I cause to stumble

To Be a Citizen of Heaven Believe Jesus is God’s Son – Mark 16:16 Repent of your sins and turn to God – Acts 2:38 Confess your faith in Jesus – Romans 10:9-10 Be immersed into Christ – Galatians 3:27 God will wash away all of your sins – Acts 22:16 God will add you to His church – Acts 2:47 God will register you in heaven – Hebrews 12:23 Walk faithfully with the Lord – 1 John 1:7