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

2. “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)

3. “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

4. “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

5. 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