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1 Peter 2:13 – 24
We invite you to join us for worship each Sunday morning at 9:30. You can download our service on iTunes or tune in for “The Good Word” each day on AM 1230 WSAL or on Hoosier Country 103.7 FM just after 8am. As you read this passage, does the idea of submission, evangelism, or God’s will come to mind? Think about this, can there be any one of those without the other? What makes submission so repulsive to us as humans? Read 1 Cor. 5:16-21, then read what could be Peter’s commentary on that passage in 1:2-5. As Christians, we are no longer unacceptable to God because we are made to be new creatures in Christ Jesus. In that light let’s consider
- THE CONCEPT OF SUBMISSION! If Adam and Eve had never sinned would there be submission? Yes, because submission is not a result of sin, it is a result of creation! From God’s perspective creation is not punishment, it is protection. One reason God told Adam and Eve not to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil is to protect them from all things evil. Before the Fall there was no need for punishment, because there was no sin! In salvation, our hearts and minds can view submission as delightful, pleasant, and a desirable way of living. One indicator of your true attitude toward all things of God is how you view the concept of submission; is it pleasant or drudgery? Consider
- THE COMMAND TO SUBMIT! In v. 15 when Peter says “It is God’s will that we do good” he is ultimately saying it is good to submit. Remember, we must always look at what God says from His perspective. Because all God tells us is good, then when He tells us to submit, it is good! It is only within the realm of submission to God that we receive the blessings of salvation. If you have given your honestly heart to the Lord you know it is easier to live a life of submission, than it is to live a life of rebellion. Read Prov. 15:33; 18:12; 22:4 to learn God’s idea of living in submission. It is easier to let God lead you through the darkness to where He wants you, than it is for you to grope your way through darkness while not knowing where you are or where you are going!
- SOME CONCLUSIONS ABOUT SUBMISSION! Peter’s point is not just v. 15. Look at v. 13 and see submission is for the Lord’s sake. One of the most compelling reasons to submit is because the Lord Jesus lived His entire earthly life submitted to His Father. It is normal that a true Christian should submit to their heavenly Father. Peter tells us submission silences foolish men. Ignorance from God’s perspective is many things, but can be summarized as a deliberate hardness of heart out of ignorance. It is not what one would expect from a true Christian. Finally, Peter tells us submission will bring to us commendation before God. Commendation from God is proper because it comes only to a humble heart that recognizes God’s sovereign authority and guidance in one’s life. Submission done God’s way is not burdensome or demanding. Try it, you will grow to like it!
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