Submit for the Lord’s Sake | 1 Peter 2:13-17
This study explores the challenging doctrine of submission to civil authorities. It is not challenging because it is hard to understand. Peter’s commands are straightforward and clear. It is challenging because it is often hard to obey. However, with the command comes clear motivation as to why submission is spiritually significant along with the practical implications for believers living as sojourners in the world. In this study we learn that Christians are to serve God by willingly submitting to civil authorities.
One hard command: Submit to civil authorities (v. 13)
Five compelling reasons why Christians can and must submit:
1) When we submit to civil authorities we are submitting to Christ (v. 14a)
2) Civil authorities are appointed by Christ (v. 14b)
3) Civil authorities act for Christ (v. 14b)
4) Submission silences fools (v. 15)
5) Submission declares freedom and not bondage (v. 16)
Two clarifying questions:
1) Do God’s plans fail if authorities don’t punish evil and reward good?
2) Is it ever right to disobey civil authority?