"Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor." (1 Peter 1:13-17) It is very clear by Peter's words in our text, what kind of people we are to be. We are to be law-abiding, and respectful, of those who are in authority. Last week the Supreme Court's decision to legalize same-sex marriages in all 50 states, challenges this position. Many who hold to the traditional view of marriage between a man and a woman will be called to abide by the ruling. If they, don't, will they be going against what Peter writes here? To me this is a ruling that is against the Word, and will of God, who is the supreme authority. Peter says two words in our text, that defines what our position should be: "Fear God". In other words, we are to obey the moral standards of God's Word, first and foremost. But that being said, we are to still stand in love, and respect, not in selfishness, hatred, and hostility. When a law comes in conflict with the law of God, we are called to honor everyone. We are to love the brotherhood, honor the emperor (or president) but most of all, we are to "Fear God", and
"In love" stand up for His truth! GP
Photo by imagerymajestic. Published on 23 November 2012
www.freedigitalphotos.net
