Living as Free People: Using Freedom to Honour God - 1 Peter 2:15-16
Introduction
Today we’re diving into a powerful passage from 1 Peter 2:15-16, which speaks directly to how we live out our faith in the world around us. Peter, writing to early believers who faced persecution and challenges, is encouraging them—and us—to use our freedom in Christ wisely, to honour God in all things.
Let’s read our passage in the New Living Translation:
“It is God’s will that your honourable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil.” (1 Peter 2:15-16, NLT)
These verses carry a vital message: as followers of Jesus, we’re called to live honourably, using our freedom not for selfish gain but for God’s glory. This morning, we’ll unpack what it means to live as free people who honour God through our actions.
1. Living to Silence Ignorant Accusations
Peter starts by saying, “It is God’s will that your honourable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you.” Here, Peter is addressing accusations from people who don’t understand or even oppose the Christian faith. The word “honourable” here, in Greek (kalos), means not only good in quality but also morally excellent and beautiful. It’s a life that reflects integrity and grace.
When we live honourably, it becomes a testimony that can silence those who misunderstand or criticise our faith. We are called to be witnesses not only through our words but through our actions, showing a character that reflects Christ.
Matthew 5:16 (NLT) says, “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Jesus taught that our good works should point others to God, not to ourselves. By living well, we bear witness to God’s love and truth.
Imagine a garden in the midst of a concrete city. People may criticise or ignore it, but the fragrance of the flowers and the beauty of the plants speak for themselves. Our lives should be like that garden, a quiet testimony of God’s love and goodness, drawing people to the truth of Jesus.
John MacArthur says, “A life of obedience silences the critics of Christianity. When believers demonstrate their transformation, it is difficult for others to accuse them of hypocrisy.” Our lives are often the first and most powerful message people hear.
Think about your own life: does it reflect God’s goodness in a way that would silence accusations? Consider ways you can honour God more fully in your everyday actions, whether at work, home, or in your community. Let’s aim to live with such integrity that our lives themselves become testimonies of God’s truth.
2. Understanding True Freedom in Christ
Peter says, “For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil.” In Christ, we are set free from the bondage of sin, but Peter reminds us that this freedom is not a licence to sin. The Greek word for “free” here (eleutheros) implies a freedom from bondage. But as Christians, we have a responsibility to use our freedom wisely.
Peter calls us “God’s slaves,” which seems contradictory at first—how can we be both free and slaves? But here’s the beauty: we are free from sin so we can serve God. We’re not enslaved by guilt, shame, or worldly pressures but willingly give ourselves to God as a living sacrifice.
Galatians 5:13 (NLT) echoes this truth: “For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.” True freedom in Christ is about serving others and honouring God, not indulging selfish desires.
Imagine a bird freed from its cage. It doesn’t just sit on the ground; it flies to new heights. We, too, are meant to soar in God’s purposes, not to return to the “ground” of selfishness or sin.
Charles Stanley once said, “Liberty in Christ is not freedom to sin, but freedom from sin.” True freedom empowers us to walk in God’s ways.
Ask yourself, “How am I using my freedom?” Are there areas where you’ve been tempted to use freedom as an excuse for complacency or compromise? Let’s use our freedom to serve and to live in a way that honours God.
3. Reflecting God’s Character Through Honourable Actions
When Peter speaks of living honourably, he’s calling us to a lifestyle that mirrors God’s character. In a world filled with corruption and selfish ambition, Christians are called to stand out by living with honesty, integrity, and compassion. This lifestyle of honour doesn’t mean we live for the praise of others; rather, we live to reflect God’s nature.
Romans 12:2 (NLT) says, “Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” This transformation in how we think and act sets us apart as people who live not for earthly rewards but for God’s approval.
Think of a diamond held up to the light. It reflects light in all directions, showing its beauty. When we live honourably, we’re like that diamond reflecting God’s glory into the world.
Rick Warren says, “Your character is essentially the sum of your habits. It is the result of the choices you make consistently.” Honourable living is about those everyday choices that add up to a life that points to Jesus.
Consider your daily actions. Are there small areas where you could reflect God’s love more fully? Whether it’s showing kindness, speaking truth, or living with integrity, let’s strive to reflect God’s character each day.
4. Using Our Freedom to Serve and Build God’s Kingdom
When Peter speaks of being “God’s slaves,” he’s using the Greek term doulos, which means “bond-servant” or “one who willingly serves.” Though we are free in Christ, we are called to submit to God’s will, choosing servanthood over self-interest. Serving God means aligning our actions with His purposes.
Matthew 20:28 (NLT) says, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus, the ultimate example, chose servanthood over self-interest, demonstrating the true purpose of our freedom.
Imagine a doctor who has trained for years to help others. He doesn’t use his skills to harm but to heal. Similarly, our freedom in Christ isn’t for selfish gain but for building His Kingdom and helping others.
Francis Chan says, “True joy comes when we abandon ourselves for the purposes of God.” Serving in freedom brings joy, purpose, and fulfilment as we live for something greater than ourselves.
This week, look for ways to use your freedom to serve others. Maybe it’s reaching out to a neighbour, encouraging someone who’s struggling, or volunteering. Serving brings us into closer alignment with God’s heart.
5. Letting Our Lives Be a Witness to God’s Truth
As Peter says, living honourably silences accusations and shows the world a different way of life. By standing out in our character and actions, we bear witness to the transforming power of Jesus. When we live in a way that honours God, others can see the impact of God’s love.
Colossians 3:17 (NLT) says, “And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.” Everything we do can be a testimony that points others to Jesus.
Imagine a lighthouse standing on a rocky shore. In the darkness, it provides direction and hope. When we live for God, we become that beacon, shining His light for others to see.
Let’s commit to letting our actions speak louder than our words. May our lives be a testimony of God’s truth and love in a world that desperately needs both.
Conclusion: Choosing Honourable Living as a Testimony of Faith
Today, we’ve seen that God calls us to use our freedom wisely, to live in a way that reflects His character, and to serve Him with all our hearts. True freedom isn’t about self-indulgence; it’s about honouring God, serving others, and reflecting His love.
Call to Action:
Let’s go out this week determined to live honourably, to serve others, and to use our freedom for God’s purposes. Ask God for the courage and strength to live in a way that silences accusations and reflects His goodness.
Invitation to Faith:
If you’ve never accepted Jesus as your Saviour, I invite you to experience the freedom He offers. He died for you, rose again, and invites you to live a life of purpose, peace, and freedom in Him. Accept His love today and let Him transform your life.
