Submission: The Duty Of All Christians

Introduction

By this time throughout the Empire were suffering increasingly severe persecution. Previously the Roman authorities seem to have regarded Christianity as a movement with Judaism. This meant that it was protected by Law, for Judaism was a legal religion. But officials and common people alike were now becoming aware that there were vast differences between Judaism and Christianity.

But opposition to Christians intensified rapidly. People in general considered them to be anti-social because of their refusal to join in social practices that they considered idolatrous and immoral. It was probably just before the outbreak of this greater that Peter wrote this letter to the persecuted Christians of Northern Asia Minor to encourage them to bear their persecution with patience. They should cooperate with God’s purpose by obeying civil authorities. Right conduct by Christians is also very important factor that prevent criticisms from the opponent.

Submission of Christians in all aspects of life is an important weapon against criticisms. It is also the most effective method of evangelizing unbelievers even today. People are watching most of the time not to the teachings about God but the changed lives of an individual who committed to Him. Proper behavior will not only listen the watching unbelievers and appreciate the greatness of their God but most of all will enable to obey the will of God to those who put their trust on Him.

I. THE DUTY CONCERNING THEIR AUTHORITIES (2:13-17)

A. Be an Obedient Citizen of Earthly Authorities (13-14)

1. Because they are sent by God (14a)

2. Because they exist to protect you from harm (14b)

B. Be an Obedient Citizen of heavenly Authorities (15-17)

1. Because you are commanded by God [to do right] (15)

2. Because you are called for a Godly living (16-17)

II. THE DUTY CONCERNING THEIR MARTERS (18-25)

A. Be Respectful to Godly Masters (18)

1. Because they are your brethren (see 1 Tim. 6:2a)

2. because they are partakers of the same benefit as beloved (1 Tim. 6:2b)

B. Be Respectful to Ungodly Masters (18-25)

1. Because this finds favor with God (19-20)

2. Because you have been called to follow the examples of Christ (21-25)

III. THE DUTY CONCERNING THEIR HOMES (3:1-7)

A. Wives - Be Submissive to Husbands (1-6)

1. Analyze your ACTIONS (1-2)

2. Watch your ADORNMENTS (3)

3. Check your ATTITUDES (4)

4. Evaluate your ATTENTIONS (5-6)

B. Husbands - Be Considerate With Your Wives

1. LIVE with your wife (7a)

2. KNOW your wife (7b)

3. HONOR your wife (7c)

IV. THE DUTY CONCERNING THEIR CHURCH (3:8-12)

A. Be in the Spirit of harmony with Each other (8)

B. Be a Blessings to All (9)

C. Be Zealous in Doing Good (10-12)