Christians, out of a love for God, are to be subject to human institutions of authority. This will be used of God to accomplish His will. Namely, that such submission will silence our opponents and gain a hearing for the Gospel. Key to this is a love for God. Human authority is fallen and if you look to it to earn your obedience, you may never submit. Yet, for those who love God, the motive is already in place. Believers love God, are willing to obey Him, and are willing to submit so as to gain a hearing for the Gospel. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: 1 Peter 2:13-17.
How you live your life matters. The Bible makes the connection between your life and your evangelism. Those who live honorably before others may gain a hearing for the great God they proclaim. But, right living is not merely a matter of trying your best. Like all of life, it is dependent upon God. When God grants new birth the convert sees God’s glory, loves Him and seeks to obey Him. The outflow of this is an honorable life before men, which may be used by God to gain a hearing for the Good News we proclaim. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: 1 Peter 2:11-12.
One of the special benefits of saving faith is incorporation into the family of God. Think of that, God is in your family – He is your Father. All this, to a rebellious person who deserves only punishment for sin. Yet, this is all part of God’s mercy – He is your merciful Father. God has made Christians His people in order that they may proclaim His excellencies. God is glorious and worthy of worship. In our sin and darkness we did not see this about God. Yet, God saved us and brought us to see the light of His glory. Now we must proclaim the truth – God is excellent and worthy of our praise. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: 1 Peter 2:9-10.