1 Peter 2: 16-17
Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.
As children of God, and believers in Jesus Christ, we have many freedoms. We have free will, and can (and do) make all kinds of choices on our own every day. But this does not mean we are free to do as we please, act on every whim, and ignore the rules and laws of our society. God expects much more from us. Although we are free, we have God’s commandments (and man’s laws) to follow.
Holy Lord, you have given me free will, but I know this is not a free pass to do whatever I feel like doing. There are written and unwritten rules and laws which must be followed. The closer I grow to you, the better I can make good choices. Amen
Becky, transforming
1 Peter 2:16-17
We often hear the phrase “Freedom is not free.” While it refers to those who gave their lives in war, the freedom of our “free will” is similar. God has provided us with free will but he knew us well enough to provide “laws or rules” to guide us to use our freedom properly. He never intended us to be free to do evil things but to do good in his name.
Gracious God, may we always remember the sacrifice Jesus has made so we may have everlasting life. Amen
1 Peter 2: 16-17
Years ago, I preached a sermon on this text titled “Free to be a Slave.” The word, “slave” is jarring to the modem mind, but being a slave to God is not living a state of oppression. Respect and love of others and practicing good and honorable citizenship are liberating in a way that selfishness and licentiousness can never be. The latter never meet our deepest needs and demand more and more, while the former offer contentment and inner peace.
Prayer - Lord God, in You I find freedom at its most pure and honorable form. I pray that the Hoy Spirit leads me to respect, love and honor legitimate earthly authority in my daily affairs…