Submission
Day 667, Tuesday, June 9
1 Peter 2:11 – 3:7
The New International Version heading for this section is “Living Godly Lives in a Pagan Society.” Headings, like chapter and verse divisions, are not part of the original text and aren’t actually scripture—in this case, though, it’s right on target.
We also live in a society that is more pagan than Christian. The appropriate Christian response outlined here is something that doesn’t come easily to 21st-century Americans: humble submission “to every human authority.”
Submission to human authority is not a denial of the freedom we have in Christ, but is a way of not bringing his name into disrepute. “For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 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.”
Showing respect, particularly to political leaders, is not a common feature of modern society—you won’t hear these words quoted a lot in public discourse.
The examples that follow are also not comfortable for modern readers. Talk of slaves submitting to masters and wives submitting to husbands runs counter to our understanding of what is just and right.
The author notes in 2:21-25 that Jesus also suffered injustice and wrongdoing. “When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” The reader is encouraged to learn from this. “But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.”
Sadly, some use these verses and others like them to manipulate people to stay in situations where they are being victimized. These words are encouragement for those who cannot get out from under injustice—they aren’t a free pass for those who commit the injustice. We can encourage people to forgive while also supporting them in getting out of destructive relationships and conditions.
While not as clear as the call to mutuality we read in Ephesians chapter 5, the writer of 1 Peter does follow this section with, “Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
Tuesday meditation
Psalms 138:1-8
I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing your praise. I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness, for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame. When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me.
May all the kings of the earth praise you, Lord, when they hear what you have decreed. May they sing of the ways of the Lord, for the glory of the Lord is great.
Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me. The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of your hands.
Prayer focus
Grant us patience to endure, and the grace to respect those in positions of responsibility. Bring your justice, Lord.
-Rev. Mark Fleming