Text: 1 Peter 2:13-17 (NRSV)

13 For the Lord’s sake accept the authority of every human institution, whether of the emperor as supreme, 14 or of governors, as sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing right you should silence the ignorance of the foolish. 16 As servantsf of God, live as free people, yet do not use your freedom as a pretext for evil. 17 Honor everyone. Love the family of believers. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

I.        Introduction:

II.      Observe The Christian and His Country: A Dutiful Conformity

A.      A Loyal Subject

1.       A Subject Obedient For God

2.       A Subject Obedient to Man

B.      A Law Abiding Citizen

1.       Under Authority: A Legitimate Ruler

2.       Under Observation: A Legitimate Representative

a)       A Delegated Official

b)       A Deputized Official

(1)     Punishing the Wrong

(2)     Praising the Right

III.   Observe The Christian and His Influence: A Definite Strategy

A.      Designed to Accomplish God’s Will

B.      Designed to Silence Man’s Ignorance

1.       By Doing the Right Thing

2.       By Exercising Freedom

a)       The Possession of Freedom

b)       The Abuse of Freedom

c)       The Surrender of Freedom

IV.    Observe The Christian and His Conduct: A Detailed Inventory

A.      General Regard: Society

B.      Special Love: Church

C.      Reverential Fear: God

D.      Political Respect: Rulers

V.      Conclusion: