Obedience And Holiness
Many of us can recall the time before our new life in Jesus when we walked in darkness, unaware of the light of Christ. Before Christ, there were seasons where we were slaves to our own ignorance and the futile pursuits of the things of the world.
But then a glorious transformation occurred. We encountered the living hope (1 Peter 1:3) found in Jesus Christ. Through His resurrection, we were born anew, welcomed into the family of God, a hope anticipated by prophets of old. In this transformation we were given a new identity that defines us as heirs of God's promises.
As children of God, our lives are to reflect the holiness of our Heavenly Father. We are called to walk in obedience, abstaining from the sinful desires that once enslaved us. Living honorably among unbelievers, our actions should point others to glorify God.
With walking in holiness in mind, I want to address living out our new identity in our polarized world. Particularly as it pertains to politics where Scripture calls believers to be in submission to God’s ordained authority. (1 Peter 2:13)
“Be subject to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.”
Peter instructs us to submit to every human institution, recognizing that such submission is an act of reverence to God Himself. For it is God who ordains authority to uphold justice and restrain evil in society.
While the bible acknowledges the fallen nature of human authority, Peter underscores the divine principle behind its establishment. Even in the face of potential corruption, our submission to just laws reflect our ultimate allegiance to God's sovereignty.
Clearly our obedience to authority does not extend to commands that contradict God's law. In such instances, we are called to follow the example of biblical heroes like Daniel (Daniel 1), who chose obedience to God over earthly rulers recognizing that it is God who will judge the world is His due time.
“Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.” (Acts 17:31)
In obedience to Christ, we must embrace the call to holy living in every aspect of our lives.
Even when it might not feel good to do so we must submit our will to His will. Whether in our personal relationships or our response to civil authority, our actions should be guided by the principles of righteousness and the fear of the Lord. In doing so, we testify to the transformative power of Christ and His kingdom, shining light in a darkened world.
Father, guide me in cultivating a spirit of humility and respect towards those in positions of authority. Enable me to represent You well in a world overshadowed by darkness, allowing the light of Christ to shine through my actions. Grant me the discernment to recognize those who are in need of Your gospel message. I am grateful for Your abundant love and compassionate mercy towards me. In Jesus name - Amen.
Credit: Ron Kelley
But then a glorious transformation occurred. We encountered the living hope (1 Peter 1:3) found in Jesus Christ. Through His resurrection, we were born anew, welcomed into the family of God, a hope anticipated by prophets of old. In this transformation we were given a new identity that defines us as heirs of God's promises.
As children of God, our lives are to reflect the holiness of our Heavenly Father. We are called to walk in obedience, abstaining from the sinful desires that once enslaved us. Living honorably among unbelievers, our actions should point others to glorify God.
With walking in holiness in mind, I want to address living out our new identity in our polarized world. Particularly as it pertains to politics where Scripture calls believers to be in submission to God’s ordained authority. (1 Peter 2:13)
“Be subject to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.”
Peter instructs us to submit to every human institution, recognizing that such submission is an act of reverence to God Himself. For it is God who ordains authority to uphold justice and restrain evil in society.
While the bible acknowledges the fallen nature of human authority, Peter underscores the divine principle behind its establishment. Even in the face of potential corruption, our submission to just laws reflect our ultimate allegiance to God's sovereignty.
Clearly our obedience to authority does not extend to commands that contradict God's law. In such instances, we are called to follow the example of biblical heroes like Daniel (Daniel 1), who chose obedience to God over earthly rulers recognizing that it is God who will judge the world is His due time.
“Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.” (Acts 17:31)
In obedience to Christ, we must embrace the call to holy living in every aspect of our lives.
Even when it might not feel good to do so we must submit our will to His will. Whether in our personal relationships or our response to civil authority, our actions should be guided by the principles of righteousness and the fear of the Lord. In doing so, we testify to the transformative power of Christ and His kingdom, shining light in a darkened world.
Father, guide me in cultivating a spirit of humility and respect towards those in positions of authority. Enable me to represent You well in a world overshadowed by darkness, allowing the light of Christ to shine through my actions. Grant me the discernment to recognize those who are in need of Your gospel message. I am grateful for Your abundant love and compassionate mercy towards me. In Jesus name - Amen.
Credit: Ron Kelley
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