Title: The Witness of Our Submission
Descript.: A Sermon on 1Pet. 2:11-25 - One of a series
Text: 1Pe 2:11-25
Usage: Preached January 10, 1993 PM at SDCC
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A. INTRO
America is not the worlds only "melting pot" -- all societies
have the ability (to varying degrees) of mingling, combining, and
merging different cultures. This has often proven true to the
detriment of God's people as they have lost their distinctiveness to
the pagan cultures around them. Consider Israel.
Christians today lose their distinctiveness all to easily to a
pagan culture. But Peter says that should not be -- we are to live as
aliens and strangers. And the chief distinguishing characteristic of
the lifestyle he begins to describe is SUBMISSION. By its
cultivation, we set an example for the world which even pagans will
have to admire.
B. BODY -- The Witness of Our Submission
1. Submission to the Government
We ought to be meticulously law-abiding. No pilfering,
cheating on taxes, speeding, etc. etc.
God would have us be so absolutely law-abiding that even
"ignorant men" would be silenced!
Only exceptions: 1) Where government permits you to work
through the system. 2) Where government tries to prevent us from
obeying God's Law.
2. Appropriate Use of Our Freedoms & Rights
What is power commonly used for? Oneself! How many scandals
have we heard of in recent years where men used their freedom to
participate in government or business to advance themselves at the
expense of others? Keating 5, House Bank, House Post Office, etc.
Power corrupts, abs. power... But freedom can also corrupt.
As Christians we must never use our freedom, our rights, our
privileges, or our power as a cover-up for evil. We should be a
people of unquestioned INTEGRITY.
3. Attitude towards Suffering or Persecution
Submission to other authorities as well: Employers, etc. Fair
or unfair.
Commitment to doing right, no matter what.
Peace in suffering, trusting God who also suffered and is in
control
C. CONCLUSION
Entrust yourself to the one who judges justly! Return to your
Shepherd!
D. COMMENTS
Prepared by Scott L. Purcell
Minister of Stokelan Drive Christian Church
1501 Stokelan Drive
Malden, MO 63863
(314) 276-2343 daytime
(314) 276-4201 evening
Reproduce, modify, and use freely
for the glory of God and the Growth of the Kingdom!
If these outlines are of some benefit to you,
a note, postcard, or phone-call would be most welcome!
Index of Preacher's Help and Notes
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