DEMONSTRATION OF DISCIPLINE 1Peter2:12-3:7
NOTE: The Holy Spirit seems to have impressed upon Peter that the distinct lifestyle of believers can be used to draw people to
Christ (here in verse 12 and 1Peter3:1-2). Jesus taught likewise (Matthew5:16)
This is NOT to say that we have no need to be ready to give a verbal testimony of our Hope in Jesus alone by faith alone(1Peter3:15); but when the word are spoken, the demonstration will be used of God to bring people to Himself(1Corinthians14:24-25)(2Corinthians9:11-12).
Your Deportment (outward) should demonstrate your Discipline (inward). We will have to live lives that are more than just good. People here can out “good” you. Our action must be motivated by the blood of Jesus, God's love, His calling, and submission for the commendation of the Lord.
Citizens of heaven – by heavenly authority...but...Sojourners on earth – authorities here are (as with everything) heaven-appointed Romans13:1-7. vv.13-14
Submit yourself (hupotasso) v.13 for the purpose of showing-off Jesus. Submission is missing from most goodness, especially worldly goodness.
Lining yourself up in formation under the commander.
Free – made so by the Son of God John8:32,36...but...Willing servants of God v.16 Colossians3:24; Ephesians6:6 (from the heart – the new one given you when you received Jesus as Savior)
Honor all
Love the brotherhood
Fear God
Honor the king/ruler v.13
Submission - What does it look like? Where do you do it...in what situations? Can you live that way today? What difference does it make?
What does it look like?
Philippians 2:4-8 Jesus made himself an obedient servant.
John 13:3-16 Jesus took a towel, a basin, and water and began to wash His disciples' feet.
1Peter 2:22-24 Jesus committed Himself/entrusted Himself to God, who judges righteously.
It looks like confidence enough in the wisdom, power, judgment of God to make yourself line up under someone else.
Where do you do it?
Under earthly government v.13
to an employer v.18
to a husband 1Peter 3:1
to church elders Hebrews 13:17
to one another Ephesians 5:21
Can you live that way today? What about Galatians 3:28? In terms of function, not essence or value.
1Corinthians 11:3 versus John 10:30; John 1:1 Jesus says: “All authority is given to Me in heaven and in earth.” Matthew28:18 But also says: “My food is to do the will of Him that sent Me.” John 4:34 God's design demanded that the Son's function be to submit to the Father in the beautiful act of humiliation,though in essence and nature Christ and God are the same.
In marriage, husband functions as head ... though there is mutual submission and complimentarianism. 1Corinthians7:3-Husband render due benevolence. Ephesians5:22, 1Peter3:1- “your own husband.” - not all men but to the one you possess.
What difference does it make?
Testifies to unbelievers and glorifies God 1Peter2:12, 3:1
Precious / of great price to God 3:4 (I.e. Mark13:3 alabaster box)
Reverses the curse of Genesis 3:16 (see Genesis 4:7)
Unites the body of Christ, the church (universal and local) 1Corinthians 11:33(the instruction); 1Cor.10:16-17(the aim)
Follows Jesus' command and His example
Salvation and participation in the kingdom and body of Christ when you submit His plan for your life. Mark 8:34,ff
