Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. 1 Peter 2:17 WEB
The apostle Peter writes this letter to churches in Asia Minor giving them advice on how to live as Christians. His advice is to follow the example of Jesus and live in submission to God and worldly authorities. In this scripture we study today, Peter summarizes how we conduct ourselves with four simple commands.
To begin, Peter says that we are to honor all men. This broad statement to honor all men is useful in our understanding of the teaching of Jesus. Christ says in Matthew 22:9, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself. WEB” Rather than picking and choosing who is worthy of our respect and honor, we are commanded by Christ to show honor and respect to all people.
When Peter says to love the brotherhood, he is writing about how we interact with fellow believers. Jesus commanded his followers to love one another. The Lord says in John 13:34, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just like I have loved you; that you also love one another. WEB” In obedience to Christ, we actively give service and make sacrifices for our brothers and sisters in faith.
Put God First
Next, Peter says we are to fear God. The fear of God is a healthy respect and reverence for the Lord. It means that we live in submission to his will. In obedience to the word and will of God, we honor God with our devotion and service to his purpose. In other words, we put God first in our lives as the ultimate authority that he is.
Finally, the apostle writes that we are to honor the king. This is a call to submit to worldly authority. Jesus makes clear that God gives men the authority that they have. Responding to Pilot in John 19:11 Christ says, “You would have no power at all against me, unless it were given to you from above. Therefore, he who delivered me to you has greater sin. WEB”
When we follow these four simple statements, we honor God, living in obedience to his word and will. We are following the example set by Christ when we show proper respect to all people.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the truth of your holy word. Thank you for the simplicity of your commands. Forgive me for falling short of your standards. Give me wisdom and strength to honor you and to honor all men. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: God Is for Us
