Scripture of the Month

May, 2004

“Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.”-I Peter 3:8

We studied who we are—a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God—last month. In the same verse, we are reminded that our primary goal is to declare the praises of Him who delivered us out of darkness into the marvelous light. Peter continued to show us that the best way to declare the praises of God is to live a good life among pagans, so that they may glorify God when they see our good deeds.

Good deed includes, but not limited to, being submissive to every authority instituted among men ( 2:13 ). To be law-abiding citizens is a duty of Christians. It was difficult for the Christians in the first century to follow this instruction because they were severely persecuted by the Roman government. It is just as difficult for us today to live in a society that is blatantly against biblical principles. We can certainly voice our opinion, but it must be done within the legislating boundaries. We can criticize others for not keeping the laws while we do the same, only that we do it in the name of God, which I believe is even worse. We must have faith that God is the God of history.

Then Peter gave a “household code” for slaves, wives, and husbands that was similar to Paul’s instruction, except Peter further explained that Christ suffered for our sake was an example for us to follow ( 2:21 ). Peter asked slaves and wives to submit to their masters, and husbands should not be misled to think that God ordained a slavery system and favored a male-chauvinistic society. He simply addressed to the culture of time. Peter also asked husbands to be considerate to their wives, which in itself was noble, because wives at that time were only treated as properties, not people with value.

After telling Christians to be submissive under the authorities of the society and how to live as family members, Peter now turned his attention to good living within the church. Finally, all of you—all who would hear the reading of his letter, live in harmony (to be like-minded), be sympathetic (put yourself in someone else’s shoe), love as brothers (care that leads to action), compassionate (more intense than just having sympathy), and humble (not having the urge to show-off). These are Christian characters to be formed, not a “do” list. If all the members of a church have these characters, it will be healthy church.