1 Peter 3:14 But
even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear
what they fear, and do not be intimidated. (NRSV)
Fear is the instrument
that manipulators use to control people. In Roman times, when the apostle Peter
was writing this letter, fear was the weapon that the Emperor used to keep his
opponents silent and the people subdued. Whenever Caesar issued a threat it
made the politicians and population cower. The fear of reprisals negated any
opposition, so the Emperor could do what he liked.
Christians, however, in
those days, were willing to speak out and suffer for their faith. They did not
surrender their souls to the Empire or totally submit to Caesar’s authority.
They stood up for what was right and even though it cost them everything, they
were not willing to exchange or compromise Christ’s teaching for peaceful lives
and expedient results. They understood that to be disciples of Christ meant
that their allegiance was to a higher authority, law, and kingdom.
Application: Am I guilty
of compromising my faith? Does Jesus have my total allegiance?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we
try to be Your disciples and hope that we please You with our lives. Grant us
the courage of the First Christians and help us to stand up for justice, mercy,
and love. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.
John Stuart is the pastor
of Erin
Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Come and join us for worship each Sunday at 11:00 AM. You will be made very
welcome 😊
Today’s image is one of
John’s latest Holy Week drawings called ‘Son Set.’ If you would like to view a
larger version, please click this link: Son Set.
No comments:
Post a Comment