THEMES FROM SELECTED EPISTLES a) Relate Peter's teaching on submission to authority ( 8 marks ) b) State seven ways a Christain can be a good citizen ( 7 ma...

Answer Details

(a) Peter's teaching on submission to authority

In his first epistle, Peter taught Christians to live as obedient and law-abiding people so that their good conduct would silence critics and glorify God.

He wrote, "Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right." He explained that it is God's will that by doing right they should put to silence the ignorance of foolish men.

Peter told them to live as free men, yet not to use their freedom as a pretext (cover-up) for evil, but to live as servants of God. He summed up the Christian duties: "Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the emperor."

He also addressed servants, urging them to be submissive to their masters with all respect, not only to the kind and gentle but also to the overbearing. He taught that there is credit before God in enduring unjust suffering patiently, pointing to Christ, who suffered without sin and left an example that believers should follow in His steps. Thus Peter grounded submission to authority in reverence for God and in the example of Christ.

(b) Seven ways a Christian can be a good citizen

1. Obeying the laws of the land and constituted authority.
2. Paying taxes and other lawful dues honestly.
3. Praying for leaders and the peace of the nation.
4. Living peaceably and avoiding violence, riots and crime.
5. Being honest and avoiding corruption, bribery and fraud.
6. Respecting and honouring all people, including those in authority.
7. Performing civic duties such as voting, and contributing to community and national development.