(a) Explain Peter's concept of a good citizen. (b) Identify any three qualities of a good citizen

Answer Details

(a) Peter’s concept of a good citizen

Peter taught Christians to be subject, for the Lord’s sake, to every human institution. They were to respect the emperor as the supreme earthly authority and also obey governors and other rulers appointed to punish wrongdoers and commend those who do right. Such submission was not merely out of fear of punishment but because it was the will of God.

He explained that Christians should do good so that they might silence the ignorant accusations of foolish people. They were to live honourable lives among non-believers and avoid sinful desires which wage war against the soul.

Peter also taught that Christians were free, but they must not use their freedom as an excuse for evil. Rather, they should live as servants of God. He therefore urged them to honour all people, love the brotherhood of Christians, fear God and honour the emperor.

Thus, Peter’s good citizen is one who obeys lawful authority, does good, lives as a servant of God and shows proper respect to others and to those in authority.

(b) Three qualities of a good citizen

(i) He should be obedient and subject to lawful authorities and institutions.

(ii) He should do good and live an honourable life before others.

(iii) He should not use his freedom as a pretext for evil but should live as a servant of God.

(iv) He should honour all people and respect those in authority.

(v) He should love fellow believers and fear God.