(a) Highlight Peter's advice to Christians living among non-Christians (b) In what three ways can Christians promote good relationship with non-Christians?

Answer Details

(a) Peter's advice to Christians living among non-Christians (1 Peter 2:11-17; 3:8-17)

Peter counselled the believers, whom he called aliens and exiles, on how to live among unbelievers:

• They should abstain from the passions of the flesh that war against the soul.
• They should maintain good conduct among the Gentiles, so that though accused of doing wrong, the outsiders may see their good deeds and glorify God.
• They should be subject to every lawful human authority, whether the emperor or governors, for the Lord's sake, and by doing right silence the ignorance of foolish men.
• They should honour all men, love the brotherhood, fear God and honour the emperor.
• They should have unity of spirit, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart and a humble mind.
• They should not return evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but bless instead, for to this they were called.
• They should always be prepared to make a defence to anyone who asks a reason for the hope that is in them, yet do so with gentleness and reverence, keeping a clear conscience.
• If they must suffer, it is better to suffer for doing right than for doing wrong.

(b) Three ways Christians can promote good relationship with non-Christians

• By living an exemplary, honest and loving life that reflects Christ and wins the respect of others.
• By showing kindness, tolerance and readiness to help non-Christians in their needs.
• By avoiding provocation and returning good for evil, thus living peaceably with all people.