Christians Living among Non-Christians

Peter’s teaching on how Christians living among non-Christians should behave is found in 1 Peter 2:9 – 25. There, he described Christians as a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, who are called out of darkness into the marvelous light of God, and who have received the mercy of God. As God’s own people living amidst Gentiles, Peter encouraged Christians to maintain good conduct in order to silence those who speak against them. By living exemplary lives, Christians give glory to God.

Peter further advised Christians to be subject to every human institution such as the emperor or governors, since such people are in place to punish wrongdoers and praise those who do right. Christians are to honour all men, love the brotherhood, and fear God.

Servants are to submit to their masters in all areas – this applies not only to the kind and gentle ones, but even to the difficult ones. For Peter, there is no gain in suffering for an offence one has indeed committed, but one is approved of God when he suffers patiently for a thing he did in a right manner.

The suffering of Jesus serves as an example for Christians. Christ committed no sin and uttered no evil words. When he was abused, criticized and condemned, he did not retaliate. He did not threaten his tormentors but trusted in God who is the Righteous Judge to vindicate him. Jesus Christ, in this way, bore the sins of man on the cross that Christians might be free from sin and live in righteousness.

For Peter’s teaching on interpersonal relationship among Christians, click here.