Manuscript Template
Title (written around problem being solved): How are Christians called to engage culture?
Problem I’m Trying to Solve / Answer:
Focus Statement: As Christians we are not called to fight a culture war, we are called to fight a war against our own sinful desires.
Function Statement: Live in such a way that people see the gospel through our actions.
Tweetable Phrase: The way we live within the world should reflect the gospel itself
Main Text: 1 Peter 2:11-25
Supporting Text:
Redemptive Closure (point to Jesus): Mark 8:34-35
Benediction: Titus 2:11-14
WELCOMEGood morning!!! My name is Ryan Hanson, and I have the honor of serving here at The Light KC as the lead pastor. I’m so glad you’re here with us.
Welcome to those joining us online. We hope you're doing well and hope to see you in person in the coming weeks.
And a special welcome to those joining us for the first time. We’re so glad you chose to be here.
ME/INTRO - TensionHave you every tried to convince somebody of something that you believed, but they did not?
I recently came across some Kansas history that I thought was amazing about someone trying to do just that.
Apparently Kansas outlawed the sale of alcohol back in 1881, way before the 18th amendment outlawed it nationally in 1920.
Well, I learned there was a 53 year old lady by the name of Carrie Nation, who had a husband that died from alcohol related illnesses who in 1900 did not appreciate that people did not see the risk in alcohol and were operating illegal saloons. She decided to make it her mission to get people to change their minds and stop drinking.
She took a hatchet and went from saloon to saloon smashing liquor bottles, mirrors, and bars.
She called her actions Hatchetations
Here is a picture of Carrie Nation
[Image: Carrie Nation]
Carrie Nation choose to use violence to change people’s beliefs.
She didn’t convince anyone to stop drinking or believe that alcohol was bad, but she was arrested 30 times.
As I was researching this, I ran across another story from a bit further back of a group that tried another tactic to change the beliefs of others.
In 1513, when the Spanish conquistadors came to the Americas, they brought with them a piece of paper called The Requerimiento.
When they came across the indigenous people, they read this document to them. Keep in mind they read it in Spanish.
It said that if they put their allegiance with the Pope and Spanish Crown, and accepted Christian teachings they would be left alone.
But if they didn’t, they would go to war with them and make them slaves.
They even required that their response be submitted in writing with a notary present.
This is how the letter ended.
“And that we have said this to you and made this Requisition, we request the notary here present to give us his testimony in writing, and we ask the rest who are present that they should be witnesses of this Requisition.”
The Spanish tried to get the indigenous people to believe in Jesus and be loyal to the Spanish Crown, but didn’t speak their language and put barriers in place that were unreasonable.
WE - TensionHave you ever tried to get someone to change their beliefs to line up with yours?
Maybe you tried to get a spouse to clean the way that you like the house cleaned
Maybe you tried to get your kids to do their work before they play
Maybe you tried to get a neighbor to keep up their lawn at a certain level
How did that work out? I know when I’ve tried, it is a battle.
It is easy to see why Carrie Nation turned to violence
At times it feels like I’m not even speaking the same language like the Conquistadors
It typically isn’t the end of the world if people don’t agree with us on some small things, but...
Have you ever tried to share your faith with someone?
Have you tried to convince someone who doesn’t believe in Jesus that Jesus is not only the Son of God, but that the life that He teaches is the BEST LIFE that they were created to live?
Has their response made you question if you were speaking the same language as them?
Hopefully you haven’t resulted to violence in sharing your faith?
These are the questions that Peter addressed today.
The first chapter of 1 Peter was where Peter gave us a doctrinal foundation.
He told us WHO we are - that our identity is found in Christ
He told us WHAT God has done for us - giving us a New Birth, a Living Hope, a Heavenly Inheritance, and Salvation
He told us HOW to live the life we were created to live - by Riding ourselves of sin, Craving a relationship with Jesus, and being and active part of a Christian Community.
If you missed the previous messages, please feel free go to our website, TheLightKC.org, to catch up.
As we get to 1 Peter 2:11, Peter transitions away from doctrine and moves into practical application.
Peter shifts from how WE can live the BEST LIVES that God created us to live to...
...how SHOULD WE LIVE in and among a society that doesn’t believe as we do.
A Quick Caveat:
Some of Today’s Conversation may be challenging.
As a church, it is not our job to avoid hard topics.
Sometimes we need to talk about hard topics.
Today we are going to talk about some hard topics; nationalism, politics, slavery, etc.
We’re going to talk about these on purpose, because as the church, our goal is to search God’s will for every aspect of our lives and do our best to align our lives with the teachings of the Bible.
If we discuss something that is uncomfortable for you...I ask that you don’t check out, sit with it, engage with it, pray about, and if you’d like come see me this week and we can talk about it.
As we begin, please turn with me to [1 Peter 2:11: Sanctuary Bible Page # 981]
We’ll have the scripture on the screen, but if you have a Bible with you, or Bible app on your phone, I’d encourage you to turn to the passage and follow along. There is nothing that replaces having God’s word in your hand.
AND... if you don’t have a Bible, we have Bibles under the seats. If you don’t have a bible and would like one, please come see me after the service and I’ll get you one you can keep.
Let's dive in.
GOD - Text - HEAD Wage War Against Your Soul 1 Peter 2:11 reads
“11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.”
The first things Peter tells us we need to do to live within a world that doesn’t believe the same things we believe is to aim at the right target.
Our enemy is a WHAT, not a WHO
This is where Peter addressed Christian Nationalism.
We are not fighting a culture war; We are fighting a war against our own sinful desires
As Christians, we are not called to be culture’s police, holding people accountable to beliefs and values that they never agreed to.
As Christians we are called to be merciful (Luke 6:36)
And if we choose to become the Christians that yell from soap boxes everything the world is doing wrong, we are not being merciful
It is only when we
go to war against our own sins
realize how underserving we are of the mercy that God has shown to us
that we can generously show mercy to others
So how do we GO TO WAR against our sinful desires?
It takes aggressive sustained effort
Colossians 3:5 “5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.”
We need to remove all temptations from our lives
2 Timothy 2:22 “22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
We need to rely on God’s grace as the only thing that can truly free us from sin’s grasp
Titus 2:11–12 “11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,”
It is common to hear the phrase (and I’ve said it myself), “Love the sinner, hate the sin”
Peter calls us to something more.
Peter calls us to, “Love the sinner, hate our own sin”
Because only by hating our sin, by going to war against the sin within our own lives, can we be the witnesses to Christ that we’re called to be to the world.
So...what WAR are you fighting? A culture war based on Christian Nationalism, or a war against the sins in your life?
What sins are you struggling with that you need to go to war with this week?
What judgmental attitudes and emotions do you have toward non-believers that you need to repent of?
Who is God calling you to extend MERCY to this week?
Live Such Good LivesAfter Peter established the right target for us to aim at, Peter continues in 1 Peter 2:12 which reads
“12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
The way we live matters.
It’s more than just removing the sin from our lives, its living in a way that points to Jesus.
Because our actions send messages to everyone to sees us.
And people see us.
People see you, how you live, what you do, how you respond to stressful situations.
Paul says it this way in Philippians 1:27 “27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel”
To be clear:
Truth is important
Doctrine is important
But, it is our responsibility to be a Royal Priesthood, so non-believers can experience what Jesus is like by seeing the way we live and spending time with us in our community
Our goal should not be to get people to agree with us
Our goal should to be invite people to “come and see”, to join us in worshipping Jesus
No matter what people believe when they enter into worship, it is the job of the Holy Spirit to transform their hearts and minds, not ours
As Christians we are called to live in such a way that our lives reflect the gospel itself
So, how do you live?
What are you more concerned about; getting people to agree with you, or living in such a way that your actions speak louder than your words ever could?
When people see you live your life, do they see the Gospel of Jesus being lived out?
Submit Yourselves to Human AuthorityAfter challenging us to live lives that point to Jesus, in 1 Peter 2:13–17, Peter goes a step further addressing how we should engage with the government and politics; he writes...
“13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.”
Peter writes that we need to SUBMIT ourselves to EVERY human authority.
That includes government and politicians that we don’t agree with
That includes bosses that you don’t agree with.
That includes any person who is in a position of authority over you
God has set every ruler in the positions that they are in for a reason - whether we think they are good or bad.
As Christians our obligations is to submit to their authority, and do everything we can to show them respect their position deserves.
In the Old Testament, God used Assyria and Babylon empires to teach Israel lessons about obedience, even thought that Assyria and Babylon were not Godly nations.
And when the Israelites were in exile, the Prophet Jeremiah instructed them to seek the cities “Peace and Prosperity”
Paul in Romans 13:1–2 echoes Peter’s words, writing
“1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
Yet, there are limits, when the demands of the government conflict with obedience to the God, as Christians we need to obey God
Acts 5:29 “29 Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!”
We need to always submit to authorities, sometimes subvert authorities, rarely disobey authorities
You can subvert and still submit -
The perfect example of this was the early church
At the time of the early church it was legal to leave you unwanted babies out in the sun, killing them by exposure.
Christians subverted this by saving babies that were abandoned, raising them as their own.
It is also possible to disobey while submitting - Martin Luthor King Jr gives us one of the best examples of this during the civil rights movement. He explained it this way.
“In no sense do I advocate evading or defying the law, as would the rabid segregationist. That would lead to anarchy. One who breaks an unjust law must do so openly, lovingly, and with a willingness to accept the penalty. I submit that an individual who breaks a law that conscience tells him is unjust, and who willingly accepts the penalty of imprisonment in order to arouse the conscience of the community over its injustice, is in reality expressing the highest respect for the law. Of course there is nothing new about this kind of civil disobedience. It was evidenced sublimely in the refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to obey the law of Nebuchadnezzar, on the ground that a higher moral law was at stake. It was practiced superbly by the early Christians, who were willing to face hungry lions and the excruciating pain of chopping blocks rather than submit to certain unjust laws of the Roman Empire.” - Dr Martin Luthor King
As Christians we need to submit to human authorities...
But, we need to be obedient to Jesus first
That means that if we need to disobey any human law, it needs to be done openly, lovingly, and with a willingness to accept the penalty
So, as you think about politics in the world today, whatever side of the aisle you find yourself in agreement with, are you SUBMITTING to the human authorities that God has currently placed in power?
If you find yourself disagreeing with the policies currently in place, are you SUBVERTING, finding legal ways to act that align with God’s will even though they are against currently allowed policies?
If you find yourself in a position where there is no legal way to obey God’s will for your life and follow the current laws - are you DISOBEYING openly, lovingly, and with a willingness to accept the penalty?
Slaves Submit Yourselves to Your MastersBut Peter takes it one step farther.
After telling us to “submit to every human authority”, Peter goes on to tell slaves to submit to their masters
It is here in the passage when Peter addresses slaves.
And before we go into the next few verses, I think we need to give some context.
When most of us think about slavery, we think of Chattel Slavery from America’s past.
We think of a people group that had zero rights, zero hope of freedom, and “owners” who could do anything to them without consequence.
That is not the slavery that existed in the first century in the Roman Empire
Most of the slaves in the Roman Empire were typically the conquered people from nations that Rome defeated in battle
There were upwards of 60 million slaves within the Roman Empire
But the slavery back then different from the slaver we think about in some significant ways
Slaves in the Roman Empire were considered people and had some rights. Under Constantine it was illegal to kill a slave or the owner would be prosecuted for murder
Most salves in the Roman Empire had high skilled jobs. Slaves could be doctors, teachers, accountants, or estate manages. Think of Joseph running Potiphar's house when he was a slave.
Slavery in the Roman Empire was usually not permanent. Most were able to earn their freedom by age 30
Slaves in the Roman Empire were allowed to earn money and build savings, through which they could
Own land
Start businesses
Even own other slaves
With that in mind let’s read 1 Peter 2:18–21
“18 Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. 19 For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. 20 But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. 21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”
Peter is not writing about how Roman society should be structured
He is writing to men and women who are followers of Jesus who need to know how to follow Jesus in unjust situations
Many of them were slaves
The Bible does not ENDORSE subjugation - it does EMPOWER submission, servanthood, and suffering well.
Peter is speaking, not only to slaves, but every one of who have or will face unjust situations.
As Christians, we are called to follow Jesus example.
And in the rest of the passage. Peter gives us exactly the example Jesus gave us to follow. 1 Peter 2:21–25 reads
“21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. 22 “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” 23 When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24 “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25 For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”
The word Peter used for example is Hupogrammon, which means a instructions to teach children, or a sketch for a painter to follow; a pattern for imitation
So, when faced with death, which Jesus did not deserve, Jesus voluntarily took up the role as a suffering servant.
And when faced with the unjust situations in our lives, we are called to follow the example Jesus gave us through His life.
Patiently bear the unjust situation
Know that God will use our obedience to serve Him, His Kingdom, and non-believers
And do so with a conscious awareness of God’s presence - helping us, strengthening us, and growing us through
The unjust suffering we are called to endure reveals our character to all those who bear witness.
It is through our willingness to suffer injustice without compromising the principles we, as Christians, live by that non-believers see the Gospel through our lives.
The reality is, we may not be slaves like some of the early Christians, but we all face unjust situations.
We are all, as Christians, called to suffer at times.
2 Timothy 3:12
“12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,”
Jesus did not receive the crown of glory without first wearing a crown of thorns.
We cannot expect our crown of righteousness when we die without patiently enduring the suffering that this life bring.
What do you do, and what are you like, when you are in an unjust situation and you don’t have the power to do anything about it?
Do you fight back, sticking up for yourself, fighting for your rights?
Do you endure, obediently following God, knowing that God will use you to serve others and grow your faith?
YOU - Takeaway - HEART WE / JESUS - Redemptive Close - Call to Action - HANDSJesus, after predicting how He would die, that He would suffer many things, be rejected by the Jewish leaders, be killed, and rise again on the 3rd day...said this to His disciples.
Mark 8:34–38 reads
“34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? 37 Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? 38 If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.””
Our natural instincts are to follow the example of Carrie Nation and the Spanish Conquistadors.
When we believe something, it is only natural to want do everything we can to get others to believe the truth that we have discovered.
We use our words, many times like the Conquistadors speaking a language that others don’t understand and putting up roadblocks that are too large for others to overcome.
Or we resort to tough love like Carrie Nation, forcing our beliefs on others and making enemies in the process.
Yet, we are called, not to follow the example of the Spanish Conquistadors convincing others to believe in Jesus with our words.
We are called, not to follow the example of Carrie Nation convincing others to believe in Jesus with violence.
We are called, to follow the example of Jesus
Living a sinless life
Choosing to deny ourselves, endure suffering for the benefit of others
Living a life that communicates the gospel through our actions, not our words
Our responsibility is to represent Jesus here on earth by the way we live our lives, and invite people into the kingdom
CLOSINGSo what do people see when they observe your life?
When you face unjust situations, do you endure the suffering, remaining obedient to God and letting others see how strongly you believe in God and the plans He has for you?
Do people see the Gospel through your life?
How is God calling you to engage with the non-believing people in your life?
your family
your co-work
your friends
your neighbors
This week let’s live out the challenge set by Peter in 1 Peter 2:12 to “12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
PRAYER Will you join me in prayer...
SONG As we enter into our final song, I want to open the steps up front as an altar to anyone who feels God calling them to respond to today’s message.
Maybe as you think about ...Peter’s call to wage an internal war against the sins that tempt you, you need to come up and repent to all the ways that you have chosen instead to wage the culture war trying to get everyone to believe as you do.
Maybe as you think about ...Peter’s call to live such a good life that other can see the gospel through your actions, you need to come up and ask God to use you and your life to spread His message of love and forgiveness to the world.
Maybe as you think about ...Peter’s call to submit you need to stop trying to avoid and fight against the unjust situations in your life, but pray that God uses them and your response to them to minister to those around you.
Or maybe, you heard this message and you haven’t yet put your faith in Jesus as your LORD and SAVIOR. Maybe you need to pray to God
Admitting that you are a sinner and need forgiveness
Verbalizing your Belief in Jesus as the Son of God, who died on the cross paying the penalty for your sins, and rose from the dead on the third day giving your hope of an eternal life with God in Heaven.
Confessing that Jesus is your LORD and SAVIOR
If today is the day that you put your faith in Jesus, please come see me afterword. I’d love to walk with you as you start your new life in Christ.
You may feel a hand on your shoulder as I or one of the elders join you in prayer.
BENEDICTION Titus 2:11–14
“11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”
This week...
Let’s stop using our words and actions to force our beliefs on culture
Let’s follow the example and teachings of Jesus
Focusing first on ourselves and removing all sin from our own lives
Focusing on our actions and the way we live our lives and the message we send by how we
Submit to human authorities
Put God’s will first in everything
Endure injustice knowing that God will use it to minister to others and grow our faith
Let’s be a church and people that don’t need words to preach the gospel, but live such good lives that people can see Jesus in and through everything we do
Quick reminder...
Chief’s Game at my house today at 3:30 - ask for my address if you need it
Digging Deeper Bible Study - Wednesday at 6:30 PM - Programming for all ages
If you’re new, please fill out the card in the seat back and stop by our info desk, or see me. We’d love to say “hi” and get you know you a bit better.
If you’d like to get more information about taking your next step of faith, fill out the card in the seat back and give it to me or turn it in to the info desk.
I hope you have a great week.
Go in peace.
You are dismissed.
DISCIPLESHIP QUESTIONS (download into APP)What specific sins are you currently struggling with that you feel called to confront in your life?
In what ways can you actively show mercy to those around you this week?
How do you perceive the relationship between your faith and how you engage with cultural issues?
What has God shown you about submitting to authority, even when you disagree with it?
How can living a 'good life' among non-believers impact your witness for the Gospel?
What does it mean for you to engage with friends who might not share your beliefs?
Have you found it challenging to stand up for your faith in school or with friends? How can you do this effectively?
In what areas of your life do you struggle with peer pressure, and how might that affect your faith?
How can you demonstrate the love of Jesus through your actions in everyday life?
Title (written around problem being solved): How are Christians called to engage culture?
Problem I’m Trying to Solve / Answer:
Focus Statement: As Christians we are not called to fight a culture war, we are called to fight a war against our own sinful desires.
Function Statement: Live in such a way that people see the gospel through our actions.
Tweetable Phrase: The way we live within the world should reflect the gospel itself
Main Text: 1 Peter 2:11-25
Supporting Text:
Redemptive Closure (point to Jesus): Mark 8:34-35
Benediction: Titus 2:11-14
WELCOMEGood morning!!! My name is Ryan Hanson, and I have the honor of serving here at The Light KC as the lead pastor. I’m so glad you’re here with us.
Welcome to those joining us online. We hope you're doing well and hope to see you in person in the coming weeks.
And a special welcome to those joining us for the first time. We’re so glad you chose to be here.
ME/INTRO - TensionHave you every tried to convince somebody of something that you believed, but they did not?
I recently came across some Kansas history that I thought was amazing about someone trying to do just that.
Apparently Kansas outlawed the sale of alcohol back in 1881, way before the 18th amendment outlawed it nationally in 1920.
Well, I learned there was a 53 year old lady by the name of Carrie Nation, who had a husband that died from alcohol related illnesses who in 1900 did not appreciate that people did not see the risk in alcohol and were operating illegal saloons. She decided to make it her mission to get people to change their minds and stop drinking.
She took a hatchet and went from saloon to saloon smashing liquor bottles, mirrors, and bars.
She called her actions Hatchetations
Here is a picture of Carrie Nation
[Image: Carrie Nation]
Carrie Nation choose to use violence to change people’s beliefs.
She didn’t convince anyone to stop drinking or believe that alcohol was bad, but she was arrested 30 times.
As I was researching this, I ran across another story from a bit further back of a group that tried another tactic to change the beliefs of others.
In 1513, when the Spanish conquistadors came to the Americas, they brought with them a piece of paper called The Requerimiento.
When they came across the indigenous people, they read this document to them. Keep in mind they read it in Spanish.
It said that if they put their allegiance with the Pope and Spanish Crown, and accepted Christian teachings they would be left alone.
But if they didn’t, they would go to war with them and make them slaves.
They even required that their response be submitted in writing with a notary present.
This is how the letter ended.
“And that we have said this to you and made this Requisition, we request the notary here present to give us his testimony in writing, and we ask the rest who are present that they should be witnesses of this Requisition.”
The Spanish tried to get the indigenous people to believe in Jesus and be loyal to the Spanish Crown, but didn’t speak their language and put barriers in place that were unreasonable.
WE - TensionHave you ever tried to get someone to change their beliefs to line up with yours?
Maybe you tried to get a spouse to clean the way that you like the house cleaned
Maybe you tried to get your kids to do their work before they play
Maybe you tried to get a neighbor to keep up their lawn at a certain level
How did that work out? I know when I’ve tried, it is a battle.
It is easy to see why Carrie Nation turned to violence
At times it feels like I’m not even speaking the same language like the Conquistadors
It typically isn’t the end of the world if people don’t agree with us on some small things, but...
Have you ever tried to share your faith with someone?
Have you tried to convince someone who doesn’t believe in Jesus that Jesus is not only the Son of God, but that the life that He teaches is the BEST LIFE that they were created to live?
Has their response made you question if you were speaking the same language as them?
Hopefully you haven’t resulted to violence in sharing your faith?
These are the questions that Peter addressed today.
The first chapter of 1 Peter was where Peter gave us a doctrinal foundation.
He told us WHO we are - that our identity is found in Christ
He told us WHAT God has done for us - giving us a New Birth, a Living Hope, a Heavenly Inheritance, and Salvation
He told us HOW to live the life we were created to live - by Riding ourselves of sin, Craving a relationship with Jesus, and being and active part of a Christian Community.
If you missed the previous messages, please feel free go to our website, TheLightKC.org, to catch up.
As we get to 1 Peter 2:11, Peter transitions away from doctrine and moves into practical application.
Peter shifts from how WE can live the BEST LIVES that God created us to live to...
...how SHOULD WE LIVE in and among a society that doesn’t believe as we do.
A Quick Caveat:
Some of Today’s Conversation may be challenging.
As a church, it is not our job to avoid hard topics.
Sometimes we need to talk about hard topics.
Today we are going to talk about some hard topics; nationalism, politics, slavery, etc.
We’re going to talk about these on purpose, because as the church, our goal is to search God’s will for every aspect of our lives and do our best to align our lives with the teachings of the Bible.
If we discuss something that is uncomfortable for you...I ask that you don’t check out, sit with it, engage with it, pray about, and if you’d like come see me this week and we can talk about it.
As we begin, please turn with me to [1 Peter 2:11: Sanctuary Bible Page # 981]
We’ll have the scripture on the screen, but if you have a Bible with you, or Bible app on your phone, I’d encourage you to turn to the passage and follow along. There is nothing that replaces having God’s word in your hand.
AND... if you don’t have a Bible, we have Bibles under the seats. If you don’t have a bible and would like one, please come see me after the service and I’ll get you one you can keep.
Let's dive in.
GOD - Text - HEAD Wage War Against Your Soul 1 Peter 2:11 reads
“11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.”
The first things Peter tells us we need to do to live within a world that doesn’t believe the same things we believe is to aim at the right target.
Our enemy is a WHAT, not a WHO
This is where Peter addressed Christian Nationalism.
We are not fighting a culture war; We are fighting a war against our own sinful desires
As Christians, we are not called to be culture’s police, holding people accountable to beliefs and values that they never agreed to.
As Christians we are called to be merciful (Luke 6:36)
And if we choose to become the Christians that yell from soap boxes everything the world is doing wrong, we are not being merciful
It is only when we
go to war against our own sins
realize how underserving we are of the mercy that God has shown to us
that we can generously show mercy to others
So how do we GO TO WAR against our sinful desires?
It takes aggressive sustained effort
Colossians 3:5 “5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.”
We need to remove all temptations from our lives
2 Timothy 2:22 “22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
We need to rely on God’s grace as the only thing that can truly free us from sin’s grasp
Titus 2:11–12 “11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,”
It is common to hear the phrase (and I’ve said it myself), “Love the sinner, hate the sin”
Peter calls us to something more.
Peter calls us to, “Love the sinner, hate our own sin”
Because only by hating our sin, by going to war against the sin within our own lives, can we be the witnesses to Christ that we’re called to be to the world.
So...what WAR are you fighting? A culture war based on Christian Nationalism, or a war against the sins in your life?
What sins are you struggling with that you need to go to war with this week?
What judgmental attitudes and emotions do you have toward non-believers that you need to repent of?
Who is God calling you to extend MERCY to this week?
Live Such Good LivesAfter Peter established the right target for us to aim at, Peter continues in 1 Peter 2:12 which reads
“12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
The way we live matters.
It’s more than just removing the sin from our lives, its living in a way that points to Jesus.
Because our actions send messages to everyone to sees us.
And people see us.
People see you, how you live, what you do, how you respond to stressful situations.
Paul says it this way in Philippians 1:27 “27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel”
To be clear:
Truth is important
Doctrine is important
But, it is our responsibility to be a Royal Priesthood, so non-believers can experience what Jesus is like by seeing the way we live and spending time with us in our community
Our goal should not be to get people to agree with us
Our goal should to be invite people to “come and see”, to join us in worshipping Jesus
No matter what people believe when they enter into worship, it is the job of the Holy Spirit to transform their hearts and minds, not ours
As Christians we are called to live in such a way that our lives reflect the gospel itself
So, how do you live?
What are you more concerned about; getting people to agree with you, or living in such a way that your actions speak louder than your words ever could?
When people see you live your life, do they see the Gospel of Jesus being lived out?
Submit Yourselves to Human AuthorityAfter challenging us to live lives that point to Jesus, in 1 Peter 2:13–17, Peter goes a step further addressing how we should engage with the government and politics; he writes...
“13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.”
Peter writes that we need to SUBMIT ourselves to EVERY human authority.
That includes government and politicians that we don’t agree with
That includes bosses that you don’t agree with.
That includes any person who is in a position of authority over you
God has set every ruler in the positions that they are in for a reason - whether we think they are good or bad.
As Christians our obligations is to submit to their authority, and do everything we can to show them respect their position deserves.
In the Old Testament, God used Assyria and Babylon empires to teach Israel lessons about obedience, even thought that Assyria and Babylon were not Godly nations.
And when the Israelites were in exile, the Prophet Jeremiah instructed them to seek the cities “Peace and Prosperity”
Paul in Romans 13:1–2 echoes Peter’s words, writing
“1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
Yet, there are limits, when the demands of the government conflict with obedience to the God, as Christians we need to obey God
Acts 5:29 “29 Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!”
We need to always submit to authorities, sometimes subvert authorities, rarely disobey authorities
You can subvert and still submit -
The perfect example of this was the early church
At the time of the early church it was legal to leave you unwanted babies out in the sun, killing them by exposure.
Christians subverted this by saving babies that were abandoned, raising them as their own.
It is also possible to disobey while submitting - Martin Luthor King Jr gives us one of the best examples of this during the civil rights movement. He explained it this way.
“In no sense do I advocate evading or defying the law, as would the rabid segregationist. That would lead to anarchy. One who breaks an unjust law must do so openly, lovingly, and with a willingness to accept the penalty. I submit that an individual who breaks a law that conscience tells him is unjust, and who willingly accepts the penalty of imprisonment in order to arouse the conscience of the community over its injustice, is in reality expressing the highest respect for the law. Of course there is nothing new about this kind of civil disobedience. It was evidenced sublimely in the refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to obey the law of Nebuchadnezzar, on the ground that a higher moral law was at stake. It was practiced superbly by the early Christians, who were willing to face hungry lions and the excruciating pain of chopping blocks rather than submit to certain unjust laws of the Roman Empire.” - Dr Martin Luthor King
As Christians we need to submit to human authorities...
But, we need to be obedient to Jesus first
That means that if we need to disobey any human law, it needs to be done openly, lovingly, and with a willingness to accept the penalty
So, as you think about politics in the world today, whatever side of the aisle you find yourself in agreement with, are you SUBMITTING to the human authorities that God has currently placed in power?
If you find yourself disagreeing with the policies currently in place, are you SUBVERTING, finding legal ways to act that align with God’s will even though they are against currently allowed policies?
If you find yourself in a position where there is no legal way to obey God’s will for your life and follow the current laws - are you DISOBEYING openly, lovingly, and with a willingness to accept the penalty?
Slaves Submit Yourselves to Your MastersBut Peter takes it one step farther.
After telling us to “submit to every human authority”, Peter goes on to tell slaves to submit to their masters
It is here in the passage when Peter addresses slaves.
And before we go into the next few verses, I think we need to give some context.
When most of us think about slavery, we think of Chattel Slavery from America’s past.
We think of a people group that had zero rights, zero hope of freedom, and “owners” who could do anything to them without consequence.
That is not the slavery that existed in the first century in the Roman Empire
Most of the slaves in the Roman Empire were typically the conquered people from nations that Rome defeated in battle
There were upwards of 60 million slaves within the Roman Empire
But the slavery back then different from the slaver we think about in some significant ways
Slaves in the Roman Empire were considered people and had some rights. Under Constantine it was illegal to kill a slave or the owner would be prosecuted for murder
Most salves in the Roman Empire had high skilled jobs. Slaves could be doctors, teachers, accountants, or estate manages. Think of Joseph running Potiphar's house when he was a slave.
Slavery in the Roman Empire was usually not permanent. Most were able to earn their freedom by age 30
Slaves in the Roman Empire were allowed to earn money and build savings, through which they could
Own land
Start businesses
Even own other slaves
With that in mind let’s read 1 Peter 2:18–21
“18 Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. 19 For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. 20 But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. 21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”
Peter is not writing about how Roman society should be structured
He is writing to men and women who are followers of Jesus who need to know how to follow Jesus in unjust situations
Many of them were slaves
The Bible does not ENDORSE subjugation - it does EMPOWER submission, servanthood, and suffering well.
Peter is speaking, not only to slaves, but every one of who have or will face unjust situations.
As Christians, we are called to follow Jesus example.
And in the rest of the passage. Peter gives us exactly the example Jesus gave us to follow. 1 Peter 2:21–25 reads
“21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. 22 “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” 23 When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24 “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 25 For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”
The word Peter used for example is Hupogrammon, which means a instructions to teach children, or a sketch for a painter to follow; a pattern for imitation
So, when faced with death, which Jesus did not deserve, Jesus voluntarily took up the role as a suffering servant.
And when faced with the unjust situations in our lives, we are called to follow the example Jesus gave us through His life.
Patiently bear the unjust situation
Know that God will use our obedience to serve Him, His Kingdom, and non-believers
And do so with a conscious awareness of God’s presence - helping us, strengthening us, and growing us through
The unjust suffering we are called to endure reveals our character to all those who bear witness.
It is through our willingness to suffer injustice without compromising the principles we, as Christians, live by that non-believers see the Gospel through our lives.
The reality is, we may not be slaves like some of the early Christians, but we all face unjust situations.
We are all, as Christians, called to suffer at times.
2 Timothy 3:12
“12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,”
Jesus did not receive the crown of glory without first wearing a crown of thorns.
We cannot expect our crown of righteousness when we die without patiently enduring the suffering that this life bring.
What do you do, and what are you like, when you are in an unjust situation and you don’t have the power to do anything about it?
Do you fight back, sticking up for yourself, fighting for your rights?
Do you endure, obediently following God, knowing that God will use you to serve others and grow your faith?
YOU - Takeaway - HEART WE / JESUS - Redemptive Close - Call to Action - HANDSJesus, after predicting how He would die, that He would suffer many things, be rejected by the Jewish leaders, be killed, and rise again on the 3rd day...said this to His disciples.
Mark 8:34–38 reads
“34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? 37 Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? 38 If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.””
Our natural instincts are to follow the example of Carrie Nation and the Spanish Conquistadors.
When we believe something, it is only natural to want do everything we can to get others to believe the truth that we have discovered.
We use our words, many times like the Conquistadors speaking a language that others don’t understand and putting up roadblocks that are too large for others to overcome.
Or we resort to tough love like Carrie Nation, forcing our beliefs on others and making enemies in the process.
Yet, we are called, not to follow the example of the Spanish Conquistadors convincing others to believe in Jesus with our words.
We are called, not to follow the example of Carrie Nation convincing others to believe in Jesus with violence.
We are called, to follow the example of Jesus
Living a sinless life
Choosing to deny ourselves, endure suffering for the benefit of others
Living a life that communicates the gospel through our actions, not our words
Our responsibility is to represent Jesus here on earth by the way we live our lives, and invite people into the kingdom
CLOSINGSo what do people see when they observe your life?
When you face unjust situations, do you endure the suffering, remaining obedient to God and letting others see how strongly you believe in God and the plans He has for you?
Do people see the Gospel through your life?
How is God calling you to engage with the non-believing people in your life?
your family
your co-work
your friends
your neighbors
This week let’s live out the challenge set by Peter in 1 Peter 2:12 to “12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
PRAYER Will you join me in prayer...
SONG As we enter into our final song, I want to open the steps up front as an altar to anyone who feels God calling them to respond to today’s message.
Maybe as you think about ...Peter’s call to wage an internal war against the sins that tempt you, you need to come up and repent to all the ways that you have chosen instead to wage the culture war trying to get everyone to believe as you do.
Maybe as you think about ...Peter’s call to live such a good life that other can see the gospel through your actions, you need to come up and ask God to use you and your life to spread His message of love and forgiveness to the world.
Maybe as you think about ...Peter’s call to submit you need to stop trying to avoid and fight against the unjust situations in your life, but pray that God uses them and your response to them to minister to those around you.
Or maybe, you heard this message and you haven’t yet put your faith in Jesus as your LORD and SAVIOR. Maybe you need to pray to God
Admitting that you are a sinner and need forgiveness
Verbalizing your Belief in Jesus as the Son of God, who died on the cross paying the penalty for your sins, and rose from the dead on the third day giving your hope of an eternal life with God in Heaven.
Confessing that Jesus is your LORD and SAVIOR
If today is the day that you put your faith in Jesus, please come see me afterword. I’d love to walk with you as you start your new life in Christ.
You may feel a hand on your shoulder as I or one of the elders join you in prayer.
BENEDICTION Titus 2:11–14
“11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”
This week...
Let’s stop using our words and actions to force our beliefs on culture
Let’s follow the example and teachings of Jesus
Focusing first on ourselves and removing all sin from our own lives
Focusing on our actions and the way we live our lives and the message we send by how we
Submit to human authorities
Put God’s will first in everything
Endure injustice knowing that God will use it to minister to others and grow our faith
Let’s be a church and people that don’t need words to preach the gospel, but live such good lives that people can see Jesus in and through everything we do
Quick reminder...
Chief’s Game at my house today at 3:30 - ask for my address if you need it
Digging Deeper Bible Study - Wednesday at 6:30 PM - Programming for all ages
If you’re new, please fill out the card in the seat back and stop by our info desk, or see me. We’d love to say “hi” and get you know you a bit better.
If you’d like to get more information about taking your next step of faith, fill out the card in the seat back and give it to me or turn it in to the info desk.
I hope you have a great week.
Go in peace.
You are dismissed.
DISCIPLESHIP QUESTIONS (download into APP)What specific sins are you currently struggling with that you feel called to confront in your life?
In what ways can you actively show mercy to those around you this week?
How do you perceive the relationship between your faith and how you engage with cultural issues?
What has God shown you about submitting to authority, even when you disagree with it?
How can living a 'good life' among non-believers impact your witness for the Gospel?
What does it mean for you to engage with friends who might not share your beliefs?
Have you found it challenging to stand up for your faith in school or with friends? How can you do this effectively?
In what areas of your life do you struggle with peer pressure, and how might that affect your faith?
How can you demonstrate the love of Jesus through your actions in everyday life?
What role do you think your involvement in your community plays in representing Christ?