In His Steps by His Stripes

Continuing the letter from Peter to scattered Christians, reminding us of the living hope we have as living stones built into Christ, having a distinct identity as children of God through faith, the last thing we heard was that we are to be people of excellent behavior.  Unbelievers (Gentiles) will, on account of our good behavior in Christ, one day acknowledge His glory.  Today’s section gives us concrete examples of what that God-glorifying behavior looks like in three areas: in subjection to governing authorities, in subjection to masters in the work arena, and (next week) in family relationships.  The heart of the passage is the example of how Jesus faced undeserved adversity and suffering, instructive for how we can behave with excellence.