LIVING GODLY LIVES IN A PAGAN SOCIETY – PART 3

1 Peter 2.18-25 sums up the general commentary on living godly lives in a pagan society with a very specific (and troubling) instruction to the people at the very bottom of the political and socio-economic heap – SLAVES.

^“ 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. For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God.  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. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

  “He committed no sin,
   and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

  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. “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.”  For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

1. What command does Peter give to slaves?  Are there any exceptions or escape  clauses in this instruction?

2. What is the motivation for a slave to choose obedience in this extreme and unjust situation?

3. What is the purpose of this obedience?

4. Who is the model for this obedience?

5. Some persons throughout history have used this text as a pre-text for the justification of slavery.  This is really scripture-twisting to do so.  Why?

A thought: We are often concerned first and primarily with rights-particularly our own.  Peter is concerned with reflection–reflection of the character of Christ to carry out the mission of Christ.

Note from Steve:  I have fallen a bit behind – but look for posts Wednesday and Friday to help get back up to speed.