What does it mean to live as exiles in a world that isn't our eternal home? How should Christians relate to the governments God has placed over them?In this thought-provoking exploration of 1 Peter 2:13-17, we unpack the delicate balance between submission to earthly authorities and ultimate allegiance to God. As elect exiles—people chosen by God yet awaiting the fulfillment of His promises—we navigate a unique tension in our relationship with government.The Biblical teaching is clear yet nuanced: God establishes all governing authorities for specific purposes. Sometimes these purposes include disciplining His children, blessing His people, or judging the wicked. Our primary posture toward these authorities should be one of submission, honor, and prayer—not for their sake alone, but "for the Lord's sake" as a powerful witness to those around us.But what happens when government demands what God forbids? Drawing from Peter's own example in Acts 4, we discover that Christians are called to "obey God rather than men" when these authorities cross certain boundaries. This call to occasional subversion requires wisdom, counsel, and careful consideration.Through historical examples from Daniel to modern-day pastor responses during the pandemic, we see how believers throughout time have wrestled with these questions. The early church's witness was powerful precisely because their submission to authority pointed to their submission to a higher King.As we live between Christ's first and second coming, may our testimony be one of love for others, honor for our leaders, and above all, fear of God. In this way, our lives as exiles might shine as beacons of hope in a sometimes hostile world.

Ver todos los episodios