Bible Reading: Job 40; 1 Pet. 2:9-16
“Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;” – 1 Peter 2:13 (KJV)
Obedience is the hallmark of a good Christian. Such obedience covers both the commandments of God and the laws of the land. 1 Peter 2:13 (KJV) says: “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;” Such obedience to the law of the land is not limited to whether others or even those in authority are obedient to the law, it is premised on obedience to God. So as Christians, you are expected to obey all lawful regulations, authority and directives of the land.
This covers ensuring you perform your civic duties as citizens such as paying your taxes and other charges, exercising your rights to vote when the need arises, maintaining a good environment where you live, and generally obeying the laws of the land.
One of the profound reasons why God asks us to obey the laws of the land is in 1 Peter 2:15 (KJV): “For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men.” So what God expects us to do is to use our behaviour to preach the gospel as people are often quick to point out the errors of believers as opposed to those of non-believers. When people see our obedience and general well doing, that will put to silence any criticism that they may have against us.
This applies in church, at home, in offices, at social events and every other place. You should be distinguished by your act such that people can identify you anywhere by your behaviour and this will definitely draw more men to the kingdom of God. This was what happened in Antioch when believers were seen as behaving like Christ, and as such, were called Christians. This is what is expected of us now.
However, this is not happening now because rather than laying good examples for unbelievers, christians are quick to copy the bad behaviour of unbelievers, thus, blurring the difference between Christians and non- Christians.
Action Point: Please examine yourself to ascertain any area where you need to work on your obedience and make necessary amendment.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero