integrity
Integrity & Rest, 15 September 2024
15 09 24 Filed in: Sermons | Words of Life: Jesus on the Ten Commandments
Integrity & Rest—Commandments 3-4
Words of Life: Jesus on God’s Top 10
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
September 8, 2024
Exodus 20:7-11
Series Big Idea: Jesus had much to say about God’s Top Ten list.
Big Idea: Our words—and actions—re-present God…and we need rest.
Last Sunday we began to look at Jesus’ response to God’s Top Ten list, the Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mt. Sinai and recorded for us in Exodus chapter 20 as well as in Deuteronomy 5. The first two dealt with faith and trust—no other gods and no idols. These are surprisingly challenging to follow with so many people and things vying for our attention, affection, and affluence.
Today we’re tackling two subjects—integrity and rest—which seem to be increasingly rare and, therefore, counter-cultural in our society today.
What’s your name? Do you know its origins? My name, Kirk, means “church dweller” which is rather prophetic, don’t you think?!
Your name might be the single word that gets your attention more than any other. Although many children today are named after celebrities, movie characters, or even brands, in biblical times one’s name was usually very significant. There are even examples of God changing someone’s name to better reflect their character or destiny, such as Abram to Abraham. The third commandment—not suggestion—says,
“You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. (Exodus 20:7, NIV)
Some of you may recall it in the King James Version:
Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. (Exodus 20:7, KJV)
Some have interpreted this to mean don’t swear or don’t use God’s name with a swear word. I keep waiting for someone to stub their toe and say, “Oh Buddha!” or “Oh Taylor Swift!"
If we are flippant about the name of the LORD, we violate this command. The abbreviation OMG seems to stem from such a remark, unless one is truly praying. Anytime we diminish the respect or personhood of God, we break this commandment. It could even convey we doubt who He says He is since the names of God reflect His character.
We are not to speak God’s name when taking an oath. Jesus said,
“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. (Matthew 5:33-37)
If only politicians could answer questions with a simple yes or no!!!
The third commandment can be translated “you shall not pronounce the name of the Lord.” As a result, Jews generally refuse to speak the original Hebrew name, Yahweh. It literally means, “I am who I am” or “He who causes to be,” reflecting God’s self-existent and eternal nature. Jews usually substitute the holy name Yahweh for Adonai (Lord) or HaShem (the Name).
We need to take God seriously, including the use of His name. You wouldn’t like your name slandered, the subject of gossip, misquoted, or associated with lies. If you call yourself a Christian, you need to re-present Jesus well. We’re not perfect, but when we sin, we need to own it and seek forgiveness. It’s an issue of integrity.
Our words matter, but the third commandment involves much more than speech. Followers of God take His name with them wherever they go. It’s like the speedster going 90 on I-75 with a Jesus bumper sticker on their car. It’s not a good reflection of God. Everywhere Christians go, they re-present Jesus to the world, for good or bad. The literal translation of this verse says we are not to carry the name of the LORD in vain. Jesus said,
He replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written:
“ ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. (Mark 7:6, quoting Isaiah 29:13)
The high priest back in the day would carry on his breastplate the names of the sons of Israel and on his forehead the holy name of God. He was identified with God, and his actions were connected to God. The third commandment is about verbal blasphemy, but perhaps even more about the hypocrisy of our actions. To misquote Bon Jovi, some of us “give God a bad name,” and that’s not ok.
Now for what is probably the most radical of the ten commandments in our culture…
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. (Exodus 20:8)
Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. (Exodus 20:9-10)
Why?
For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. (Exodus 20:11-12)
This is a command to rest.
The Hebrews had been slaves in Egypt, possibly working every day. Some of you know the feeling! It seems like the most common response when I ask people how they are doing is…busy! Everyone is so busy! I must admit things in Findlay are a little slower than in Toledo (I’m still not used to going 25 miles per hour on my commute which used to include a stretch of 50 mph!). But we are so busy…work, soccer, show choir, band practice, class, tutoring, volunteering, …throw in a few hours of social media and binge-watching tv and who has time to rest?
Since COVID, I’ve seen some small improvements. Meijer used to be open 24/7. Black Friday used to bleed into Thanksgiving, giving employees no rest.
In a moment, I want to hear from you and answer questions you may have. I’m not an expert in this, but I have learned a thing or two over the years. Here’s the radical challenge. Are you ready?
Take 24 hours each week for nothing but joy and delight.
Sabbath or shabbat is a day without work of any kind. It’s a day to rest and be present with God. It is a holy day. Some of you may remember when most businesses were closed on Sunday…like Chick-fil-A still does. From a business perspective, I think they’re doing ok!
Sabbath is trusting God can do more with six days than you can with seven.
There are mountains of research showing the value of rest…stress reduction, improved sleep, mental clarity, emotional well-being, and increased productivity (sharpen the saw). Even the earth needs rest, which is why many farmers practice fallowing, leaving a field unplanted for a season.
The sabbath—originally Friday at sundown until Saturday at sundown, now commonly Sunday because of the day of Jesus’ resurrection—is to be a holy day, a day set apart, a different day. Because my vocation involves work on Sunday, Saturday is my sabbath. With very few exceptions, I do not work on Saturday.
Am I tempted? Sometimes.
Do people understand? Most of the time.
Did I make an exception to speak at the men’s retreat last night? Yes.
Could my sermon use some polishing? You be the judge!
The purpose of the sabbath is not to be legalistic. The Pharisees were critical of Jesus, not for breaking the sabbath, but rather their interpretation of the sabbath. Jesus said,
Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. (Mark 2:27)
In other words, sabbath is not to be a burden, something on your checklist, or a religious activity to inspire pride. It’s a gift. It’s God saying, “Be still and know that I am God.” The joy of the LORD is to be our strength, and devoting 24 hours (not just one!) to delighting in our Creator and His creation is something we need. I can only imagine how quickly burnout, anxiety, and heart attacks would decline in our culture if we would simply begin our week with a day of rest.
Did you catch that? We often work in order to rest, but God rested on the seventh day, meaning Adam and Eve’s first full day of life was the sabbath. They worked after resting rather than the other way around.
Can I garden? If it brings you joy and delight.
Does it have to be Sunday? It’s not for me!
Sabbath is practiced around the world. When we were in Germany, we were told to do all shopping on Saturday since most every business is closed on Sunday. The entire nation has a day of rest (like maybe we used to in this country).
Israel shuts down during shabbat. It wouldn’t surprise me if only the ER was open.
One more thing…the penalty for breaking the sabbath in the Old Testament? Death by stoning (Exodus 31:14-15, Number 15:32-36)!!!
So What?
Our words—and actions—re-present God…and we need rest.
Words of Life: Jesus on God’s Top 10
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
September 8, 2024
Exodus 20:7-11
Series Big Idea: Jesus had much to say about God’s Top Ten list.
Big Idea: Our words—and actions—re-present God…and we need rest.
Last Sunday we began to look at Jesus’ response to God’s Top Ten list, the Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mt. Sinai and recorded for us in Exodus chapter 20 as well as in Deuteronomy 5. The first two dealt with faith and trust—no other gods and no idols. These are surprisingly challenging to follow with so many people and things vying for our attention, affection, and affluence.
Today we’re tackling two subjects—integrity and rest—which seem to be increasingly rare and, therefore, counter-cultural in our society today.
What’s your name? Do you know its origins? My name, Kirk, means “church dweller” which is rather prophetic, don’t you think?!
Your name might be the single word that gets your attention more than any other. Although many children today are named after celebrities, movie characters, or even brands, in biblical times one’s name was usually very significant. There are even examples of God changing someone’s name to better reflect their character or destiny, such as Abram to Abraham. The third commandment—not suggestion—says,
“You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. (Exodus 20:7, NIV)
Some of you may recall it in the King James Version:
Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. (Exodus 20:7, KJV)
Some have interpreted this to mean don’t swear or don’t use God’s name with a swear word. I keep waiting for someone to stub their toe and say, “Oh Buddha!” or “Oh Taylor Swift!"
If we are flippant about the name of the LORD, we violate this command. The abbreviation OMG seems to stem from such a remark, unless one is truly praying. Anytime we diminish the respect or personhood of God, we break this commandment. It could even convey we doubt who He says He is since the names of God reflect His character.
We are not to speak God’s name when taking an oath. Jesus said,
“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. (Matthew 5:33-37)
If only politicians could answer questions with a simple yes or no!!!
The third commandment can be translated “you shall not pronounce the name of the Lord.” As a result, Jews generally refuse to speak the original Hebrew name, Yahweh. It literally means, “I am who I am” or “He who causes to be,” reflecting God’s self-existent and eternal nature. Jews usually substitute the holy name Yahweh for Adonai (Lord) or HaShem (the Name).
We need to take God seriously, including the use of His name. You wouldn’t like your name slandered, the subject of gossip, misquoted, or associated with lies. If you call yourself a Christian, you need to re-present Jesus well. We’re not perfect, but when we sin, we need to own it and seek forgiveness. It’s an issue of integrity.
Our words matter, but the third commandment involves much more than speech. Followers of God take His name with them wherever they go. It’s like the speedster going 90 on I-75 with a Jesus bumper sticker on their car. It’s not a good reflection of God. Everywhere Christians go, they re-present Jesus to the world, for good or bad. The literal translation of this verse says we are not to carry the name of the LORD in vain. Jesus said,
He replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written:
“ ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. (Mark 7:6, quoting Isaiah 29:13)
The high priest back in the day would carry on his breastplate the names of the sons of Israel and on his forehead the holy name of God. He was identified with God, and his actions were connected to God. The third commandment is about verbal blasphemy, but perhaps even more about the hypocrisy of our actions. To misquote Bon Jovi, some of us “give God a bad name,” and that’s not ok.
Now for what is probably the most radical of the ten commandments in our culture…
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. (Exodus 20:8)
Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. (Exodus 20:9-10)
Why?
For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. (Exodus 20:11-12)
This is a command to rest.
The Hebrews had been slaves in Egypt, possibly working every day. Some of you know the feeling! It seems like the most common response when I ask people how they are doing is…busy! Everyone is so busy! I must admit things in Findlay are a little slower than in Toledo (I’m still not used to going 25 miles per hour on my commute which used to include a stretch of 50 mph!). But we are so busy…work, soccer, show choir, band practice, class, tutoring, volunteering, …throw in a few hours of social media and binge-watching tv and who has time to rest?
Since COVID, I’ve seen some small improvements. Meijer used to be open 24/7. Black Friday used to bleed into Thanksgiving, giving employees no rest.
In a moment, I want to hear from you and answer questions you may have. I’m not an expert in this, but I have learned a thing or two over the years. Here’s the radical challenge. Are you ready?
Take 24 hours each week for nothing but joy and delight.
Sabbath or shabbat is a day without work of any kind. It’s a day to rest and be present with God. It is a holy day. Some of you may remember when most businesses were closed on Sunday…like Chick-fil-A still does. From a business perspective, I think they’re doing ok!
Sabbath is trusting God can do more with six days than you can with seven.
There are mountains of research showing the value of rest…stress reduction, improved sleep, mental clarity, emotional well-being, and increased productivity (sharpen the saw). Even the earth needs rest, which is why many farmers practice fallowing, leaving a field unplanted for a season.
The sabbath—originally Friday at sundown until Saturday at sundown, now commonly Sunday because of the day of Jesus’ resurrection—is to be a holy day, a day set apart, a different day. Because my vocation involves work on Sunday, Saturday is my sabbath. With very few exceptions, I do not work on Saturday.
Am I tempted? Sometimes.
Do people understand? Most of the time.
Did I make an exception to speak at the men’s retreat last night? Yes.
Could my sermon use some polishing? You be the judge!
The purpose of the sabbath is not to be legalistic. The Pharisees were critical of Jesus, not for breaking the sabbath, but rather their interpretation of the sabbath. Jesus said,
Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. (Mark 2:27)
In other words, sabbath is not to be a burden, something on your checklist, or a religious activity to inspire pride. It’s a gift. It’s God saying, “Be still and know that I am God.” The joy of the LORD is to be our strength, and devoting 24 hours (not just one!) to delighting in our Creator and His creation is something we need. I can only imagine how quickly burnout, anxiety, and heart attacks would decline in our culture if we would simply begin our week with a day of rest.
Did you catch that? We often work in order to rest, but God rested on the seventh day, meaning Adam and Eve’s first full day of life was the sabbath. They worked after resting rather than the other way around.
Can I garden? If it brings you joy and delight.
Does it have to be Sunday? It’s not for me!
Sabbath is practiced around the world. When we were in Germany, we were told to do all shopping on Saturday since most every business is closed on Sunday. The entire nation has a day of rest (like maybe we used to in this country).
Israel shuts down during shabbat. It wouldn’t surprise me if only the ER was open.
One more thing…the penalty for breaking the sabbath in the Old Testament? Death by stoning (Exodus 31:14-15, Number 15:32-36)!!!
So What?
Our words—and actions—re-present God…and we need rest.
Suffer Like Jesus, 27 September 2015
Suffer Like Jesus
Series: What In The World Is Going On? A Study of 1 Peter
1 Peter 2:11-25
Series Overview: God’s grace is present in the midst of suffering.
Big Idea: Suffer like Jesus…God is watching.
Introduction
This morning we continue our series on 1 Peter, “What In The World Is Going On?” This short letter to the early, suffering church is a powerful message not only to an ancient people but is increasing relevant to modern Christians as we face persecution. We may never face the horrors of ISIS victims, but nevertheless we can—and perhaps should—feel in the minority as followers of Jesus in a world consumed with money, sex and power. The theme of this book may well be called hope and grace in the midst of suffering. In the first three weeks we looked at hope, holiness, and harmony.
As we continue our series on 1 Peter, our text for today reminds us about time. Time is a fascinating dimension to life. We often struggle to be fully present in the moment, instead reminiscing about the past or dreaming about the future.
Patience is related to the future. We want things now. Last Sunday we sang about waiting on the LORD, something I struggle to do, knowing that God’s timing is never late but rarely early. If only He would answer my prayers instantly like a genie in a lamp, yet Daddy knows best and can be trusted, even His timing. Perhaps in hindsight you’re glad God waited to answer a prayer.
One of the most common expressions among children is, “It’s not fair!” Did I say children?! Adults say it all the time, too! The great theological Bill Gates said, “Life is not fair. Get used to it.” We live in a broken, sinful world where injustices are all around us. Often the best we can hope for is some sort of restitution or reconciliation through a judge or jury.
But what if you knew justice would prevail? What if you could be certain all wrongs would be righted, all perpetrators would be punished, and all suffering would be rewarded?
It all brings fairness and time into question. Our scripture today is full of encouragement from Peter to those suffering, reminding them their present suffering is not the end. There is more to their story. Judgment Day is coming, a day of reckoning, a day in which many will rejoice while others suffer the consequences of their unrighteousness.
Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. (2:11)
Last week we read Peter’s instruction to get rid of sin. Throughout every day we make decisions to follow the world or Jesus. These exiles—like us—are in the midst of a war between good and evil, between God and satan. We are in the midst of a spiritual battle. D.L. Moody once said, “I have more trouble with D.L. Moody than with any man I know.” Never confuse people as being the enemy. The real enemy is satan.
We were sinners but we’ve become adopted children of God. We are strangers/sojourners/pilgrims, resident aliens with citizenship in heaven. That’s immensely important. Foreigners and exiles approach life differently than citizens. Peter’s friends were literally exiles; we are not.
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. (2:12)
Have you ever been punished for doing the right thing? Have you ever been despised by cheaters for being honest? Have you ever been mocked for studying by those who failed the test? Often our greatest critics are merely envious.
I’ve seen this frequently with pastors. Thanks to the internet, everyone can have their own platform for sharing their opinion with the world. I’m truly sick and tired of hearing people trash pastors of large churches that are often doing more for the kingdom of God than their sorry whining will ever do. Sure, there are heretics that preach harmful things, but I’ve heard people attack some of the most respected people and I have to wonder if they’re just envious.
Good deeds are a witness to the world. We need words and deeds in shining the light of Jesus into our dark world.
Peter continues…
Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. (2:13-15)
This is a fascinating passage. It’s easy to think of our government but remember the context. Nero was coming to the throne in Rome as the new emperor. Life was hard for followers of Jesus. Peter’s not saying dishonor God, but he seems to be saying obey the law, submit to authority.
Daniel and his friends disobeyed the law but did so in a way that honored the king and respected authority (Daniel 1). They held their convictions and glorified God in the process. In Acts 4-5, Peter and his colleagues refused to stop preaching as commanded, yet they showed respect to their leaders in the process.
Note the last sentence. Again we see actions speak louder than words, in this case our good actions silencing—literally muzzle—fools.
Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. (2:16-17)
We have freedom. We have liberty—far more than Peter’s audience—but we must not abuse our freedoms. We are free but we’re God’s servants. God’s slaves. When we call God LORD we are declaring ourselves to be under His authority. We are to use our freedom to help, serve, and bless others as Nehemiah did restoring the Jerusalem walls.
He says to show “proper respect to everyone.” I wish more Christians would follow this simple instruction, especially during these political campaigns. How we submit to authority is a part of our witness to the world. Going 85 miles an hour on the expressway with a “Jesus Loves You” bumper sticker sends the wrong message.
He reiterates the command to love the family of believers. Note the context of authority. One way we love one another is by submitting to the authority of godly leaders in the church.
He says fear—or have awe for—God. Give honor to the emperor, the king, the president. The office is to be honored even if you disagree with their politics. No matter your dislike for a politician, they are created with dignity, value and worth in the image of God. Pray for them. The verbs literally mean to keep loving, keep fearing, keep honoring…constantly. This is no mere suggestion. The book of Romans says…
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. (Romans 13:1)
This all echoes Solomon’s wisdom:
Fear the Lord and the king, my son…(Proverbs 24:21)
I admit this can be tricky. Not every nation has a church and state separation. Facebook is abuzz with Christians supporting and opposing Kim Davis for her decisions as a county clerk in Kentucky. What do you do when the law and the Word of God are in conflict?
Perhaps one word to consider is power. Jesus did not come to overthrow the government of His day, though many hoped He would. As He entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday the people shouted, “Hosanna!” which means “Save us now!” He will exercise His power when He returns, but He modeled for us a servant’s posture. Whenever I see pride or self-serving power exerted I get nervous in a hurry!
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. (2:18-21)
First century slavery was different than the horror of slavery in the USA up to our Civil War. It was generally a temporary condition that included possibly one-third of the population. Many chose to be slaves for a season in order to become full Roman citizens. Peter’s words regarding obedience as slaves may have been partially so they could be set free. Powerful masters had powerful slaves, so for some, it was a valuable position. Some slaves were doctors, teachers, and even sea-captains.
It wasn’t necessary an easy life, however. Some slaves were both physically abused and made sexually available to their masters. Scott Bartchy writes,
“Central features that distinguish 1st century slavery from that later practiced in the New World are the following: racial factors played no role; education was greatly encouraged (some slaves were better educated than their owners) and enhanced a slave’s value; many slaves carried out sensitive and highly responsible social functions; slaves could own property (including other slaves!); their religious and cultural traditions were the same as those of the freeborn; no laws prohibited public assembly of slaves; and (perhaps above all) the majority of urban and domestic slaves could legitimately anticipate being emancipated by the age of 30.”
Submit. Not a popular word in our culture, or perhaps any. None of us truly understand the life of a slave. Some liken their boss to a slave master. No matter your job, our nation affords us all certain freedoms unimaginable to those in other places and/or other times in history. We can’t fully appreciate the weight of Peter’s words except to say do the right thing, even if you’re not rewarded for it…now. Someday you will receive your reward.
Work as unto the LORD. Paul wrote to the church in Colossae…
Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism. (Colossians 3:22-25)
Submit to the authority of your boss. When wronged, it’s human nature to want to fight, but we are to submit and let God fight. This doesn’t mean be a doormat or tolerate abuse, but it does mean remember God is watching.
Jesus understands. Jesus suffered. Not only did He suffer for doing good, He did it to both set an example for us and to sacrifice for us. He died for you and for me. He served through suffering.
“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” (2:22)
He lived a perfect life, yet He was executed, wrongfully accused. He suffered the ultimate suffering for doing good. He lived the cruciform life, shaped by the cross.
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. (2:23-25)
Peter quotes Isaiah 53. It’s such a paradox that we have been healed by His wounds, His suffering.
Jesus’ life set an example for us.
Jesus’ death was a sacrifice for us.
Jesus is now our Shepherd and will return soon.
So What?
This passage is loaded with application possibilities. I say possibilities because the relationship between us and government can be tricky. Civil disobedience may be justified, but we must respect our leaders. Enduring a difficult job and serving wholeheartedly may be God’s desire and a great witness to others. Demonstrating kindness, generosity, humility, honesty, and loyalty when we don’t “feel” like it represents God well. We are to not only do the right thing, we are often to do the right things in the midst of suffering. A cruciform understanding of the Christian life—the way of self-denial and of suffering as demonstrated by Jesus—is a radical proclamation to our world.
“The way of suffering is the divinely intended manner of bringing the greatest victory of God into the world.” - Scot McKnight
There’s a famous poem that was written on the wall in Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta, a version of Dr. Kent Keith’s Paradoxical Commandments:
People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.
Life is hard. Injustice happens. We suffer. But there’s more to the story. God is watching. He will right all wrongs someday. It’s gonna be worth it someday.
“Life isn’t fair.” For the follower of Jesus, this is actually good news. You don’t want what you deserve! We all deserve eternal separation from God for our sins. It’s only grace that allows us forgiveness. Only the blood of Jesus can wash away our sins and make us white as snow. Only Christ’s broken body can mend our broken relationship with our heavenly Father. Praise God life isn’t fair!
The world is watching us. So is the Good Shepherd. Hallelujah!
In the end, it's going to be Worth It All.
Credits
Some ideas from
Be Hopeful (1 Peter): How to Make the Best of Times Out of Your Worst of Times (The BE Series Commentary) by Warren
Thru The Bible audio messages by J. Vernon McGee
1 Peter (The NIV Application Commentary) by Scot McKnight
You can listen to this message and others at the Scio podcast here. You can also subscribe to our podcast here.
Series: What In The World Is Going On? A Study of 1 Peter
1 Peter 2:11-25
Series Overview: God’s grace is present in the midst of suffering.
Big Idea: Suffer like Jesus…God is watching.
Introduction
This morning we continue our series on 1 Peter, “What In The World Is Going On?” This short letter to the early, suffering church is a powerful message not only to an ancient people but is increasing relevant to modern Christians as we face persecution. We may never face the horrors of ISIS victims, but nevertheless we can—and perhaps should—feel in the minority as followers of Jesus in a world consumed with money, sex and power. The theme of this book may well be called hope and grace in the midst of suffering. In the first three weeks we looked at hope, holiness, and harmony.
As we continue our series on 1 Peter, our text for today reminds us about time. Time is a fascinating dimension to life. We often struggle to be fully present in the moment, instead reminiscing about the past or dreaming about the future.
Patience is related to the future. We want things now. Last Sunday we sang about waiting on the LORD, something I struggle to do, knowing that God’s timing is never late but rarely early. If only He would answer my prayers instantly like a genie in a lamp, yet Daddy knows best and can be trusted, even His timing. Perhaps in hindsight you’re glad God waited to answer a prayer.
One of the most common expressions among children is, “It’s not fair!” Did I say children?! Adults say it all the time, too! The great theological Bill Gates said, “Life is not fair. Get used to it.” We live in a broken, sinful world where injustices are all around us. Often the best we can hope for is some sort of restitution or reconciliation through a judge or jury.
But what if you knew justice would prevail? What if you could be certain all wrongs would be righted, all perpetrators would be punished, and all suffering would be rewarded?
It all brings fairness and time into question. Our scripture today is full of encouragement from Peter to those suffering, reminding them their present suffering is not the end. There is more to their story. Judgment Day is coming, a day of reckoning, a day in which many will rejoice while others suffer the consequences of their unrighteousness.
Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. (2:11)
Last week we read Peter’s instruction to get rid of sin. Throughout every day we make decisions to follow the world or Jesus. These exiles—like us—are in the midst of a war between good and evil, between God and satan. We are in the midst of a spiritual battle. D.L. Moody once said, “I have more trouble with D.L. Moody than with any man I know.” Never confuse people as being the enemy. The real enemy is satan.
We were sinners but we’ve become adopted children of God. We are strangers/sojourners/pilgrims, resident aliens with citizenship in heaven. That’s immensely important. Foreigners and exiles approach life differently than citizens. Peter’s friends were literally exiles; we are not.
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. (2:12)
Have you ever been punished for doing the right thing? Have you ever been despised by cheaters for being honest? Have you ever been mocked for studying by those who failed the test? Often our greatest critics are merely envious.
I’ve seen this frequently with pastors. Thanks to the internet, everyone can have their own platform for sharing their opinion with the world. I’m truly sick and tired of hearing people trash pastors of large churches that are often doing more for the kingdom of God than their sorry whining will ever do. Sure, there are heretics that preach harmful things, but I’ve heard people attack some of the most respected people and I have to wonder if they’re just envious.
Good deeds are a witness to the world. We need words and deeds in shining the light of Jesus into our dark world.
Peter continues…
Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. (2:13-15)
This is a fascinating passage. It’s easy to think of our government but remember the context. Nero was coming to the throne in Rome as the new emperor. Life was hard for followers of Jesus. Peter’s not saying dishonor God, but he seems to be saying obey the law, submit to authority.
Daniel and his friends disobeyed the law but did so in a way that honored the king and respected authority (Daniel 1). They held their convictions and glorified God in the process. In Acts 4-5, Peter and his colleagues refused to stop preaching as commanded, yet they showed respect to their leaders in the process.
Note the last sentence. Again we see actions speak louder than words, in this case our good actions silencing—literally muzzle—fools.
Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. (2:16-17)
We have freedom. We have liberty—far more than Peter’s audience—but we must not abuse our freedoms. We are free but we’re God’s servants. God’s slaves. When we call God LORD we are declaring ourselves to be under His authority. We are to use our freedom to help, serve, and bless others as Nehemiah did restoring the Jerusalem walls.
He says to show “proper respect to everyone.” I wish more Christians would follow this simple instruction, especially during these political campaigns. How we submit to authority is a part of our witness to the world. Going 85 miles an hour on the expressway with a “Jesus Loves You” bumper sticker sends the wrong message.
He reiterates the command to love the family of believers. Note the context of authority. One way we love one another is by submitting to the authority of godly leaders in the church.
He says fear—or have awe for—God. Give honor to the emperor, the king, the president. The office is to be honored even if you disagree with their politics. No matter your dislike for a politician, they are created with dignity, value and worth in the image of God. Pray for them. The verbs literally mean to keep loving, keep fearing, keep honoring…constantly. This is no mere suggestion. The book of Romans says…
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. (Romans 13:1)
This all echoes Solomon’s wisdom:
Fear the Lord and the king, my son…(Proverbs 24:21)
I admit this can be tricky. Not every nation has a church and state separation. Facebook is abuzz with Christians supporting and opposing Kim Davis for her decisions as a county clerk in Kentucky. What do you do when the law and the Word of God are in conflict?
Perhaps one word to consider is power. Jesus did not come to overthrow the government of His day, though many hoped He would. As He entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday the people shouted, “Hosanna!” which means “Save us now!” He will exercise His power when He returns, but He modeled for us a servant’s posture. Whenever I see pride or self-serving power exerted I get nervous in a hurry!
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. (2:18-21)
First century slavery was different than the horror of slavery in the USA up to our Civil War. It was generally a temporary condition that included possibly one-third of the population. Many chose to be slaves for a season in order to become full Roman citizens. Peter’s words regarding obedience as slaves may have been partially so they could be set free. Powerful masters had powerful slaves, so for some, it was a valuable position. Some slaves were doctors, teachers, and even sea-captains.
It wasn’t necessary an easy life, however. Some slaves were both physically abused and made sexually available to their masters. Scott Bartchy writes,
“Central features that distinguish 1st century slavery from that later practiced in the New World are the following: racial factors played no role; education was greatly encouraged (some slaves were better educated than their owners) and enhanced a slave’s value; many slaves carried out sensitive and highly responsible social functions; slaves could own property (including other slaves!); their religious and cultural traditions were the same as those of the freeborn; no laws prohibited public assembly of slaves; and (perhaps above all) the majority of urban and domestic slaves could legitimately anticipate being emancipated by the age of 30.”
Submit. Not a popular word in our culture, or perhaps any. None of us truly understand the life of a slave. Some liken their boss to a slave master. No matter your job, our nation affords us all certain freedoms unimaginable to those in other places and/or other times in history. We can’t fully appreciate the weight of Peter’s words except to say do the right thing, even if you’re not rewarded for it…now. Someday you will receive your reward.
Work as unto the LORD. Paul wrote to the church in Colossae…
Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism. (Colossians 3:22-25)
Submit to the authority of your boss. When wronged, it’s human nature to want to fight, but we are to submit and let God fight. This doesn’t mean be a doormat or tolerate abuse, but it does mean remember God is watching.
Jesus understands. Jesus suffered. Not only did He suffer for doing good, He did it to both set an example for us and to sacrifice for us. He died for you and for me. He served through suffering.
“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” (2:22)
He lived a perfect life, yet He was executed, wrongfully accused. He suffered the ultimate suffering for doing good. He lived the cruciform life, shaped by the cross.
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. (2:23-25)
Peter quotes Isaiah 53. It’s such a paradox that we have been healed by His wounds, His suffering.
Jesus’ life set an example for us.
Jesus’ death was a sacrifice for us.
Jesus is now our Shepherd and will return soon.
So What?
This passage is loaded with application possibilities. I say possibilities because the relationship between us and government can be tricky. Civil disobedience may be justified, but we must respect our leaders. Enduring a difficult job and serving wholeheartedly may be God’s desire and a great witness to others. Demonstrating kindness, generosity, humility, honesty, and loyalty when we don’t “feel” like it represents God well. We are to not only do the right thing, we are often to do the right things in the midst of suffering. A cruciform understanding of the Christian life—the way of self-denial and of suffering as demonstrated by Jesus—is a radical proclamation to our world.
“The way of suffering is the divinely intended manner of bringing the greatest victory of God into the world.” - Scot McKnight
There’s a famous poem that was written on the wall in Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta, a version of Dr. Kent Keith’s Paradoxical Commandments:
People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.
Life is hard. Injustice happens. We suffer. But there’s more to the story. God is watching. He will right all wrongs someday. It’s gonna be worth it someday.
“Life isn’t fair.” For the follower of Jesus, this is actually good news. You don’t want what you deserve! We all deserve eternal separation from God for our sins. It’s only grace that allows us forgiveness. Only the blood of Jesus can wash away our sins and make us white as snow. Only Christ’s broken body can mend our broken relationship with our heavenly Father. Praise God life isn’t fair!
The world is watching us. So is the Good Shepherd. Hallelujah!
In the end, it's going to be Worth It All.
Credits
Some ideas from
Be Hopeful (1 Peter): How to Make the Best of Times Out of Your Worst of Times (The BE Series Commentary) by Warren
Thru The Bible audio messages by J. Vernon McGee
1 Peter (The NIV Application Commentary) by Scot McKnight
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