The Story: The truth of Jesus Christ makes Christians free from the power of sin and the allure of the sinful spirit of the age (Jn. 8.32). We do not have to live as others do because we serve the living God, and His Word of truth lights the path we walk. We’re free from what others are slaves to, but we’re not free to do whatever we want. Rather, we must ever employ our freedom, as servants of God, to communicate His love and truth to others. How do we do that? By our words, to be sure. But also by showing proper reverence, respect, deference, honor, and love to the people around us. Think about your own experience each week: How much of honor, deference, reverence, and respect do you experience from the people around you? On the other hand, if Christians could learn to give these qualities more consistently, how might that pique the souls of our neighbors to learn more about this way of life that sets us free from the degraded mores of the day?

The Structure: These are active virtues and require that we think carefully about how to fulfill what Peter says is our freedom as servants of God. What does it mean to honor and love the people around us? Is this more than just an attitude or an outlook? Is it not also a way of speaking, being together, serving, working, and helping others? Remember: this is what God commands us to do as part of His will for us. If we fear Him – and love Him as well – we will work hard to carry out His command. And then we will make His presence known to people more emphatically and consistently every day.

Define “honor” as a verb toward other people. How does the fear of God lead you to love and honor others?

Each week’s studies in our Scriptorium column are available in a free PDF form, suitable for personal or group use. For this week’s study, “Lived Witness: 1 Peter 2.13-25,” simply click here.

T. M. Moore

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.