“You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession. Live the rest of your lives as a revelation and declaration of God’s glory and grace. In his generosity and kindness he called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (Paraphrase 1Pet.2:9).
“Live such good lives among the pagans (the “Left,” “Right,” Other, and Neither) that, though they deride you, they’ll see your good deeds and glorify God on the Day he visits us”—the Day Jesus returns to finish making all things new (1Pet.2:12, Rev.21:5).
“Respect everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor” (1Pet. 2:17)
Lord Jesus, it’s getting more and more complicated to live as your beloved Bride in this crazy world of ours. We ask you to do the same work in our hearts that you did in the Apostle Peter’s. Nothing but the Gospel can explain the change in Peter’s life reflected in these verses. He went from being an angry separatist to living as an engaged citizen in your now and coming Kingdom. Faith sabotaged his fear, hope supplanted his despair, and love replaced his unbelief.
When political forces tried to arrest you (Matt.26:53). Peter tried to defend you. But you’ve could’ve dispatched “twelve legions of angels” to rescue you. The same angels you could’ve dispatched then remain at your beckoning call today. You don’t need our little knives, but we do ask you to use the sword of your Word on us.
In February 2026 you “control the course of world events—sitting down and setting up kings at your discretion” (Dan.2:21)—just like you always have. Forgive us for ignoring, minimizing, or under-believing this glorious reality. So, very practically, Jesus, show us how to “Respect everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor” (1Pet.2:17).
How was it possible for Peter and his friends to “honor” Nero—a true narcissist and tyrant? By praying for him, and serving you as their present, true, and eternal King. Do the same in and for us, Jesus. Fill us afresh with the Holy Spirit. Until you return and finish making all things new, show us how to live as salt and light—not as flame throwers or naïve pacifists—not as kiss-ups, give-ins, or bail-outs. So Very Amen.
