Honor the King
December 21, 1998
Dear Friends,
This past weekend, for the first time since just after the Civil War, a US President was impeached. The crimes for which the President was impeached were twofold: perjury and obstruction of justice. Even the most casual observer will note that there is little correlation between his crimes from a constitutional point of view and his sins from a Godly point of view. There was no formal condemnation from the US House of Representatives for adultery or lying (except under oath – as if that was the only time lying counted!).
As believers, we look on as interested observers; fully aware that we are only strangers and pilgrims in this world. This is not our government nor our citizenship. Our leader is perfect and no longer susceptible to the weaknesses of the flesh. We are passing through time as sojourners waiting for the redemption of our bodies. Although we have a duty to teach in word and action what is right and wrong, we do not have the right to show disrespect to the leaders God put in place in a country in which we are only ambassadors.
This week, let us remember the words of 1 Peter 2:13 and 17 where it states “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority…Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.” (NIV) Remember too that this was written by the apostle Peter during the reign of Nero – one of the most vile rulers ever to walk the face of the earth.
As people gather around at work, home or the classroom to talk about this weekend’s events, let us not contribute to the conversations that belittle the President. Instead, think about how you will use this opportunity to tell others about the virtues of our King and how time spent in his service will not lead to disappointment. Let us use this opportunity this week to follow another admonition in 1 Peter in which he exhorts, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” (NIV)
Have a great week!
Comments»
No comments yet.