(a) Explain Peter's concept of a good citizen. (b) Identify any three qualities of a...

Explanation

(a) Peter began with a general admonition to Christians to be subject, for the Lord's sake, to every human institution, whether it is to the emperor as the supreme authority on earth, or to the government appointed by him to oversee the administration with delegated powers to punish offenders or reward those who do right, for this is the will of God, the ultimate power behind these earthly authorities. He said that by doing the right thing, they would put to shame the ignorance of foolish men. He admonished them to live as men free from the curse of the law and not to misuse their liberty as a pretext for evil. He said they should rather live as servants of God with the fear of God. They should honour all men, love the Christians brotherhood and honour the emperor.

(b) The qualities of a good citizen are:

(i) He should have love for his nation and its legitimate institutions, both civil and religious.

(ii) He should obey all laws and regulations set up for the smooth administration of the country.

(iii) If the need arises, a good citizen should even fight to defend the territorial integrity of his nation if other options, including dialogue, fail.

(iv) He should, as far as possible, co-operate with the security agents in maintaining law and order, internal peace, and in checking criminal tendencies.

(v) He should pray for the nation's leaders, asking God to imbue them with the wisdom to rule with the fear of God.

(vi) He should be altruistic, have due regard for others and ensure to live at peace with others.

(vii) A good citizen must never be party to any subversive movement or aid and abet any form of corruption and immorality.