a) Outline Peter's teaching on Christians' attitude to civil authorities. (b) State three reasons for...

Explanation

PETER'S TEACHING ON CHRISTIANS' ATTITUDE TO CIVIL AUTHORITIES (1 PETER 2:13-17)

i. A Christian should be law abiding and have respect for constituted authority. .

ii. Such Christians should discharge their civic duties and responsibilities promptly to all men.

iii. Peter taught that a good Christian should submit himself to every human institution and respect them, including the authorities of the state, e.g Governors etc.

iv. For it is God who appointed kings to punish wrong doers and to reward those who do good.

v. He stressed that Christians' good behaviour, would put to shame the ignorance of foolish men.

vi. As men who have been liberated from the curse of the law, a good Christian citizen should live as a freeman without using his freedom as a pretext for evil.

vii. But he should live as an obedient servant of God.

viii. Besides, he should respect every man and love the brotherhood of believers.

ix. Furthermore, he should fear God and honour the king and rulers.

B. REASONS FOR SUBMISSION TO CIVIL AUTHORITIES

i. It enhances peace and orderliness.

ii. It ensures development in the country.

iii. Christians' obedience to the law influences people to come to know the true God.

iv. Obedience to authorities is obligatory because authorities are ordained by God.

v. Christians enjoy protection and security when laws are made and obeyed.

vi. It creates harmonious environment for the worship of God.

vii. It is a service to God as it was God's own command that Christians should be submissive to authorities