1 Peter 2:13

The Message

Make the Master proud of you by being good citizens. Respect the authorities, whatever their level; they are God’s emissaries for keeping order. It is God’s will that by doing good, you might cure the ignorance of the fools who think you’re a danger to society. Exercise your freedom by serving God, not by breaking the rules. Treat everyone you meet with dignity. Love your spiritual family. Revere God. Respect the government.

Cross References

Proverbs 17:11

Criminals out looking for nothing but trouble won’t have to wait long—they’ll meet it coming and going!

Proverbs 24:21

Fear God, dear child—respect your leaders; don’t be defiant or mutinous. Without warning your life can turn upside down, and who knows how or when it might happen?

Jeremiah 29:7

“Make yourselves at home there and work for the country’s welfare. “Pray for Babylon’s well-being. If things go well for Babylon, things will go well for you.”

Matthew 22:21

They said, “Caesar.” “Then give Caesar what is his, and give God what is his.”

Mark 12:17

Jesus said, “Give Caesar what is his, and give God what is his.” Their mouths hung open, speechless.

Luke 20:25

“Caesar,” they said. Jesus said, “Then give Caesar what is his and give God what is his.”

Ephesians 5:21

Out of respect for Christ, be courteously reverent to one another.

Titus 3:1

Remind the people to respect the government and be law-abiding, always ready to lend a helping hand. No insults, no fights. God’s people should be bighearted and courteous.

2 Peter 2:10

God is especially incensed against these “teachers” who live by lust, addicted to a filthy existence. They despise interference from true authority, preferring to indulge in self-rule. Insolent egotists, they don’t hesitate to speak evil against the most splendid of creatures. Even angels, their superiors in every way, wouldn’t think of throwing their weight around like that, trying to slander others before God.