1 Peter 2:13-25
13 Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.
18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (1 Pe 2:13-25). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
You are subject to God our Father who created you and all things. God has given you your eyes ears and all your members. He has also given you people around you to take care of and help you in times of need. Jesus Christ was also given to you by our Father to redeem you from your sins. Jesus Christ is your Lord and Master who has bought you with a price.
You should fear God and honor all those in authority over you. Sometimes it is more entertaining to laugh at or make fun of our various elected officials. These officials have been placed in this position by God. When human leaders act like humans they reveal that we are all sinful human beings. People often like to think that leaders or even professionals need to act above reproach. But God requires the same thing from everyone. You should remember all your own shortfalls when you laugh at someone else's. You should also remember the 4th Commandment.
God has placed people in authority over you to protect you and help you in times of trouble. Christ is your Lord who has redeemed you and bought you with a price. He has called you to become his Holy Slaves. He has healed you from your wound of Sin. St Peter says, "For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls." You have come to Jesus Christ who forgiveness you of all your sins.
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