Rev. Don Campbell
PRACTICING OUR PRIESTHOOD
Peter addresses his first epistle to sojourners or temporary residents in a country that is hostile to them. Paul said that our citizenship is in heaven. However, so long as we sojourn here, we have an essential role. We are God’s chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation within a nation (1 Pet 2:9). In chapters two and three, Peter sets forth seven priestly responsibilities relevant to our status:
One, we conduct ourselves honorably (2:12).
Two, we practice civil obedience (2:13-17).
Three, we do our job, whatever our station in life (2:18).
Four, whatever our circumstances, including persecution, we commit ourselves to Him who judges righteously (2:23).
Five, we honor marital commitments (3:1-7).
Six, we act with civility in all matters with all people (3:8-12)
Seven, we stand ready to give anyone who asks a reason for the hope within us (3:15-16).
Our role as priests is not to meddle in other people’s business (4:15), nor to champion political, ideological, psychological, sociological, or any other worldly cause. As citizens, we may take an interest in some of these and involve ourselves in them. However, as priests to God, we are to avoid becoming entangled in the things of the world (2 Tim 2:4, ESV).
We are reminded of Jesus’ own words: “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matt 5:13-16).
