Continuing our verse-by-verse study of 1 Peter, we conclude our exposition of 1 Peter 2:9-12 by recalling Peter’s teaching that Christians should expect hostility from unbelievers.
Unbelievers will speak against Christians–and yet–at the same time, unbelievers may be drawn to Christ because of the consistent holiness of the very ones against whom they speak.
Live So Your Behavior Points People to Christ
Here’s how Peter puts it in verse 12:
having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles (unbelievers), that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may (at the same time), by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation. (1 Peter 2:12)
Godly behavior is not just for our benefit, but for the benefit of others. We live to set the example for what it means to be wholly devoted to God.
Holiness is “to be wholly God’s.”
When we live for the Lord, unbelievers take note. They see that we are different and they are often drawn to Christ because of that difference. They want what we have.
It’s similar to what Jesus said in the Sermon On The Mount:
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16
Again: godly behavior is not just for our benefit, but for the benefit of others. Paul agrees:
“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.”
Philippians 2:14-15
So let’s watch our behavior. Let’s live differently at home, at work, at school, and at gathered parties & events.
We cannot overemphasize this. The way to follow Christ in a hostile world–the way to live before unbelievers who disagree with our Christian faith–is not to get in heated arguments with them.
Nor does Peter say, “Defend yourself” or, “When you’re wronged, start a petition,” or “form political alliances and coalitions.”
No, Peter simply says, “Live so your behavior points people to Christ.” Be winsome and engaging. Not everyone will be drawn to Christ by your actions, but some will.
What About You?
- Are you “wholly God’s” or is there a sinful behavior keeping you from being completely dedicated to Him? If so, take a moment right now to confess that sin and repent.
- Consider living your life today as though an unbeliever were with you everywhere you go–will that person be drawn to Christ by your consistent holiness?
- In light of the verses to follow (1 Peter 2:13-17), are there ever times Christians should form political alliances or coalitions?
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