1 Peter 2:17
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Honour all men - That is, Give honor to whom honor is due, Rom 13:7. Respect every man as a fellow creature, and as one who may be a fellow heir with you of eternal life; and therefore be ready to give him every kind of succor in your power. Love the brotherhood - All true Christians, who form one great family of which God is the head. Fear God - Who gives you these commandments, lest he punish you for disobedience. Honour the king - Pay that respect to the emperor which his high authority requires, knowing that civil power is of God; that the authority with which he, in the course of his providence, has invested him, must be respected in order to its being obeyed; and that if the man be even bad, and as a man be worthy of no reverence, yet he should be respected on account of his office. If respect be banished, subordination will flee with it, and anarchy and ruin will rise up in their place. Truly religious persons are never found in seditions. Hypocrites may join themselves with any class of the workers of iniquity, and say, Hail, brethren!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Honour all men--according to whatever honor is due in each case. Equals have a respect due to them. Christ has dignified our humanity by assuming it; therefore we should not dishonor, but be considerate to and honor our common humanity, even in the very humblest. The first "honor" is in the Greek aorist imperative, implying, "In every case render promptly every man's due" [ALFORD]. The second is in the present tense, implying, Habitually and continually honor the king. Thus the first is the general precept; the three following are its three great divisions. Love--present: Habitually love with the special and congenial affection that you ought to feel to brethren, besides the general love to all men. Fear God . . . the king--The king is to be honored; but God alone, in the highest sense, feared.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Servants, be subject to your masters,.... This was another notion of the Jews, that because they were the seed of Abraham, they ought not to be the servants of any; and particularly such as were believers in Christ thought they ought not to serve unbelieving masters, nor indeed believing ones, because they were equally brethren in Christ with them; hence the Apostle Peter, here, as the Apostle Paul frequently elsewhere, inculcates this duty of servants to their masters; see Co1 7:20 Ti2 2:9 the manner in which they are to be subject to them is, with all fear; with reverence to their persons, strict regard to their commands, faithfulness in any trust reposed in them, diligence in the discharge of their duty, and carefulness of offending them: and all this, not only to the good and gentle; those that are good natured, kind, beneficent, and merciful; that do not use them with rigour and severity; are moderate in their demands of service; require no more to be done than what is reasonable; allow them sufficient diet, give them good wages, and pay them duly: but also to the froward; the ill natured, morose, and rigorous; who exact more labour than is requisite; give hard words, and harder blows; withhold sufficiency of food from them, and keep back the hire of their labours.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:17 the family of believers: Literally the brotherhood; see study note on 5:9. • Fear God, and respect the king: Peter might be reflecting on Jesus’ balanced statement about the Christian’s duty to both God and the government (see Matt 22:21).
1 Peter 2:17
Submission to Authorities
16Live in freedom, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17Treat everyone with high regard: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 24): Venerate All God's Creation
By A.W. Tozer15K40:34CreationPSA 104:2PSA 104:5PRO 3:9MAT 22:21EPH 5:331PE 2:17In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the verse from Peter, chapter 2, verse 17: "Honor all men, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king." The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding existence from a theological perspective, seeing things from the sanctuary to gain true focus. He describes how fragmented bits of truth in various fields of study can only be fully understood when seen in the context of the main sphere of truth. The speaker then references Psalm 104 to illustrate the beauty and order of nature, highlighting how God provides for all creatures. However, he also laments how humanity has become consumed with utility and material gain, losing sight of the true purpose of life.
Five Rules for Holy Living
By A.W. Tozer4.3K23:06Holy LivingGEN 1:27PSA 103:20ISA 43:4MAL 3:17MAT 5:441PE 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of praising and blessing the Lord. He highlights various elements of creation such as water, sun, moon, stars, wind, heat, fire, winter, summer, frost, dew, ice, and snow, all of which sing and reflect God's glory. The preacher also mentions that although we cannot physically see God, we can hear Him sing through His creation and feel His presence in our lives. He encourages believers to have a reverent esteem for all things, viewing them as celestial and recognizing the face of Jesus Christ shining through the fallen world. Additionally, the preacher emphasizes the importance of love within the brotherhood of redeemed souls, both on the natural and spiritual planes.
The Kingdom vs. Patriotism
By Art Katz3.0K54:48American PatriotismMAT 6:33ROM 13:12CO 10:3EPH 6:12COL 1:131PE 2:17REV 11:15The video is a sermon transcript discussing the book written by John ML Young, a missionary in Japan. The speaker describes Young as an evangelical, fundamental Christian missionary who had a deep understanding of Christianity but may not have been familiar with the realm of the spirit. The speaker highlights Young's ability to critique and examine topics, noting that this is often lacking in spirit-filled individuals. The sermon emphasizes the conflict between the kingdom of God and the kingdoms of the world, particularly in the context of Japan's Shinto militarism and the rise of nationalism.
A Reverential Fear of God
By Zac Poonen2.3K1:08:101CO 2:32CO 7:1EPH 5:21PHP 2:12HEB 4:11PE 1:171PE 2:11PE 2:171PE 2:211PE 3:11PE 3:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of reverent fear of God in our lives, highlighting the need to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, to live in obedience and holiness, and to be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. It addresses the danger of moving from legalism to a state of no covenant, where secret sins and worldliness can creep in, leading to a decline in godliness. The speaker urges a return to a healthy balance, seeking God earnestly, fasting, praying, and evaluating our lives regularly to ensure we are walking in the true grace of God.
Some Things I Have Learnt in 50 Years Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.8K52:21LEV 19:32JOB 36:5JHN 17:232CO 9:7JAS 1:26JAS 3:91PE 2:171PE 3:151JN 2:6This sermon emphasizes four key lessons learned over 50 years as a believer: 1. Understanding God's immense love for us, equal to His love for Jesus, provides security and eradicates insecurity. 2. Embracing honesty before God, acknowledging failures without pretense, is vital for true repentance. 3. Recognizing that God desires cheerful, voluntary obedience, not compelled actions, fosters genuine worship. 4. Treating every human being with dignity, honoring all as made in God's image, reflects true reverence for God and transforms our interactions.
Exhortation and Explanation
By Willie Mullan1.4K1:01:46ExhortationMAT 21:22MAT 23:11LUK 18:11PE 1:221PE 2:171PE 3:8In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of unity and compassion among believers. He refers to the events leading up to Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The speaker emphasizes the need for believers to bless those who do evil to them, using the example of Paul and Silas being mistreated in Philippi. He then references 1 Peter 3:8-9, which encourages believers to be of one mind, love one another, and not repay evil with evil, but instead bless others. The sermon concludes with the reminder that by following these principles, believers will inherit a blessing.
The Fear of God (01) Introduction
By Don Courville1.2K1:04:11Fear Of God1SA 4:111CH 13:91CO 11:301PE 2:17In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of witnessing a man struggling to walk and falling down. Instead of laughing, the speaker realizes that this is an opportunity from God. The sermon then focuses on the theme of fear, specifically the fear of God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living with the fear of God in our lives and how it should impact our worship. The sermon concludes with the speaker sharing seven lessons about the fear of God and the need to have more love for God in our hearts.
Who Can Stand Against Us (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:01:18GEN 2:18LEV 19:32MAT 16:18EPH 2:20JAS 2:51PE 2:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of building God's church, drawing parallels between Noah building the ark and believers building the church today. It encourages believers to be like Noah and his wife, wholeheartedly committed to serving God by actively participating in building the church and supporting fellow believers. The sermon highlights the need to honor all individuals, cooperate with Jesus in His work, and avoid destructive criticism within the church.
Fear God
By Eli Brayley1.2K1:04:15Fearing GodPSA 111:10PRO 9:10ECC 12:13MAT 6:33HEB 12:281PE 2:17REV 14:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of fearing God. He emphasizes that the lack of fear of God is the fundamental problem with mankind. The preacher highlights that salvation depends on the fear of God and that God's mercy is upon those who fear Him. He also mentions the positive feedback loop that occurs when awe and fear of God increase, leading to a greater understanding of His greatness and a deeper reverence for Him.
Taking Sin Seriously
By Zac Poonen6431:08:28GEN 4:6LEV 19:32MAT 12:34MAT 12:37ROM 3:182CO 4:4PHP 3:17JAS 1:261PE 2:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of following the example of missionaries and early Christians who sacrificed greatly to spread the Gospel. It highlights the need for genuine missionaries who are passionate about reaching the lost for Christ, unlike those who come for short-term trips for personal reasons. The speaker challenges listeners to live a life of purpose and impact, focusing on respecting others, controlling the tongue, and being a light in the world by following the footsteps of Jesus in love and faith.
1 Peter 5:9
By John Gill0Resisting TemptationPerseverance in FaithJHN 16:33ROM 8:181CO 10:13EPH 6:162TI 3:12HEB 10:23JAS 1:121PE 2:171PE 5:9REV 2:10John Gill emphasizes the importance of resisting Satan by standing firm in faith and not yielding to temptation or sin. He encourages believers to hold steadfastly to their faith, relying on God's promises and the power of Christ to shield them from the enemy's attacks. Gill reminds the congregation that they are not alone in their struggles, as fellow believers around the world face similar afflictions, and these trials are temporary. He reassures them that enduring these challenges is part of the Christian experience, and they will ultimately be completed in this life. The message is one of perseverance, faithfulness, and hope in the face of adversity.
Prayer for Rulers.
By Edward Payson0PSA 72:1PRO 11:14PRO 16:12PRO 21:1ECC 8:2ROM 13:1COL 4:21TI 2:1JAS 1:51PE 2:17Edward Payson preaches on the importance of praying for those in authority, emphasizing the need to intercede for rulers and leaders as they face unique challenges and temptations in fulfilling their duties. He highlights the responsibility and accountability that come with positions of authority, stressing the impact of their actions on the nation and the importance of seeking wisdom and grace through prayer. Payson urges the congregation to pray fervently for leaders to govern with integrity, justice, and God's guidance, recognizing the significant role rulers play in shaping the moral and spiritual fabric of society.
Lincoln and the Church
By Elton Trueblood0MAT 22:37MRK 12:29LUK 10:271CO 1:10COL 3:141TH 5:21HEB 10:24JAS 1:271PE 2:17Abraham Lincoln's theology did not require him to be a member of a particular church, as his faith was centered more in the Bible than in the Church. His failure to join a church was common in his time, where church membership was not as central as it is in modern times. Lincoln's respect for churches grew during his presidency, especially as he faced criticism from some church members and clergy. Despite not joining a specific church, Lincoln admired various denominations and recognized the importance of organized worshiping groups.
Honour the Bishop
By Ignatius of Antioch0PRO 20:25PRO 23:171TI 5:17HEB 13:171PE 2:17Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of repentance towards God and the need to honor both God and earthly authorities, highlighting the significance of respecting bishops as high priests and kings as rulers who maintain peace and order. He stresses the unity and order within the Church, stating that those who dishonor the bishop disrupt this unity and face severe consequences. Ignatius urges for a hierarchy of respect within the Church, with the laity subject to deacons, deacons to presbyters, presbyters to bishops, and bishops to Christ.
Proverbs 1:7
By Chuck Smith0Fear Of The LordWisdomJOB 28:28PSA 111:10PRO 1:7PRO 2:5PRO 3:7PRO 9:10PRO 14:27ECC 12:13ISA 33:61PE 2:17Chuck Smith emphasizes that the fear of the Lord is foundational to all true knowledge and wisdom, explaining that this fear is rooted in reverence, awe, and a proper understanding of God's holiness and might. He discusses how this fear leads to a submission to God, highlighting that it is not merely the starting point but the totality of wisdom. Smith encourages believers to cultivate a proper concept of God as Creator, Preserver, and Redeemer, which fosters a healthy fear that drives them to seek knowledge and wisdom.
1 Peter 2:17
By John Gill0HonorLove for OthersROM 13:11PE 2:17John Gill emphasizes the importance of honoring all people, regardless of their background or status, as a reflection of God's love and grace. He encourages believers to love their fellow Christians and to show respect to everyone, including those in authority, even if they are unworthy in character. The sermon highlights that a proper fear of God leads to a respectful attitude towards others and a commitment to love the brotherhood. Gill stresses that this love should be expressed through both words and actions, fostering unity among believers. Ultimately, honoring God and others is a fundamental aspect of Christian living.
The Christian and His Country
By Timothy Tow0PSA 130:3PRO 24:21ROM 13:1ROM 13:61TI 2:11PE 2:17Timothy Tow delivers a sermon on 'The Christian and His Country' on the occasion of Singapore's 36th Anniversary, emphasizing the dual citizenship of Christians in the Kingdom of Heaven and their earthly country. He contrasts the living conditions in Singapore with the poverty in Cambodia, highlighting the importance of gratitude towards the government and God's blessings. Tow stresses the duty of submission to authorities, paying taxes, and serving one's nation with honor and loyalty, including fulfilling obligations like national service. He concludes with a call to pray for the nation's leaders, seeking peace, salvation, and God's guidance for a just and prosperous government.
The Juniors, Therefore, Should Honor Their Seniors
By St. Benedict of Nursia0ROM 12:10EPH 6:2PHP 2:31TI 5:11PE 2:17St. Benedict of Nursia preaches about the importance of honoring and showing love to one another based on their roles and ranks within the community. He emphasizes the significance of addressing each other with respect and reverence, with juniors honoring seniors and seniors loving juniors. St. Benedict highlights the Abbot's role as a representation of Christ, deserving of honor and respect, and encourages all members to reflect on their behavior to show themselves worthy of such honor.
The Fifth Commandment
By A.W. Pink0Obedience to GodHonor and AuthorityGEN 48:12EXO 20:121SA 24:11ROM 13:1EPH 6:2COL 3:201TI 5:17TIT 2:9HEB 13:171PE 2:17A.W. Pink emphasizes the broader implications of the Fifth Commandment, which calls for honoring not only our parents but all authorities established by God. He explains that this commandment is essential for maintaining order in society and that reverence should be shown to parents, rulers, and spiritual leaders alike, regardless of their worthiness. Pink highlights the reciprocal nature of this duty, urging obedience and respect from children to parents, subjects to rulers, and servants to masters. He also notes the promise of long life associated with honoring one's parents, which serves as both a motivation and a reminder of God's blessings. Ultimately, Pink calls for a return to the divine standard of respect and submission in a world increasingly marked by insubordination.
A Tribute to Leaders in the Past and Present
By A.B. Simpson0GratitudeHonoring LeadersPSA 100:4PRO 3:27ROM 13:7EPH 1:16PHP 1:3COL 3:151TH 5:181TI 5:17HEB 13:71PE 2:17A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of gratitude towards both past and present leaders, highlighting that expressing gratitude is a powerful force for healing and growth within our souls. He encourages us to be generous in our appreciation, suggesting that it is better to mistakenly credit someone than to overlook the contributions of those who deserve recognition. Simpson reflects on the profound debt we owe to the holy men who delivered the Scriptures and the saints who risked their lives to preserve them, urging us to honor their sacrifices and contributions.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Honour all men - That is, Give honor to whom honor is due, Rom 13:7. Respect every man as a fellow creature, and as one who may be a fellow heir with you of eternal life; and therefore be ready to give him every kind of succor in your power. Love the brotherhood - All true Christians, who form one great family of which God is the head. Fear God - Who gives you these commandments, lest he punish you for disobedience. Honour the king - Pay that respect to the emperor which his high authority requires, knowing that civil power is of God; that the authority with which he, in the course of his providence, has invested him, must be respected in order to its being obeyed; and that if the man be even bad, and as a man be worthy of no reverence, yet he should be respected on account of his office. If respect be banished, subordination will flee with it, and anarchy and ruin will rise up in their place. Truly religious persons are never found in seditions. Hypocrites may join themselves with any class of the workers of iniquity, and say, Hail, brethren!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Honour all men--according to whatever honor is due in each case. Equals have a respect due to them. Christ has dignified our humanity by assuming it; therefore we should not dishonor, but be considerate to and honor our common humanity, even in the very humblest. The first "honor" is in the Greek aorist imperative, implying, "In every case render promptly every man's due" [ALFORD]. The second is in the present tense, implying, Habitually and continually honor the king. Thus the first is the general precept; the three following are its three great divisions. Love--present: Habitually love with the special and congenial affection that you ought to feel to brethren, besides the general love to all men. Fear God . . . the king--The king is to be honored; but God alone, in the highest sense, feared.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Servants, be subject to your masters,.... This was another notion of the Jews, that because they were the seed of Abraham, they ought not to be the servants of any; and particularly such as were believers in Christ thought they ought not to serve unbelieving masters, nor indeed believing ones, because they were equally brethren in Christ with them; hence the Apostle Peter, here, as the Apostle Paul frequently elsewhere, inculcates this duty of servants to their masters; see Co1 7:20 Ti2 2:9 the manner in which they are to be subject to them is, with all fear; with reverence to their persons, strict regard to their commands, faithfulness in any trust reposed in them, diligence in the discharge of their duty, and carefulness of offending them: and all this, not only to the good and gentle; those that are good natured, kind, beneficent, and merciful; that do not use them with rigour and severity; are moderate in their demands of service; require no more to be done than what is reasonable; allow them sufficient diet, give them good wages, and pay them duly: but also to the froward; the ill natured, morose, and rigorous; who exact more labour than is requisite; give hard words, and harder blows; withhold sufficiency of food from them, and keep back the hire of their labours.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:17 the family of believers: Literally the brotherhood; see study note on 5:9. • Fear God, and respect the king: Peter might be reflecting on Jesus’ balanced statement about the Christian’s duty to both God and the government (see Matt 22:21).