1 Peter 2:14
We should submit to civil magistrates because they are ordained by God and are responsible for punishing evildoers and rewarding the righteous.
John Gill emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities as ordained by God, explaining that these officials are tasked with punishing evildoers and rewarding those who do good. He highlights that such submission is not only a civic duty but also a spiritual one, as it reflects obedience to God's order. Gill points out that the role of magistrates is to maintain justice and peace within society, serving as instruments of God's will. The sermon encourages believers to recognize the divine purpose behind earthly authorities and to act in accordance with the laws of both God and man.
Text
Ver. 14. Or unto governors,.... Inferior magistrates, such as were under the Roman emperor; as proconsuls, procurators, &c. such as Pontius Pilate, Felix, and Festus, who had under the emperor the government of particular nations, provinces, and cities:
as unto them that are sent by him; either by the king, the Roman emperor, by whom they were sent, from whom they received their commission, and derived their authority, under whom they acted, and to whom they were accountable; or by God, by whom they are ordained, and whose ministers they are, and for the ends hereafter mentioned; so that this contains an argument or reason why they should be submitted to:
for the punishment of evildoers; the breakers of the laws of God and men, on whom punishment is to be inflicted, by the civil magistrates, for the breach of them, by lines, scourgings, imprisonment, and death itself, according as the crimes are:
and for the praise of them that do well; who behave according to the laws of God and nations, and are obedient to magistrates, and subject to every ordinance; these have praise of men, of magistrates, and are rewarded by them; by protecting their persons, defending their properties, and preserving them in the peaceable enjoyment of their estates and possessions; see Ro 13:3.
Sermon Outline
- Submission to Civil Magistrates
- Reasons for Submission
- Consequences of Submission
- Praise from Men
- Protection and Reward
Key Quotes
“such as Pontius Pilate, Felix, and Festus, who had under the emperor the government of particular nations, provinces, and cities” — John Gill
“for the punishment of evildoers; the breakers of the laws of God and men, on whom punishment is to be inflicted” — John Gill
“and for the praise of them that do well; who behave according to the laws of God and nations” — John Gill
Application Points
- We should submit to civil magistrates as a way of honoring God and upholding His laws.
- Civil magistrates have the authority to punish evildoers and reward the righteous, and we should respect their authority.
- Submission to civil magistrates is a key aspect of living a righteous life and pleasing God.