Living as Strangers - 1 Peter 2:11-25
For the week of March 1-7, 2026
FREE PREVIEW: Living as Strangers - 1 Peter 2:11-25
This is a condensed preview of this week's full Bible study lesson, available exclusively to paid subscribers.
Introduction
Peter has established believers’ identity as God’s royal priesthood and holy nation. Now he addresses how this identity should shape their behavior in a watching world. Using the imagery of strangers and pilgrims, Peter shows that Christians live as resident aliens whose true citizenship is in heaven, yet whose earthly conduct powerfully testifies to God’s character.
This isn’t withdrawal from society but engaged living that honors God through submission, service, and willingness to suffer unjustly—following Christ’s own example.
I. RESIST Fleshly Desires
“Beloved, I beg you as foreigners and pilgrims, to abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; having good behavior among the nations” (1 Peter 2:11-12).
Our identity as strangers in this world demands we resist desires that wage war against our souls. Good conduct among unbelievers becomes powerful testimony when it contradicts worldly expectations and reflects our true homeland.
II. RESPECT Human Authority
“Therefore subject yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether to the king, as supreme; or to governors... For this is the will of God” (1 Peter 2:13-17).
Submission to human authority demonstrates that Christian freedom isn’t rebellion but willing service for the Lord’s sake. We honor all people, love believers, fear God, and respect earthly rulers as part of our witness.
III. REFLECT Christ’s Example
“For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow his steps, who... when he was reviled, didn’t revile back. When he suffered, didn’t threaten, but committed himself to him who judges righteously” (1 Peter 2:21-23).
Christ’s suffering provides both example and enablement for unjust treatment. He bore our sins to heal us and bring us to God, showing how innocent suffering can accomplish redemption rather than merely endure oppression.
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