July 02 2023

Frankie / General

1 Peter 2 / Christian Life / 1 Peter 2:18–25

1 Peter 2:18-25

1. Christianity is centered on the Bible because it is the Word of God and contains God's message for us. We believe that it is through the Bible that we can experience the love of God and His guidance for us. However, many people find it challenging to understand the Bible due to the fact that it was originally written in Hebrew and Greek. Due to the differences in perspective and background between the original writers of the Bible and contemporary readers, it becomes crucial for us to familiarize ourselves with the historical context and background in order to attain a deeper understanding of its message.

When approaching a passage from today's reading up to chapter 3, it is important to consider the background and historical context because it contains historical and cultural factors which differ from our history and culture. Without this understanding, we may fail to grasp its true meaning and run the risk of misinterpretation. Now, let us read 1 Peter 2:18-20.

1 Peter 2:18–20 NKJV

Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God.

2. To begin with, it is essential that we establish a shared perspective for this sermon: recognizing the Bible as the sacred book of Christianity while also appreciating its literary significance. Therefore, the Bible can be approached and understood through various methodologies, such as Systematic Theology, Biblical Theology, and Practical Theology, among others. Today, I would like to focus on the methodology of Biblical Theology, specifically by delving into the meaning of two Greek terms within a particular verse. There are two words for the word “slave or servant” in the Greek Bible but English Bibles use a word, servant or slave.

Today's passage is somewhat ambiguous in its meaning. When Peter referred to submitting to their master, he was not referring to Master Jesus, but rather to their earthly master. In order to comprehend this section, it is important to consider its historical context. During the first century in the Greco-Roman world, approximately one-third of the population belonged to the slave class, making it a significant industry of that era. Consequently, it is unsurprising that the initial followers of Christianity largely comprised individuals from the slave community.

3. In Greek, there were two terms used to refer to slaves. The first is "doulos," which denotes a bondservant, and the second is "oiketes," meaning a household slave. While there are differing interpretations of these terms, it is generally agreed upon that "doulos" referred to slaves under a larger institution or nation, whereas "oiketes" denoted slaves who served individual households.

Doulos (δοῦλος) : a bondservant, mostly made by birth ( Romans 1:1, James 1:1, 2 Peter 1:1, Jude 1)

Oiketes ( οἰκέτης) : a domestic slave, household slave, usually by an individual’s decision (Luke 16:13, Romans 14:4, Acts 10:7)

Consequently, "oiketes" often enjoyed more freedom compared to "doulos" during that time. In many cases, individuals became slaves due to their inability to repay debts. However, in the case of "oiketes," some people willingly entered into servitude because it offered the prospect of a better life after completing their duties.

4. When Paul referred to his identity in his letter, he used the term "doulos." However, in this particular verse, Peter used the term "oiketes." In my understanding, Paul aimed to emphasize that a Christian's allegiance is not to a specific earthly organization or individual, but to the kingdom of God, just as a "doulos" is not tied to an individual but to the Roman Empire.

Romans 1:1–2 (NKJV)

Paul, a bondservant (Doulos) of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures,

On the other hand, when Peter used the term "oiketes," it appears he wanted to emphasize the individual's faith and the freedom to follow Jesus Christ, as an "oiketes" enjoyed more personal autonomy than a "doulos." This suggests that Peter focused on the individual's relationship with Christ and the freedom to live out their faith.

Acts 10:7 (NKJV)

And when the angel who spoke to him had departed, Cornelius called two of his household servants (Oiketes) and a devout soldier from among those who waited on him continually.

5. When Peter used the term "oiketes," it is likely that he intended to convey the idea that if one becomes a household servant in their master's house, they should obediently follow their master's commands just as they follow Jesus Christ. This would serve as a means to demonstrate the love of Jesus to their master, even if persecution were to arise, as their lives would bear the fragrance of Jesus, impacting their earthly master through their actions.

Hence, the term "oiketes" reveals that during that era, individuals had the option to work as hired servants for specific individuals, enabling them to earn money and make a conscious decision to adopt their master's faith, similar to Cornelius’ “oiketes.” This interpretation aligns with Jesus' statement in Luke 16:13, where he explains that a servant cannot serve two masters, emphasizing that an "oiketes" who was employed by a master could not simultaneously serve two masters at that time.

Luke 16:13 (NKJV)

“No servant (oiketes) can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

6. Now, we can proceed with an interpretation of the verses in today's context. As Christians, it is imperative for us to align our lives with the teachings of the Lord. We have been called by God through the sacrificial death and resurrection of His Son. In this calling, we have become "doulos," as Paul mentioned, signifying that we belong to the Kingdom of God not by our own will, but by God's work and sovereign decision and through rebirth in Jesus Christ.

Also, as Peter highlights, we are "oiketes," which implies that we have the ability to choose to follow Jesus Christ. God has called us as His treasured possession and royal priesthood. Once we have become his own possession, we can make the decision to follow Jesus, and it is crucial that we wholeheartedly and sincerely pursue Him.

The term "oiketes," despite meaning a slave, serves as a reflection of our present circumstances. In the context of being employed by a company, we can draw parallels to the role of an "oiketes" in first-century Greece. Just as an "oiketes" was expected to abide by the commands of their master, as employees, we are obligated to adhere to our company's policies. If we choose not to comply, we may need to consider resigning or risk being terminated.

For me, when our church hired me, our church gave me the job description which I should consider and follow. If I don’t want to follow it, I cannot be hired and I need to find another church. As Christians, our desire is to live as exemplary followers of Christ, radiating His fragrance within our workplace according to the job description which God has given us. It is the Bible and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. When we live our lives following God’s job description, by doing so, we hope to enable others to experience and come to know Jesus Christ.

7. However, some Christian believes that they can easily spread the gospel if they become a boss at a comanpy which they work. They think that if they are still hired worker, because they should follow the company's policy, if so, they might miss a Sunday service if they need to work on Sunday. Then, they could not glorify God’s name because they miss a Sunday service. It is a common way of thinking. But Peter does not talk about this matter. Peter does not talk about that you, oiketes, should quit your job if you want to serve the Lord and you should become a master to hire other oiketes to make them God's servant. Instead, Peter exhorts that if you, oiketes, are a follower of Jesus, you should submit yourself to your master to make him see Jesus Christ through your work at his place.

1 Peter 2:18–20 NLT

You who are slaves must submit to your masters with all respect. Do what they tell you—not only if they are kind and reasonable, but even if they are cruel. For God is pleased when, conscious of his will, you patiently endure unjust treatment. Of course, you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you.

1 Peter 2:21–23 (NLT)

For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.

1 Peter 2:24–25 (NLT)

He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed. Once you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls.

8. When faced with struggles or hardships, it is common for us to pray to God, hoping for a change in our circumstances. However, it is important to recognize that God's way is not always to alter the situation itself. A prime example is seen when Joseph was in Egypt. He met a great trial so he was in prison for a while. Even though God did not change his circumstance, he did not lose his heart and mind as God’s chosen people in Egypt.

Similarly, Peter, in addressing the "oiketes" within his church, does not encourage them to pray for a change in their masters or circumstances for the sake of God's kingdom. Instead, he exhorts them to wholeheartedly submit their lives to their masters, even in the midst of suffering, even if they cannot consistently attend church services. Peter highlights that just as Jesus endured suffering on the Cross, it is fitting for us to endure hardships as well. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus.

9. Historically, it took approximately 300 years for Christianity to be recognized as the state religion in Rome. During this period, Christians did not strive to establish their own worldly nation or create a separate kingdom of God. They understood that the ultimate establishment of the kingdom of God would occur with the second coming of Jesus Christ, not through their own efforts. Instead, they focused on living as dedicated Christians and followers of Jesus Christ within the existing societal structures, including their relationships with their masters.

Christians sought to demonstrate the transformative power of worship in their daily lives, even amidst suffering and persecution. Rather than requesting their masters to provide designated free time for Sunday services, they gathered together whenever they had the opportunity. Historical evidence suggests that these gatherings typically took place early Sunday morning around 6 am, before work, and at 7 pm after work. Importantly, they never neglected their work responsibilities. In fact, they worked even harder than other "non Christian oiketes" because they believed that their diligent labor served as a means to spread the fragrance of Jesus to those around them.

10. If Christianity were merely a cultural phenomenon, I would not have made the decision to relocate to Canada to be a pastor and preach in English. Even after more than 8 years, preaching in English remains challenging for me. If Christianity were merely a cultural expression, I would not have pursued a pastoral calling, nor would I have chosen to reside in small towns like Pelly and Yorkton. However, my presence here is solely because of Jesus Christ. Jesus and Christianity is not a cultural theme for me. Rather, Jesus holds utmost significance in my life, and it is my unwavering commitment to Him that has led me to where I am today.

11. Why did we choose to embrace Christianity? Why did we decide to become "oiketes" of Jesus? Was it merely due to our family traditions or cultural upbringing, or was it truly because of our deep love for Jesus? If our decision was genuinely motivated by our love for Jesus, are we prepared to endure persecution and face hardships for the sake of our faith? Are we ready to wholeheartedly serve as sincere "oiketes" in order to spread the fragrance of Jesus?

Let us not settle for being cultural Christians. Jesus did not intend to establish a cultural phenomenon in the world. In contemporary times, many perceive Christianity as merely a religion or cultural identity. However, for me, Christianity is not merely a religion or culture. It is centered around Jesus Christ and the new life that comes through Him. It transcends traditions and worldly trends; it encompasses everything.

Therefore, let us strive to be exemplary "oiketes" for the advancement of God's kingdom. Let us wholeheartedly serve as devoted servants of God, dedicated to living out our faith in Jesus Christ.