Peter's teachings on good citizenship

THE TEACHINGS OF PETER ON GOOD CITIZENSHIP
In Peter’s teaching on good citizenship, he told the people to make themselves subject to every human authority.

It does not matter whether it is the emperor himself or the Governors sent by him to reward the just and punish the wicked because it is the will of God. When they do this, according to Peter, they will silence the ignorance of fools.

Peter advised them to live as people who are free but also they should not use their freedom as a pretext to foment evil.

Peter told them to live as servants of God.

They must honour everybody, love the brotherhood. They must fear God and honour the emperor.

WAYS IN WHICH CHRISTIANS CAN ACT AS GOOD CITIZENS

1. Pay their taxes regularly.

2. By exercising their voting rights.

3. By being law-abiding.

4. Maintaining a good environment.

5. By contributing to a voluntary organization.

6. Caring for public property.

7. By being loyal to the country.

QUALITIES OF A GOOD CITIZEN

1. Love his nation and its legitimate institutions.

2. Obey all laws of the country.

3. Fight to defend the territorial integrity of his country, if options like dialogue fail.

4. Help in the maintenance of law and order.

5. Must have respect for others and live in peace with them.

6. Must not get involved in attempts to overthrow his government.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS

1. a. Outline Peter’s instruction on good citizenship.

    b. In what three ways can Christians act as good citizens today?

2. a. Examine Peter’s teaching on good citizenship.

    b. Identify five obligations of a good citizen.

3. a. Explain Peter’s concept of a good citizen.

    b. Identify any three qualities of a good citizen.

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