1 Peter 2:11-12 As Christians we are “sojourners and exiles” from this world. Like immigrants, we have our own unique culture and way of doing life. Since the “Gentiles” are watching, we should live honorably and do good deeds so they will glorify God.

Peter covers three categories of submission. All Christians should be subject to the government; slaves, to their masters; and wives, to their husbands.

1 Peter 2:13-17 The apostle commands Christians to be subject to the government. We know from other Scriptures that in certain situations it’s right to disobey the government (Acts 4:5-6, 18-20), but our default should be obedience and honor, even if the leader is sinful.

1 Peter 2:18-25 Slavery was a normal part of the ancient world. Peter’s focus is not on the injustice of slavery, but on the practical question of how Christian slaves should live. Amazingly, he compares suffering abuse from a bad master to the suffering of Christ himself.

1 Peter 3:1-7 Wives are to be subject to their husbands, even if they are not Christians. Rather than focusing on their looks, they should develop their character. Christian husbands must live with their wives in an understanding way and show them honor.