When Peter was writing his letter, there was a significant debate within Judaism about the best way to relate to Rome. Many in Israel were clamoring for a rebellion, which would ultimately result in the Jewish revolt and destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. Should followers of Jesus take a similar stance toward Rome?

Peter takes a very different approach. He urges believers to “Submit yourselves…to every human authority” (v. 13). The phrase translated by the NIV as “every human authority” is more literally “every human creation.” Peter’s point is that believers should not be striving for positions of power and authority over other people. Rather they should pursue the good of others (Eph. 5:21). This includes even the emperor and governor (vv. 13–14). At the time, the emperor was likely Nero, hardly a model of virtue.

But there is an important qualification: They are to submit “for the Lord’s sake” (v. 13). In the New Testament, believers did take a stand against the governing authorities when the gospel was at stake (e.g., Acts 4:18–20; 5:27–29). They would not be hindered in sharing the gospel, even if it meant suffering the consequences of disobeying the government. But when the gospel was not at stake, believers were to submit to those in authority. God ordained the government to uphold justice (v. 14), a common grace we can be thankful for.

The freedom we have in Christ is not freedom from human authorities, but freedom from sin in service to God (v. 16). Believers should be known for their respect and kindness to all people (v. 17). In our relationship with the government, it is important to “fear God” first and, in the context of our reverence for God, “honor the emperor” (v. 17). We should live in a way that does not hinder our ability to live out the mission that the Lord Jesus has given us.

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