WAEC Christian Religious Studies (CRS) 2015 Theory — Question 18

Model answer

Peter advised Christians to put away all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy and slander. He also said Christians should long for the pure spiritual milk (the word of God) so that they may grow up unto salvation. Peter referred to Christians as a chosen race, a royal priesthood and a holy nation. He further said that they are people of God who have been called out of darkness into His marvellous light. According to Peter, Christians were formerly not a people, but now they are God's people; they had not received mercy before, but now they have received mercy. Peter urged the Christians that, as sojourners and exiles, they should abstain from the passions that wage war against the soul. Examples include drunkenness and idolatry. Peter urged Christians to do good deeds among the gentiles so that they may see their good deeds and give glory to God. They should also maintain good conduct. In his letter, Peter advised Christians to be loyal to their masters, whether they are gentle or oppressive. They should also be subject to every human institution, and Christians should live as free servants of God and should honour everyone, love one another, fear God and honour the emperor. Peter said that a servant is approved of his calling if he endures pain while suffering unjustly. According to Peter, it is unacceptable if a servant is beaten for his wrong deed and he retaliates - however, when one does evil and suffers for it patiently, one wins God's approval. Peter finally said that Jesus is a good example of the suffering servant who should be emulated.