Submitting to authority doesn't always seem quite as straight-forward as it should be. Sometimes leaders (government and others) make mistakes, or are unfair. Peter, though he knew the shortcomings of those in authority, still urges us to submit and respect our earthly authorities**. We have freedom in Christ and we live with knowledge that earthly authorities are only in place because of God's permission.
Betsey Stockton, was born around 1798 and was given to the Green family as a slave when she was still a child. Her master, a reverend by the name of Ashbel Green, became the dominant authority in her life for over twenty years. Betsey (literally) lived under an earthly authority with no freedom for all of her formative years and when freedom was granted to her, she lived fully for Christ, as a missionary and teacher.
We'll be learning more about Betsey at ResKids this week!
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**Note: This doesn't mean we ignore issues of justice or unlawfulness and there are other passages in the Bible that address those situations.
ResKids lesson for April 18:
Bible Memory Verse:
Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 1 Peter 2:10, NiRV
Bible Passages:
For more on Betsey Stockton
1. Betsey Stockton, Princeton & Slavery
2. Do Great Things for God: Betsey Stockton, by Laura Caputo-Wickham
Other Fun Books and Videos for kids:
There are so many amazing people who suffered hardship and challenges and yet, loved and served the Lord with their lives. Here are a few extra picture books and videos that you can read or watch with your children at your leisure.
1. Book Reading of Do Great Things for God: Corrie ten Boom
2. Hero Tales by Dave Jackson
3. For Older Kids: The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Plot to Kill Hitler (Graphic Novel)
Don't forget to check out my previous post about Project: My Lighthouse!!