Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Peter 2:13-17

"Be subject to every ordinance of man for the Lord`s sake: whether to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as sent by him for vengeance on evil-doers and for praise to them that do well. For so is the will of God, that by well-doing ye should put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: as free, and not using your freedom for a cloak of wickedness, but as bondservants of God. Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king." — 1 Peter 2:13-17 (ASV)

A Christian's conduct must be honest. However, it cannot be honest if there is not a just and careful fulfillment of all relational duties. The apostle addresses these duties distinctly here. Observance of these duties is the will of God and, consequently, the Christian's duty, and the way to silence the vile slanders of ignorant and foolish people. Christians must strive, in all their relationships, to behave rightly, so that they do not make their liberty a cloak or covering for any wickedness, or for the neglect of duty; but they must remember that they are servants of God.