You're probably familiar with the phrase, "Dress for success." Well, in 1 Peter 2:1-3, we are going to learn Peter's definition of what the successful Christian wears. But first, he's going to tell us what is inappropriate attire for the believer. That's why I've entitled this episode, "Dress Like It." As children of God, we should appear as what we are. That means there are certain characteristics that are not acceptable and should be avoided at all costs. In essence, it's like saying, "I wouldn't get caught dead wearing something like that!" Just as there are certain kinds of clothing that are age-inappropriate or improper for certain situations, there are certain outward character qualities that are not faith-appropriate. They no longer go with who we are in Christ. You don't wear heavy sweaters or a wool coat in summer. You don't put on sandals to shovel snow in the middle of winter. And you don't put on things like malice, deceit, slander and envy if you call yourself a Christ-follower. It is one thing to call yourself a Christ. It is another to live like one. And as Peter will emphasize throughout this letter, our behavior should be a true reflection of our beliefs. What we say we believe should show up in the way we act, think, speak, and live out our faith in this world.
