'Embracing Biblical Submission: A Christian''s Guide to Faithful Obedience'

Bible and Submission

Submission is a concept that may seem counterintuitive to human nature, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining order and stability in society. The Bible provides guidance on the parameters of submission, emphasizing the importance of recognizing proper authority.

Understanding Submission

The English word "submit" comes from a Latin root meaning "to let down, reduce, or yield." It conveys the idea of kneeling before a superior. Similarly, the New Testament Greek word for submission, "hupotasso," means "to put under or arrange under." This military term refers to lower-ranking soldiers following the orders of their higher officers. Thus, submission involves acknowledging proper order and authority.

God's Authority

All authority ultimately comes from God, the Creator of heaven and earth. Therefore, our first and highest duty is to submit to God. By recognizing and submitting to God's authority, we can better understand and follow the chain of human authority in this world. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of individuals who respected and submitted to those in positions of authority because they understood that all authority ultimately comes from God.

Jesus Himself demonstrated submission to God's authority. He stated that His purpose was to do the will of the Father (John 4:34) and sought to please Him rather than Himself (John 5:30). Jesus' entire life was characterized by submission to the Father, culminating in His prayer before His crucifixion when He said, "Not as I will, but as you will" (Matthew 26:39). As followers of Christ, we are called to submit to His authority just as He submitted to the Father's.

Submission to Human Authorities

The Bible instructs us to submit to human authorities for the sake of the Lord (1 Peter 2:13-14). Since all authority originates from God, we are called to submit to anyone placed in authority over us. By doing so, we are ultimately submitting to God. Conversely, rebelling against those in authority is tantamount to rebelling against God. This understanding is why Christians throughout history have chosen martyrdom rather than taking up arms against the State.

Additionally, wives are called to submit to their husbands as an act of reverence and worship to God (1 Peter 3:1-6). Peter provides the example of Sarah's submission to Abraham, even when it seemed risky (Genesis 20:13). Sarah's submission was honored by God and used to win over a disobedient husband. This teaching highlights the importance of trust in God and the potential impact of submissive behavior in difficult circumstances.

Young men are instructed to submit to their elders (1 Peter 5:5) as a sign of reverence for their age and wisdom. This command aligns with the biblical mandate for children to honor and obey their parents (Deuteronomy 5:16). Recognizing the knowledge and experience of our elders helps establish a structure for a well-functioning society.

Mutual Submission

Christians are called to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21). This mutual submission prevents selfish pride and aligns with the command to consider others better than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). When we trust God to take care of us, we are free to care for others. Our purpose on earth is to do the will of God, and submitting to one another becomes an act of trust in Him.

Submission in Service

Our service as employees also falls under the framework of submission. The Bible instructs us to obey our employers as if we were serving Christ Himself (Ephesians 6:5-8). This mindset enables us to serve wholeheartedly, knowing that the Lord will reward everyone for their good deeds, whether they are slaves or free (Ephesians 6:8). Recognizing God's authority and control over our lives allows us to approach our work with a sense of purpose and dedication.

Submission in Challenging Circumstances

Even when higher authorities violate God's order, we can still submit in a godly manner. When the apostles were arrested for preaching about Jesus, they did not resist. However, when ordered to stop preaching, they responded, "We must obey God rather than men!" (Acts 5:29). They appealed to a higher authority and continued to boldly proclaim Jesus, even in the face of persecution. Sometimes God miraculously delivered them, while other times He allowed them to be martyred. In all cases, they rejoiced because they were counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the name of Christ (Acts 5:41).

Why This Matters

Understanding and practicing submission is crucial for maintaining order in society and living out our faith as Christians. Recognizing that all authority ultimately comes from God helps us navigate earthly authority structures with reverence for Him. Submission allows us to trust in God's sovereignty and care, enabling us to serve others selflessly while fulfilling His purpose for our lives.

Think About It

• How does your understanding of submission align with the biblical concept? Are there areas in your life where you struggle to submit?
• What are some practical ways you can demonstrate submission in your relationships with those in authority over you?
• How can mutual submission within the Christian community impact your relationships and witness to the world?