Introduction

The concept of submission in the Christian faith is multifaceted, encompassing submission to God, to authorities, and within interpersonal relationships. This submission is not merely a passive acceptance but an active, willing alignment with God's will and His established order. The impact of submission on evangelism is profound, as it reflects the transformative power of the Gospel and serves as a testimony to the world.

Submission to God

Submission to God is foundational for effective evangelism. James 4:7 exhorts believers, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This submission involves acknowledging God's sovereignty and aligning one's life with His purposes. When believers submit to God, they become vessels through which His message of salvation is communicated. Their lives, marked by obedience and humility, become a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Submission to Authorities

The New Testament instructs believers to submit to governing authorities as an expression of their submission to God. Romans 13:1 states, "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God." This submission is not blind allegiance but a recognition of God's providential order. By respecting and honoring authorities, Christians demonstrate the peace and order that the Gospel brings, which can open doors for evangelistic opportunities.

Submission in Relationships

Submission within relationships, particularly in the context of marriage and the church, also impacts evangelism. Ephesians 5:21 instructs believers to "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This mutual submission reflects the love and unity that characterize the body of Christ. In marriage, the submission of wives to husbands and the sacrificial love of husbands for their wives (Ephesians 5:22-25) serve as a living illustration of Christ's relationship with the Church. Such relationships can attract non-believers to the faith, as they witness the Gospel's power to transform and sustain loving, harmonious relationships.

Submission and the Example of Christ

The ultimate example of submission is found in Jesus Christ, whose obedience to the Father led to the salvation of humanity. Philippians 2:8 describes Christ's submission: "And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." Christ's submission is central to the Gospel message, and His followers are called to emulate His example. As believers submit to God's will, they embody the message of the cross, drawing others to the hope and redemption found in Christ.

Submission and the Fruit of the Spirit

Submission is closely linked to the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These qualities, cultivated through a life of submission, enhance the believer's witness. A life marked by the fruit of the Spirit is attractive to those seeking truth and meaning, providing a compelling testimony to the power of the Gospel.

Conclusion

The impact of submission on evangelism is significant, as it reflects the transformative power of the Gospel and serves as a testimony to the world. Through submission to God, authorities, and one another, believers demonstrate the peace, order, and love that the Gospel brings, opening doors for evangelistic opportunities. Ultimately, submission is a reflection of Christ's example, drawing others to the hope and redemption found in Him.