Submission

In the biblical context, submission is often understood as a voluntary act of yielding to the will or authority of another, reflecting a heart attitude of humility and respect. The concept of submission is woven throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of order, harmony, and obedience within various relationships and structures established by God.

1. Submission to God: The ultimate form of submission is to God Himself. James 4:7 instructs believers, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This submission involves acknowledging God's sovereignty, obeying His commandments, and aligning one's life with His will.

2. Submission in the Family: The family unit is a primary context where submission is discussed. Ephesians 5:22-24 states, "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything." This passage highlights the model of Christ and the church as a pattern for marital relationships, emphasizing mutual respect and love.

3. Submission in the Church: Within the church, submission is essential for maintaining unity and order. Hebrews 13:17 exhorts believers, "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account. To this end, allow them to lead with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you." This submission to church leaders is seen as a way to honor God's established order within the body of Christ.

4. Submission to Governing Authorities: Romans 13:1-2 teaches, "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage underscores the belief that civil authorities are instituted by God, and submission to them is part of a Christian's duty unless such submission directly contradicts God's commands.

Authority

Authority in the Bible is understood as the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. It is a divinely instituted concept, meant to bring about order and justice in various spheres of life.

1. Divine Authority: God's authority is supreme and absolute. Psalm 103:19 declares, "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all." God's authority is exercised through His sovereign will, His Word, and His works in creation and redemption.

2. Christ's Authority: Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, possesses divine authority. Matthew 28:18 records Jesus saying, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me." Christ's authority is evident in His teachings, miracles, and His ultimate victory over sin and death through His resurrection.

3. Authority in the Church: Church leaders are given authority to shepherd and guide the congregation. This authority is not to be wielded as a means of control but as a service to the body of Christ. 1 Peter 5:2-3 advises, "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them—not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."

4. Parental Authority: Parents are given authority over their children to nurture and instruct them in the ways of the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4 instructs, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother' (which is the first commandment with a promise), 'that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.' Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."

In summary, submission and authority are integral to the biblical worldview, reflecting God's design for order and harmony in human relationships and institutions. These principles are meant to be exercised with love, humility, and a desire to honor God above all.