Submission to God's order is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, reflecting the belief that God has established a divine order in creation, society, and the church. This submission is seen as an act of obedience, reverence, and trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous passages that emphasize the importance of submission to God's order. In the creation narrative, God establishes order by creating the heavens and the earth, setting boundaries for the seas, and instituting the cycle of day and night (Genesis 1). This order is a reflection of God's character and His desire for harmony and purpose in creation.

In the New Testament, submission is further elaborated upon in the context of relationships and authority. Romans 13:1-2 states, "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 all authority is derived from God, and thus, submission to legitimate authority is an act of submission to God Himself.

Submission in the Family

The family is often viewed as a microcosm of God's order. Ephesians 5:22-24 instructs, "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 is frequently cited in discussions of marital roles, emphasizing a structure where the husband is seen as the leader, mirroring Christ's relationship with the church.

However, this submission is not one-sided. Ephesians 5:25 continues, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her." The husband's role is to lead with love, sacrifice, and service, reflecting Christ's sacrificial love for the church.

Submission in the Church

The church is another sphere where submission to God's order is evident. Hebrews 13:17 advises, "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." Church leaders are seen as shepherds appointed by God to guide and nurture the congregation, and members are encouraged to submit to their leadership as part of their spiritual growth and accountability.

Submission in Personal Life

On a personal level, submission to God's order involves yielding one's own will to God's will. James 4:7 exhorts believers, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This submission is an act of humility and recognition of God's ultimate authority over one's life. It involves trusting in God's plan and relinquishing control, allowing God to direct one's path.

Challenges and Misunderstandings

While submission to God's order is a biblical principle, it is often misunderstood or misapplied. It is not a call for blind obedience or the acceptance of injustice. Rather, it is a call to align oneself with God's righteous and loving order. Submission should always be understood in the context of mutual respect, love, and the pursuit of God's truth and justice.

Conclusion

Submission to God's order is a multifaceted concept that permeates various aspects of life, from personal spirituality to family dynamics and societal structures. It is an expression of faith and trust in God's perfect design and a commitment to living in accordance with His will.