Total surrender in the biblical context refers to the complete yielding of one's will, desires, and life to God. This concept is deeply rooted in Scripture and is symbolized through various narratives, teachings, and practices that illustrate the believer's call to fully submit to God's authority and purpose.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of total surrender, often depicted through acts of obedience and sacrifice. One of the most profound illustrations is the account of Abraham, who was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac in obedience to God's command. This act of faith is highlighted in Genesis 22:12, where God acknowledges Abraham's fear of the Lord: "Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him," said the angel, "for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from Me."

The sacrificial system itself, as outlined in Leviticus, symbolizes surrender through the offering of animals, representing the giving up of something valuable to God. The burnt offering, in particular, signifies total dedication, as the entire animal was consumed by fire, leaving nothing behind.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate example of total surrender. Philippians 2:7-8 describes His humility and obedience: "He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." Christ's willingness to submit to the Father's will, even unto death, serves as the model for believers.

The call to total surrender is further emphasized in Jesus' teachings. In Matthew 16:24-25, He instructs His disciples: "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." This passage underscores the necessity of self-denial and the relinquishing of personal ambitions in favor of divine purposes.

Apostolic Exhortations

The apostles continue this theme, urging believers to present themselves wholly to God. Romans 12:1-2 exhorts Christians: "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Here, the metaphor of a living sacrifice conveys the idea of ongoing, active surrender in daily life.

Paul's own life is a testament to total surrender. In Galatians 2:20, he declares, "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." This statement reflects the apostle's complete identification with Christ's death and resurrection, resulting in a life fully devoted to God's will.

Symbolic Acts and Practices

Baptism serves as a powerful symbol of total surrender, representing the believer's identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. Romans 6:4 explains, "We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life." This act signifies the believer's commitment to die to self and live for Christ.

The Lord's Supper, or Communion, also symbolizes surrender. By partaking in the bread and the cup, believers remember Christ's sacrifice and affirm their unity with Him and His body, the Church. This practice reinforces the call to live in submission to Christ's lordship and to one another in love.

Conclusion

The symbolism of total surrender permeates the biblical narrative, calling believers to a life of complete devotion and obedience to God. Through the examples of patriarchs, the teachings of Christ, and the exhortations of the apostles, Scripture presents a compelling vision of what it means to fully yield to the divine will.