The concept of reverence and submission is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting the relationship between humanity and the divine, as well as interpersonal relationships within the Christian community. Reverence, often synonymous with fear of the Lord, is a profound respect and awe for God's majesty and holiness. Submission, on the other hand, involves yielding to God's authority and the structures He has ordained.

Reverence for God

Reverence for God is foundational to the Christian faith. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This fear is not a paralyzing terror but a deep respect and acknowledgment of God's power and righteousness. It is the recognition of God's sovereignty and the believer's position before Him. Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts believers, "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. For our God is a consuming fire."

Submission to God's Will

Submission to God is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. It involves aligning one's will with God's purposes and commands. James 4:7 instructs, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This submission is an act of trust and obedience, acknowledging God's wisdom and goodness. Jesus Christ exemplified perfect submission in His prayer at Gethsemane, "Not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42).

Submission in Human Relationships

The New Testament extends the principle of submission to human relationships, emphasizing order and harmony within the Christian community. Ephesians 5:21-22 instructs, "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord." This submission is not about inferiority but about mutual respect and love, reflecting Christ's relationship with the Church. Similarly, Hebrews 13:17 encourages believers to "obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account."

Reverence in Worship

Reverence is also a key aspect of worship. Worship is not merely a ritual but an expression of the heart's posture before God. Psalm 95:6-7 invites believers, "Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, the sheep under His care." True worship involves humility and recognition of God's greatness.

The Role of Reverence and Submission in Sanctification

Reverence and submission play a crucial role in the believer's sanctification process. As believers grow in their faith, they are called to increasingly submit to God's transforming work in their lives. Romans 12:1-2 urges, "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."

In summary, the call to reverence and submission is integral to the Christian life, shaping the believer's relationship with God and others. It is a call to recognize God's authority, to worship Him with awe, and to live in harmony with His will and His people.