Authority and Submission in Scripture

The concepts of authority and submission are deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting the order and structure ordained by God. Authority is the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience, while submission is the act of yielding to the authority or will of another. These principles are evident throughout the Bible, from the creation account to the teachings of the New Testament.

Divine Authority

God is the ultimate authority, as seen in the creation account where He speaks the universe into existence (Genesis 1). His sovereignty is affirmed throughout Scripture, as in Psalm 103:19, "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all." God's authority is absolute, and His commands are to be obeyed by all creation.

Human Authority

God delegates authority to humans, beginning with Adam and Eve, who were given dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:28). This delegation of authority is further developed in the establishment of governments and leaders. Romans 13:1-2 instructs, "Let every soul be subject 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."

Authority in the Family

The family is a primary context for understanding authority and submission. Ephesians 5:22-24 outlines the roles within a Christian marriage: "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 emphasizes the husband's role as a loving leader and the wife's role in willing submission, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the Church.

Authority in the Church

The Church is another sphere where authority and submission are vital. Church leaders are given authority to shepherd the flock, as seen in Hebrews 13:17: "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account. Allow them to do this with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you." This verse highlights the responsibility of leaders to care for their congregation and the duty of the congregation to respect and follow their guidance.

Christ as the Model of Submission

Jesus Christ exemplifies perfect submission to the Father's will. Philippians 2:5-8 describes His humility and obedience: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but 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 submission is the ultimate model for believers, demonstrating that true submission is not about inferiority but about fulfilling God's purpose.

Mutual Submission

While authority and submission are often seen in hierarchical terms, the Bible also teaches mutual submission among believers. Ephesians 5:21 instructs, "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This mutual submission is rooted in love and respect, fostering unity and harmony within the body of Christ.

Conclusion

The biblical principles of authority and submission are designed to reflect God's order and purpose. They are not about domination or oppression but about serving one another in love, following the example of Christ, and living in obedience to God's ordained structure.