The concept of submission is a complex and multifaceted theme that appears throughout the Bible, impacting various aspects of life, including relationships, faith, and personal growth. Submission, in a biblical context, is often about yielding to the will of God, respecting authority, and mutually submitting to one another in love and respect. To delve into this topic, it’s essential to explore several key verses and passages that shed light on its significance and application.
One of the foundational principles of submission in the Bible is the submission to God’s will. In Romans 12:1-2, the Apostle Paul writes, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” This passage emphasizes the importance of surrendering one’s life to God, recognizing His mercy and living a life that is pleasing to Him.
In the context of relationships, particularly within the family and the church, submission is discussed as a means of maintaining harmony and order. Ephesians 5:21-33 provides a detailed explanation of mutual submission in marriage, where it says, “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do 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… Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This passage is often misunderstood as merely advocating for the submission of wives to their husbands. However, it begins with a call for mutual submission, emphasizing the mutual respect and love that should characterize all Christian relationships.
Furthermore, the concept of submission is closely tied to humility and serving others. In Matthew 20:26-28, Jesus teaches, “Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” This teaching underscores the paradox of leadership and greatness in the kingdom of God, where true greatness is found in serving and submitting to others.
Another critical aspect of submission is the submission to authority and leadership within the church and society. Hebrews 13:17 instructs, “Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.” This verse highlights the importance of respecting and submitting to spiritual leaders, recognizing their role in guiding and caring for the flock.
In addition to submission in human relationships, the Bible also speaks about submission to God’s law and His Word. Psalm 119:60 declares, “I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments.” This verse reflects the psalmist’s eagerness to submit to God’s commands, recognizing the value and wisdom in following His law.
The call to submission is not limited to specific contexts but is a broader principle of living a life surrendered to God’s will and purposes. James 4:7 says, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” This verse emphasizes the importance of submitting to God as a means of resisting evil and living a victorious Christian life.
To further explore the concept of submission and its practical applications, let’s examine some specific examples and scenarios:
- Scenario 1: A husband and wife are discussing their plans for the future. The wife feels strongly about pursuing a certain career path, while the husband is unsure. How can they apply the principle of mutual submission in this situation?
- Scenario 2: A church member is struggling with the leadership’s decision regarding a ministry direction. How can this individual submit to the authority of the church leaders while also expressing their concerns?
In addressing these scenarios, it’s essential to remember that submission is not about coercion or domination but about respect, love, and a willingness to yield to one another and to God.
FAQ Section
What is the biblical basis for mutual submission in marriage?
+The biblical basis for mutual submission in marriage is found in Ephesians 5:21, which calls for husbands and wives to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. This mutual submission is then fleshed out in the specific roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives, with husbands loving their wives as Christ loves the church and wives respecting their husbands.
How does one submit to God's will?
+Submitting to God's will involves recognizing His sovereignty and goodness, then choosing to align one's life and decisions with His teachings and principles as found in the Bible. It requires a daily surrender, seeking to understand and obey God's Word, and trusting in His wisdom and love.
What is the relationship between submission and humility?
+Submission and humility are closely related. Humility involves recognizing one's limitations and the value of others, which can lead to a willingness to submit to God and to others. Submission, in turn, requires humility, as it involves recognizing the authority and wisdom of God and the value of submitting to His will and to others for the sake of unity and love.
In conclusion, the concept of submission in the Bible is rich and multifaceted, applying to various aspects of Christian living, from personal relationships to the submission to God’s will. It is a call to humility, service, and mutual respect, recognizing the value and wisdom in submitting to God and to one another. As Christians seek to understand and apply this principle, they can find deeper harmony, love, and fulfillment in their relationships and a more profound walk with God.
