Have you ever wondered how the concept of submission to authority is portrayed in the Bible? In this blog post, we will explore various examples of submission to authority found within the pages of Scripture. From biblical figures like Moses and Esther to teachings from Jesus and the apostles, we will discover the profound benefits that come from submitting to God-ordained authorities. Join us as we delve into these inspiring stories and gain a deeper understanding of the importance and blessings associated with submission in the Bible.
Examples of Submission to Authority in the Bible: A Closer Look at Biblical Instances
Examples of Submission to Authority in the Bible
Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of individuals who demonstrated submission to authority. These examples serve as valuable lessons for believers today, highlighting the importance of honoring and respecting those in positions of authority. Here are a few notable examples:
1. Jesus Christ – The ultimate example of submission to authority is found in the life of Jesus Himself. In Philippians 2:8, it says that Jesus “humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross.” Despite being equal with God, Jesus submitted to the authority of His Father, willingly laying down His life for the salvation of humanity.
2. Joseph – In the Old Testament, Joseph is a prominent figure who exemplifies submission to authority. Sold into slavery by his own brothers, Joseph found himself in a position of servitude under Potiphar, an Egyptian official. Despite facing unjust circumstances, Joseph remained faithful and served Potiphar with integrity and excellence (Genesis 39).
3. David – Before David became king of Israel, he spent years serving under King Saul. Despite being anointed as the future king, David respected Saul’s authority and refused to harm him, even when given the opportunity. In 1 Samuel 24, David spares Saul’s life, saying, “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed” (verse 6).
4. Esther – In the book of Esther, we see Esther’s submission to the authority of her cousin Mordecai and ultimately to King Xerxes. When Mordecai instructed her to keep her Jewish identity a secret, Esther obeyed. Later, when Mordecai urged her to approach the king and intercede for her people, Esther demonstrated great courage and submission by risking her life for the sake of her people’s deliverance.
5. Paul – The apostle Paul consistently emphasized the importance of submitting to authority. In Romans 13:1, he writes, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” Paul himself demonstrated submission by submitting to both civil and church authorities, even in situations where he might have had valid reasons to resist (Acts 23:1-5).
These examples highlight the biblical principle of submission to authority. While this does not mean blind obedience or ignoring instances of injustice, it encourages believers to honor and respect those in positions of authority as long as their directives do not contradict God’s commands. Submitting to authority reflects humility, trust in God’s sovereignty, and a desire to promote harmony and order within society and the Church.
What is biblical submission to authority?
Biblical submission to authority refers to the concept of willingly and respectfully submitting to those in positions of authority, as outlined in the Bible. It is a principle that can be found throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul writes in Romans 13:1-2, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted.” This passage emphasizes that submission to authority is ultimately an act of obedience to God.
Similarly, in Ephesians 5:22-24, Paul instructs wives to submit to their husbands. He writes, “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. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.” Here, submission is seen as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the church.
However, it is important to note that biblical submission does not mean blind obedience or condoning ungodly behavior. Scripture also teaches that authorities should exercise their power in a just and righteous manner. Thus, there may be instances where individuals are called to respectfully challenge or disobey authorities when their commands contradict God’s Word. Acts 5:29 states, “We must obey God rather than human beings.”
In summary, biblical submission to authority involves willingly and respectfully submitting to those in positions of authority, recognizing that their authority is established by God. However, this submission should always be in alignment with God’s commands and principles, and it does not excuse or condone ungodly behavior.
What is an example of submission in the Bible?
One example of submission in the Bible is found in Ephesians 5:22-24, which says, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.” This verse teaches about the submission of wives to their husbands in the context of marriage, emphasizing the parallel between the relationship of Christ and the church and the relationship of a husband and wife. It highlights the importance of submission within the marital union, with wives willingly submitting to their husbands’ leadership and authority.
What Scripture talks about submitting to authority?
One scripture that talks about submitting to authority is Romans 13:1-2. It says, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.”
What is an example of authority in the Bible?
One example of authority in the Bible is found in Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” This passage highlights Jesus’ authority as the Son of God and emphasizes his command to his followers to spread the message of the Gospel to the entire world.
FAQs
What are some examples of submission to authority in the Bible?
Some examples of submission to authority in the Bible include the obedience of Jesus to His earthly parents (Luke 2:51), the submission of the Israelites to the leadership of Moses and Aaron (Exodus 12:50), and the instruction for Christians to submit to governing authorities (Romans 13:1).
How does the Bible teach about submitting to authority figures?
The Bible teaches about submitting to authority figures through passages such as Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter 2:13-17. These verses emphasize the importance of respecting and obeying those in positions of authority, recognizing that they have been appointed by God. Submission to authority is seen as a way to honor God and maintain order in society.
Can you provide instances where individuals displayed submission to authority in the Bible?
Yes, there are several instances in the Bible where individuals displayed submission to authority. One notable example is when Jesus submitted to the authority of his Father, God, even unto death on the cross. Additionally, the Apostle Paul encouraged believers to submit to governmental authorities (Romans 13:1-7) and wives to submit to their husbands (Ephesians 5:22-24).