The Power of Submission: A Wonderful Weapon in the Christian Journey

Submission is a Wonderful Weapon: A Biblical Perspective

Submission is a word that has become increasingly unpopular in our culture today. It is often associated with weakness, oppression, and even abuse. However, as Christians, we need to understand that submission is not only a biblical principle but also a powerful weapon that we can use to overcome the challenges of life. In this article, we will explore the meaning of submission from a biblical perspective and discover how it can be a wonderful weapon in our spiritual arsenal.

What is Submission?

The word submission comes from the Greek word hupotasso, which means to willingly place oneself under the authority of another. In the Bible, submission is a recurring theme that is reflected in various relationships such as marriage, parenting, and church leadership.

For instance, in Ephesians 5:22-24, the Apostle Paul instructs wives to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord. He goes on to explain that just as Christ is the head of the church, so the husband is the head of the wife. In this context, submission is not about inferiority or subjugation, but rather about respecting the God-given authority structure in marriage.

Similarly, in Hebrews 13:17, the writer instructs believers to submit to their church leaders and to obey them, as they watch over their souls. In this context, submission is not about blind obedience to human authority, but rather about recognizing the God-given responsibility of church leaders to care for His flock.

Why is Submission Important?

Submission is important for several reasons. Firstly, it is a mark of humility and obedience to God. In James 4:6, we are told that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. When we submit to God and to those in authority over us, we demonstrate our humility and obedience to Him.

Secondly, submission is a powerful weapon against the enemy. In Ephesians 6:12, we are reminded that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. When we willingly place ourselves under God’s authority and submit to those He has placed over us, we are aligning ourselves with His plan and purpose, and we are putting ourselves in a position of strength against the enemy.

Thirdly, submission is a mark of love and respect for others. In Philippians 2:3, we are instructed to consider others better than ourselves and to look out for their interests. When we submit to others, we are putting their needs and interests before our own and demonstrating our love and respect for them.

How Can Submission be a Wonderful Weapon?

Submission can be a wonderful weapon in our spiritual arsenal in several ways:

1. Submission Brings Freedom

It may seem counterintuitive, but submission actually brings freedom. When we willingly place ourselves under God’s authority and submit to those He has placed over us, we are freed from the burden of trying to control our lives and circumstances. We are liberated to trust in God’s sovereignty and to rest in His loving care. As Jesus said in Matthew 11:29-30, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

2. Submission Brings Blessing

When we submit to God and to those in authority over us, we position ourselves to receive His blessing. In Psalm 133:1-3, the psalmist writes, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.” When we submit to those in authority over us, we contribute to the unity and harmony of our relationships, and we open ourselves up to receive God’s blessing in all areas of our lives.

3. Submission Brings Strength

As mentioned earlier, submission is a powerful weapon against the enemy. When we submit to God and to those He has placed over us, we align ourselves with His plan and purpose, and we put ourselves in a position of strength against the schemes of the devil. In 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, Paul writes, “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” When we submit to God and to those He has placed over us, we are wielding a powerful weapon that has the divine power to demolish strongholds and overcome every obstacle in our path.

4. Submission Brings Honor to God

Ultimately, submission brings honor to God. When we submit to God and to those in authority over us, we are acknowledging His sovereignty and His wisdom. We are demonstrating our trust in His plan and our willingness to obey His commands. In 1 Peter 2:13-15, Peter writes, “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.” When we submit to those in authority over us, we are doing good and silencing the ignorant talk of foolish people, and we are bringing honor and glory to God.

Conclusion

Submission is a wonderful weapon that we can use to overcome the challenges of life. It is not about weakness or oppression but about humility, obedience, and love. When we willingly place ourselves under God’s authority and submit to those He has placed over us, we position ourselves to receive His freedom, blessing, and strength. Ultimately, submission brings honor and glory to God. As we submit to Him and to those in authority over us, let us remember the words of James 4:7, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”