Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian faith, submission to authority is a principle that is deeply rooted in the teachings and life of Jesus Christ. Jesus serves as the ultimate example of submission, demonstrating obedience to both earthly and divine authority throughout His life and ministry.Submission to Earthly Authority Jesus' submission to earthly authority is evident in several instances throughout the Gospels. One notable example is His response to the issue of paying taxes to the Roman government. In Matthew 22:17-21 , when the Pharisees attempted to trap Him with the question of whether it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus replied, "Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s." This statement reflects His acknowledgment of the legitimacy of earthly authority and the importance of fulfilling civic duties. Furthermore, Jesus submitted to the authority of His earthly parents. In Luke 2:51 , after being found in the temple, He returned to Nazareth with Mary and Joseph and "was obedient to them." This act of submission highlights His respect for the family structure and the authority of His parents, despite His divine nature and mission. Submission to Divine Authority Jesus' submission to divine authority is most profoundly illustrated in His relationship with God the Father. Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently emphasized His commitment to doing the will of the Father. In John 6:38 , He declares, "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." This statement underscores His complete obedience and submission to God's plan. The ultimate demonstration of Jesus' submission to divine authority is found in the Garden of Gethsemane. Facing imminent crucifixion, Jesus prayed fervently, expressing His anguish yet yielding to the Father's will. In Matthew 26:39 , He prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will." This moment encapsulates His willingness to submit to God's redemptive plan, even at the cost of His own life. Submission in Suffering Jesus' submission is also evident in His response to suffering and persecution. During His trial and crucifixion, He remained silent and did not resist the unjust treatment He received. In 1 Peter 2:23 , it is written, "When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly." This passage highlights His trust in God's justice and His refusal to retaliate, embodying the principle of submission even in the face of suffering. Implications for Believers Jesus' example of submission to authority serves as a model for believers, encouraging them to respect and obey both earthly and divine authority. His life teaches that submission is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of faith and trust in God's sovereign plan. Through His example, believers are called to live lives of obedience, humility, and trust, following in the footsteps of their Savior. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 26:39,42And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as you will. Nave's Topical Index Mark 14:36 Luke 22:42 Hebrews 5:8 Library Eighth Day. Submission to God's Word. Jesus' Conception of Himself What Jesus Says of the Meaning of his Miracles Jesus at the Bier Development of the Ideas of Jesus Respecting the Kingdom of God. Jesus Sentenced Servants and Lords The Christ of the Sermon on the Mount Youth and Age, and the Command for Both The Third Day in Passion-Week - the Events of that Day - the ... Resources How do I make Jesus Lord of my life? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is heavy shepherding? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about hair length? | GotQuestions.org Submission: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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