Topical Encyclopedia The concept of submission in the life and teachings of the Apostle Paul is a significant theme throughout the New Testament. Paul's understanding of submission is deeply rooted in his theology and his personal experiences as a follower of Jesus Christ. His writings provide a comprehensive view of how submission is to be understood and practiced within the Christian life.Submission to God Paul's own life is a testament to his submission to God. After his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-19), Paul fully surrendered his life to the service of Christ. In Galatians 2:20, he writes, "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." This verse encapsulates Paul's understanding of submission as a total surrender to the will and purposes of God. Submission to Authority Paul also addresses the concept of submission to earthly authorities. In Romans 13:1-2, he 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." Paul emphasizes that submission to governmental authorities is an extension of submission to God, as these authorities are instituted by Him. Submission in the Church Within the church, Paul advocates for mutual submission among believers. In Ephesians 5:21, he writes, "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This mutual submission is a reflection of the unity and love that should characterize the body of Christ. Paul further elaborates on specific relationships within the church and family, such as the relationship between husbands and wives, where he instructs wives to submit to their husbands as to the Lord (Ephesians 5:22), while also commanding husbands to love their wives sacrificially (Ephesians 5:25). Submission in Suffering Paul's own experiences of suffering for the sake of the Gospel illustrate his submission to God's will, even in adversity. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, he recounts how he pleaded with the Lord to remove a "thorn in the flesh," but the Lord responded, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." Paul concludes, "Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me." His acceptance of suffering as part of God's plan demonstrates his deep submission to God's sovereignty. Submission to the Gospel Paul's submission to the Gospel is evident in his tireless missionary work and his commitment to preaching Christ crucified. In 1 Corinthians 9:19-23, he explains his approach to ministry: "Though I am free of obligation to anyone, I make myself a servant to everyone, to win as many as possible." His willingness to become "all things to all people" for the sake of the Gospel underscores his submission to the mission entrusted to him by Christ. Paul's teachings and life exemplify a profound submission to God, authority, and the Gospel. His writings continue to guide Christians in understanding the importance of submission as a fundamental aspect of their faith and practice. Nave's Topical Index 1 Corinthians 16:7For I will not see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit. Nave's Topical Index Library The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians Paul in Rome Songs of the Cross Childlike Submission. Formalities of Prayer: Conclusion Heretics are Self-Condemned Heresy is Self-Will, Whilst Faith is ... Epistle of Paul to the Philippians. Letter xix. Submission to the Will of God; Dependence Upon Him for ... Submission and Peace On the Feast of St Paul the Apostle The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Ephesians Resources What does it mean to kiss the son (Psalm 2:12)? | GotQuestions.orgWho is Michael the archangel? | GotQuestions.org Is feminist theology biblical? | GotQuestions.org Submission: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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