What does the Bible say about submitting to authority?

The Bible provides a nuanced and comprehensive view on the topic of submitting to authority, and it is a subject that touches both personal and professional aspects of a Christian's life. As we explore this theme, it is essential to consider the broader biblical narrative and the specific teachings that guide a believer's response to authority.

To begin with, the concept of authority is rooted in the very nature of God. God is depicted as the ultimate authority over all creation, and His sovereignty is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. In Romans 13:1-2, the Apostle Paul writes, "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." This passage underscores the belief that all authority is ultimately derived from God, and therefore, submitting to earthly authorities is, in a sense, an act of obedience to God.

However, the Bible's teaching on submission to authority is not a call for blind obedience. Instead, it is a call for discernment and wisdom. For instance, in Acts 5:29, Peter and the other apostles declare, "We must obey God rather than human beings!" This statement highlights a critical principle: when human authority directly contradicts God's commands, a Christian's ultimate allegiance is to God. This principle is echoed in the lives of biblical figures such as Daniel, who continued to pray to God despite the king's decree (Daniel 6), and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who refused to worship the golden image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 3).

In addition to the governmental context, the Bible also addresses submission to authority within various relational and organizational structures. For example, in the context of the family, Ephesians 5:22-24 instructs wives to submit to their husbands as to the Lord, while husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her (Ephesians 5:25). This mutual submission is a reflection of Christ's sacrificial love and the unity of the church. Similarly, children are instructed to obey their parents in the Lord, for this is right (Ephesians 6:1).

In the workplace, the Apostle Paul advises slaves to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity of heart, as they would obey Christ (Ephesians 6:5-8). While the cultural context of slavery is vastly different from modern employment, the underlying principle of working diligently and respectfully under authority remains relevant. Colossians 3:23-24 further emphasizes this by encouraging believers to work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that they will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.

The concept of submission to authority is also evident within the church. Hebrews 13:17 exhorts believers to "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." Church leaders are entrusted with the spiritual well-being of the congregation, and their authority is to be respected and honored.

Yet, it is crucial to recognize that biblical submission is not about passivity or subjugation. Rather, it is about humility, respect, and a willingness to serve others. Jesus Himself modeled this attitude of submission and service. In Philippians 2:5-8, Paul describes how Jesus, though being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage. Instead, He made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, and humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross. Jesus' life and ministry exemplify the ultimate submission to the Father's will and the sacrificial love that should characterize all relationships of authority and submission.

Furthermore, the Bible acknowledges that those in positions of authority have a responsibility to lead justly and righteously. Leaders are called to exercise their authority with integrity, compassion, and a servant's heart. In Matthew 20:25-28, Jesus teaches His disciples that true greatness in His kingdom is not about lording over others, but about serving them. He says, "The rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 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."

In practical terms, submitting to authority involves a posture of respect, cooperation, and a commitment to peace. It means recognizing the legitimate roles and responsibilities of those in authority and supporting them in their efforts to lead effectively. It also means being willing to address conflicts and disagreements in a respectful and constructive manner. Ephesians 4:2-3 encourages believers to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

Moreover, submitting to authority is closely linked to trusting in God's sovereignty and His ultimate plan. Proverbs 21:1 reminds us that "the king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He will." This verse reassures us that God is in control, even when we may not understand or agree with those in authority. Our submission is ultimately an expression of our trust in God's wisdom and His ability to work all things for our good (Romans 8:28).

In summary, the Bible's teaching on submitting to authority is multifaceted and deeply rooted in the character of God and the example of Jesus Christ. It calls for a balance of respect, discernment, and a servant's heart. Whether in the context of government, family, workplace, or church, Christians are encouraged to honor and support those in authority while ultimately seeking to obey God above all. This approach fosters a spirit of unity, peace, and mutual respect, reflecting the love and humility of Christ in all areas of life.