Do you ever find yourself questioning the importance of submission and obedience? Are you unsure of why it is essential for Christians to submit to earthly authorities? If so, then this blog post is for you. In this post, we will look at the teachings of Saint Peter and explore why submission and obedience are so important in Christian life.
Understand the Biblical Mandate
The Bible is clear in its mandate for Christians to submit to earthly authorities and be obedient to God. In Romans 13:1-7, Paul instructs Christians to submit to governing authorities, for they have been established by God. He also exhorts us to be subject to authority for the Lord’s sake, for our own well-being, and to avoid punishment. In 1 Peter 2:13-17, Peter reiterates this, stating that as free people of God, we should honor everyone, regardless of their status or role in society. We should be respectful of those in positions of authority and obey them unless their commands go against what God has commanded. Furthermore, Peter reminds us of the rewards of submission and obedience, and the consequences of disobedience. Being obedient to authorities and honoring them is not only the right thing to do, but it also brings glory to God.
Examine the Examples of Submission
When we take the time to examine the examples of submission and obedience in the Bible, we can gain a better understanding of why Saint Peter is encouraging us to submit to earthly authorities. We can look to individuals such as Abraham, Joseph, and Daniel, all of whom demonstrated their faithfulness by submitting to the will of God, no matter the personal cost.
In Genesis 22, Abraham was willing to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice to God, knowing that it was God’s will. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, yet he still trusted in God and was ultimately elevated to a position of great power in Egypt. Daniel remained faithful to God despite being thrown into a den of lions.
These examples of submission and obedience show us the power of faith in God to overcome any obstacle. They also demonstrate the rewards that come with submission and obedience. When we submit to the will of God, we can trust that he will provide for us and grant us the blessings we seek.
Recognize the Power of Obedience
The power of obedience is a vital part of the Christian life. As we submit to God’s will and to the governing authorities, we are showing a willingness to honor God and obey His commands. We can see this in the example of Paul in Romans 13:2, which states, “Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” This shows us that when we submit to the authorities, we are showing reverence to God and His authority. Peter also instructs us to “Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution” (1 Peter 2:13). This is a reminder that we are to obey the laws of the land, not just because it is required of us, but because it is pleasing to God. Furthermore, Peter reminds us of the importance of showing joy and respect in our obedience by saying, “Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you” (1 Peter 2:15). We should take this reminder to heart and strive to be obedient to God and to the governing authorities, no matter how difficult it may be.
Remember the Consequences of Disobedience
When it comes to understanding the consequences of disobedience, Saint Peter reminds us that rebellion not only brings about our own destruction, but it also makes us liable to God’s wrath. In Romans 13:2, Peter commands us to submit to governing authorities, warning us of the consequences of disobeying God’s commands. He says, “For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God’s servant for your good.”
Ultimately, our obedience should not be based on fear of punishment, but on love and reverence for God. He is our Creator and our Sovereign ruler, and thus we should willingly and joyfully obey His commands. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” We must remember that our obedience should be motivated by our love and devotion to God, and not by fear of punishment.
Follow the Path of Submission and Obedience
Following the path of submission and obedience to God and the authorities He has placed in our lives is essential if we are to honor Him and receive His blessings. We can observe the examples of submission to authority in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, we see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who all submitted to God’s authority and followed His commands. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself submitted to the Father’s will. Likewise, Peter instructed Christians to submit to governing authorities, not because of what those authorities do, but because it is God’s will (Romans 13:1-2). By submitting to authority, we demonstrate our love and respect for God, and we receive His favor.
Obedience is another important aspect of submitting to authority. It is important to recognize that when we obey God’s commands, we are not only honoring Him, but we are also honoring the authorities He has placed in our lives. Peter instructs us to “be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution” (1 Peter 2:13). When we obey those in authority over us, we are recognizing their rightful authority and showing our respect for them. By doing so, we are also showing our reverence for God.
In conclusion, submission and obedience to God and the authorities He has placed in our lives is essential if we are to honor Him and receive His blessings. Through these acts, we demonstrate our love and respect for God, recognize the rightful authority of those in power, and receive His favor. By following the path of submission and obedience, we can experience the rewards and blessings that come with honoring God.
Grasp the Benefits and Blessings of Submission
Submission and obedience to the authorities is not only a biblical mandate, but it also brings many benefits and blessings. We must remember that obedience to God and submission to earthly authorities are both acts of faith and worship that bring us closer to God’s will. When we submit to authority, we are trusting God to work through them and trusting in his wisdom to guide us. We can also find spiritual and emotional benefits in submitting and obeying. When we surrender our will to God, we open ourselves up to the grace and peace of our Lord, which can bring great comfort and joy. In addition, when we obey authority, we are able to rest assured that we are living in line with God’s will and that we will receive his blessings for doing so. Finally, submission and obedience to authority can lead to greater unity and understanding within our families, churches, and communities.
Uncover the Rewards of Obedience
Obedience to God and submission to earthly authorities are essential for a life of faith. When we submit to God and to those who have been appointed over us, we are promised many rewards. Saint Peter reminds us of this truth in 1 Peter 2:14, when he says that “by doing good, you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people”.
The rewards of obedience go beyond silencing fools. When we submit to God, we are promised His blessings. He has promised to provide us with all we need to live a godly life. As Saint Peter also says in 1 Peter 5:10, “the God of all grace, who has called us to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, establish, and strengthen us.”
Obedience and submission also bring us joy. We can experience the joy of knowing that we are following God’s will, and that by submitting to Him, we are honoring Him. This joy is the result of the peace that comes from living a life of obedience and submission.
Moreover, submitting to authority figures and following their instructions can ultimately bring us greater freedom. When we are obedient, we are free to pursue our goals, knowing that we are doing what is right in God’s eyes. This freedom gives us the opportunity to live a life of purpose and meaning.
Finally, obedience and submission can result in a closer relationship with God. When we are obedient and submit to God’s will, we become more aware of His presence and our dependence on Him. In turn, this can lead to a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him.
Know the Reasons for Submitting and Obeying
The reasons for submitting and obeying are clear: We are to honor God in all that we do and submit to the authority of earthly leaders. The Apostle Peter reminds us of this in his writings, encouraging us to obey the governing authorities (Romans 13:2). He also highlights the importance of civil obedience, noting that to refuse such obedience is a decision that must be made after careful consideration (1 Peter 2:18). Furthermore, Peter commands us to “submit to every human institution” (1 Peter 2:13), emphasizing that we should be known as “free servants of God” (1 Peter 2:16). Ultimately, Peter encourages us to “obey your leaders and submit to them” (Hebrews 13:17) for their sake, for our own sake, and for God’s sake. By submitting and obeying, we show our respect and honor for God and demonstrate our commitment to Him.
Be Aware of the Dangers of Disobedience
The Bible is clear that there can be consequences for disobeying authority figures, both in this life and the next. In Romans 13:2, Paul writes that those who do not submit to the governing authorities will be punished. Peter warns us in 1 Peter 2:14 to “not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” He encourages us to stay focused on the Lord and to trust in Him. The Bible also warns us of eternal consequences for disobeying God. In Romans 6:23, it states that “the wages of sin is death.” The consequences of disobeying God’s commands can be dire, and Peter encourages us to submit to earthly authorities, so that we might avoid such consequences.
Discover What Submission and Obedience Brings to Our Lives
Submission and obedience to God can bring many blessings into our lives. The Apostle Peter wrote, “For the Lord’s sake submit to all human authority – whether to the king as supreme, or to governors sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right” (1 Peter 2:13-17). By submitting to authority, we are honoring God and showing respect to those in authority. Furthermore, when we obey God and follow His commands, we will experience the peace that comes with knowing that we are living according to His will. Obedience to God brings with it the promise of eternal life, as well as the knowledge that we are living a life that pleases Him. Submission and obedience to God’s Word can also bring joy and contentment in our lives. While it may be difficult to obey God in certain situations, the rewards that come with submission and obedience will be worth it in the end.