Embracing the Life of Submission
In a world that often resists authority and values independence above all, the concept of submission can be difficult to embrace. Yet, as Christians, we are called to live lives that reflect the teachings of Jesus—even when it goes against our natural inclinations. In 1 Peter 2:11-17, the apostle Peter urges believers to submit to every human authority, whether it’s the emperor or local governors. This call to submission isn’t easy, especially when those in power are unjust or oppressive. However, Peter’s message goes deeper than mere obedience; it’s about living a life that honours God in all circumstances.
The heart of Christian submission lies in trusting God’s sovereignty. When we submit to earthly authorities, we do so “for the Lord’s sake” (1 Peter 2:13). This means that our ultimate allegiance is to God, and our submission is an act of worship. It’s a visible testimony of our faith, silencing the accusations of critics and demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel.
However, submission doesn’t mean blind obedience. The Bible gives us examples of believers who resisted when human commands conflicted with God’s laws. But until that line is crossed, we are called to be model citizens—honouring all people, loving fellow believers, fearing God, and respecting those in authority. In a divided world, such a life stands out, shining the light of Christ in even the darkest places.