'Submission' is often considered a dirty word, however it is a biblical concept and if we don't understand it, we won't be able to apply the important principles God gives us through His word. Admittedly, the word 'submission' has been abused, but Christians must not use this as an excuse to ignore the commands of God.
The Oxford dictionary defines 'submission' as: "the action or fact of accepting or yielding to a superior force, or to the will or authority of another person." This definition highlights the roles in a case of submission; the one who submits and the one who is submitted to. Depending on the situation, these roles may not always be defined and can become confused.
However clear examples of authority include: the government, our boss, church leaders and for a wife, their husband. Submitting to these authorities, can be a challenge at the best of times, however, when we are mistreated, it can become even harder to follow the commands of God towards submission. This can be a touchy subject, but please consider the biblical references to this topic before shooting the messenger.
Note also, there are definite situations of abuse that need to be brought to the light and dealt with appropriately. Applying the principles of honour and respect towards authority is important, but this does not excuse abusive behaviour and must not prevent consequences for behaviour.
Submission to governing authority:
Recently our children were kicked out of school by the government, yep, kicked out. As a family who homeschools we have freedom to educate our children in a way we choose, within the limits of the government education system. This freedom was abruptly removed from us, along with 3500 other students, when the school board we are registered with was removed from accreditation.
Effective the very same day it was announced, the school board was shut down after more than 20 years of providing an alternative education program for families in the province.
The allegations from the education minister and other government officials may have some merit, that's still to be determined; however, the actions taken seem extreme and have sent many families into confusion and panic.
To be honest, I am concerned with how the many professing Christians affected by this ruling will respond; because our faith is on display. I know for myself, it's easy to respond with defiance and frustration when I'm forced into situations I don't agree with and yet God demands the opposite:
"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore, whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment." (Romans chapter 13, verses 1-2)
This passage, among others, demonstrates we are called to submit and honour the politicians over us. While we may not agree with their decisions, God has sovereignly placed our authority over us and as long as we remain under their authority we are told we must submit ourselves to them.
How to respond to authority when we're mistreated
There is no clause or alternative option, in the passage above, to only offer submission when we agree with decisions. If God only requested us to submit when we agree, there would be no need to include this instruction in the Bible. Instead, through trials and mistreatment, we have the opportunity to grow in our personal faith and to glorify God before those watching.
Submission in situations when we are not treated with respect should include: forgiveness for the wrong done to us, letting go of resentment we feel and care with our words, to avoid gossip.
Choosing to honour our governing authorities when speaking about them and to them, should also be met with prayer for these leaders, "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority" 1 Timothy chapter 2, verses 1-2.
Granted, most of us live in a democracy, so we do have certain rights and opportunities to express our opinion, although we must continue to be honouring and respectful during these protests.
Responding to other authorities
Most people won't ever experience being kicked out of school by their government, however we each have responsibilities to obey and submit to authority on a daily basis. We are called to submit to the authority over road rules; tasks we are assigned at work; the ministry direction of our church and more.
The authorities placed over us will be judged for their leadership and the Bible gives some clear instructions for leaders, however; no matter how they lead we are accountable for our actions in response. With the incredible grace of the Lord, I aim to glorify Him by obeying His commands, in my response to authority.
Tim Wilsonis an Australian currently living in Canada with his wife (also a comment writer) and their three children. He is passionate about the Church living according to the Word of God and authors a blog to inspire and challenge men and women of faith. www.abrokenmanblog.com
Tim Wilson's previous articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/tim-wilson.html