Chapter 3: Submission and Obedience

3.1 The Call to Submission

1 Peter 5:5: "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble."

In exploring the metaphor of the Church as the body of Christ, the theme of submission and obedience emerges as a crucial aspect of the believer's relationship with Christ as the head. The New Testament, particularly the writings of the Apostle Paul, provides profound insights into the call for submission and obedience within the body of Christ.

The Apostle Peter, in his first epistle, addresses the importance of mutual submission among believers and the overarching call to humility.

1 Peter 5:5 (KJV): "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble."

This verse underscores the call for believers, both younger and elder, to submit to one another. The overarching theme is one of humility, recognizing that a humble posture is essential within the body of Christ. Submission within the Church is not about asserting authority but rather about cultivating an environment of mutual respect and honor.

Philippians 2:3-4 (KJV): "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul echoes the call to humility and mutual submission. Believers are encouraged to prioritize the interests and well-being of others, fostering an atmosphere of selflessness and unity within the body of Christ.

3.2 Obedience to Christ's Commands

The call to submission is intrinsically linked to obedience to Christ's commands. Jesus Himself emphasizes the connection between love and obedience in the Gospel of John.

John 14:15 (KJV): "If ye love me, keep my commandments."

This straightforward statement reinforces the idea that love for Christ is expressed through obedience to His commands. In the context of the Church as the body of Christ, this obedience is not a burdensome requirement but a natural outpouring of love and allegiance to the head of the body.

John 15:14 (KJV): "Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you."

Jesus further deepens the understanding of the disciple's relationship with Him. Obedience is the mark of friendship with Christ. Within the body of believers, this friendship and obedience contribute to the overall harmony and effectiveness of the Church.

As we navigate the intricate dynamics of submission and obedience within the body of Christ, we recognize that these principles are not merely organizational but deeply spiritual. They reflect the relational nature of the Church and its intimate connection with Christ as the head. In the following chapters, we will explore how these principles shape the Church's mission, its witness in the world, and its collective pursuit of the divine purpose.

3.1 The Call to Submission

In the intricate tapestry of the Church as the body of Christ, the theme of submission emerges as a foundational principle, promoting unity, humility, and mutual respect among believers. The New Testament, particularly the writings of the Apostle Peter and Paul, offers profound insights into the call for submission within the body of Christ.

The Apostle Peter, in his first epistle, articulates a comprehensive call to submission. He addresses both the younger members of the community, urging them to submit to their elders, and issues a broader call for mutual submission among all believers. This submission is not merely an external act but a posture of humility, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a spirit of humility within the body of Christ.

Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, reinforces the call to submission by emphasizing a mindset of humility. Believers are encouraged to avoid selfish ambitions and pride, instead esteeming others as more significant than themselves. This perspective fosters a culture of mutual submission, where each member of the body prioritizes the well-being and interests of others.

These passages collectively highlight the biblical call to submission within the Church, fostering an environment where humility and mutual respect flourish. The call is not one-sided, directed solely at specific groups within the body, but extends universally to all believers. Submission within the body of Christ is a tangible expression of love, humility, and a recognition of the diverse roles and gifts within the community.

As we delve deeper into the principles of submission, we recognize its pivotal role in shaping the dynamics of the Church and contributing to the health and vitality of the body of Christ. In subsequent chapters, we will explore how this call to submission intersects with the obedience to Christ's commands and its implications for the Church's collective mission and witness.

In the intricate fabric of the Church as the body of Christ, the principle of obedience to Christ's commands emerges as a vital thread, weaving together the believers' response to their divine Head. The New Testament, particularly the words of Jesus Himself, emphasizes the profound connection between love, obedience, and the flourishing of the body of Christ.

John 14:15 (KJV): "If ye love me, keep my commandments."

In this succinct statement, Jesus establishes a direct link between love for Him and obedience to His commands. The foundation of obedience within the body of Christ is rooted in genuine love for the Head. Obedience becomes a natural outflow of love and allegiance to Christ.

John 15:14 (KJV): "Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you."

Jesus deepens the understanding of the believer's relationship with Him by introducing the concept of friendship. Obedience, in this context, is a defining characteristic of friendship with Christ. It is not a burdensome obligation but a joyful response to the intimate relationship shared between Christ and the members of His body.

1 John 5:3 (KJV): "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."

The Apostle John echoes the sentiment of Jesus in his first epistle. Obedience is framed as an expression of love for God, and the burden of God's commands is transformed into a joyful response. Within the body of Christ, this obedience is motivated by a genuine love for the Head and a desire to align with His divine purposes.

Obedience to Christ's commands within the body of Christ is not a legalistic obligation but a relational response grounded in love and friendship. As believers align themselves with the teachings and directives of Christ, the body functions harmoniously, reflecting the divine order intended by the Head.

In the upcoming chapters, we will explore how this obedience, coupled with the call to submission, shapes the Church's mission, its impact on the world, and its collective pursuit of the divine purpose within the broader framework of the body of Christ.