Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

In the landscape of modern society, the concept of authority often meets resistance. Many find themselves questioning the legitimacy of those in power and choosing to follow only the authorities they deem worthy. However, according to the Scriptures, our relationship with authority isn’t based on personal preference but on obedience to God’s divine order. Romans 13:1 asserts that “everyone must submit to governing authorities, for all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.” This profound statement sets the foundation for understanding our role in submitting to authority as an act of worship.

Authority as God’s Provision

The notion that all authority originates from God is significant. It is a reminder that those in power are there because God has ordained it, regardless of our personal opinions about them. The Bible further emphasizes this in 1 Peter 2:13, where we are instructed to submit “for the Lord’s sake to every human authority.” This means our submission is not merely about compliance; it’s about fulfilling God’s will for us as His followers.
To some, these Biblical injunctions may feel like a call to blind obedience. However, they highlight an essential truth: we must submit to those in authority because it honors God. This submission transcends our personal interests or convenience. It is fundamentally about choosing to obey God’s design for order in society.

Practical Implications of Submission

So, what does this submission look like in practical terms? First and foremost, it mandates that we comply with the laws of our land. As tempting as it may be to disregard rules that seem inconvenient (like speeding when in a hurry or evading taxes), Romans 13 clearly states that rebellion against authority equates to rebellion against God Himself. The laws, regardless of whether we voted for those who uphold them, are established according to God’s sovereign plan.
In a world where political divides grow ever deeper, it is crucial to recognize that authority figures in both political parties are ultimately ordained by God, whether it’s Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, or any leader that follows. We are not called to pick and choose our authorities; instead, we are challenged to respect and honor those God has placed over us.

Submitting to Church Leadership

Another essential area of authority to consider is church leadership. In conversations about authority, many people express a reluctance to submit, insisting, “I only answer to God.” This perspective may sound spiritual, but it is, in fact, unbiblical. First Peter 5 instructs us to “submit yourselves to your elders,” and the author of Hebrews exhorts us to “have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account.”
This framework highlights that all spiritual authority, like other forms of authority, is ordained by God. By placing ourselves under the guidance of church leaders, we permit them to teach, correct, and disciple us according to God’s Word. Rejecting the authority of church leadership can hinder our spiritual growth and the ability to receive the necessary discipline that promotes integrity and accountability in our Christian walk.

Coming Under the Authority of Your Employer

Additionally, we are called to come under the authority of our employers. This aspect of submission is crucial in our daily lives. In any job setting, our employer is in a position of authority over us, and the Scriptures remind us of our responsibility to honor that relationship. 1 Peter 2:18 encourages us to submit to our masters with all respect, including those who may be harsh or unfair.
Even in challenging work environments, we are called to obey our employers not out of fear or self-interest but as an act of reverence for God. Colossians 3:22-23 admonishes us to work wholeheartedly, as if we are working for the Lord, not for human masters. This underscores that our attitude towards our employers is a reflection of our commitment to God’s principles.

Living in Submission

Ultimately, coming under authority isn’t about personal preferences or questioning whether others deserve our obedience. It’s about honoring God through the authorities He has placed in our lives. This act of submission positions us not only to benefit from godly leadership but also to express our faith through actions that glorify God.
As you consider your own life, reflect on the authorities you may need to embrace more fully. What authority do you need to learn to come under today? Whether it’s governmental, workplace, or church authority, recognize that submitting to these structures is a profound act of active worship, demonstrating your commitment to God’s design and provision in every sphere of life.

Conclusion: Worship through Submission

In essence, submitting to authority is an act of active worship. It isn’t only about following rules but about honoring God’s ordination of leadership in our lives. We demonstrate our faith by choosing obedience over rebellion, respect over disdain, and integrity over convenience. By doing so, we remain grounded in the belief that God’s authority works through earthly systems, and we can trust that He is ultimately in control.
As we navigate our daily lives, let us embrace submission to authority, recognizing it as a reflection of our devotion to God—a worshipful response to His divine order.