The Christian "S" Word

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.—James 3:17

If there is an “S” word in Christian theology, it is the word ‘submit.’ It is probably so controversial because we so often use it in the context of gender issues, quoting Ephesians 5:22, where Paul instructs wives to submit to their husbands, while often forgetting the previous verse where we are all instructed to submit to one another, and the following verses, where husbands are to ‘give themselves’ for the good of their wives. So what does a purely submissive attitude look like? Let’s break it down a little:

1. There is a specific submission to authorities. While there are certain ethical limits here, as a general rule, we should submit to the leadership and decisions made by government officials, church leaders, parents, bosses, etc. This doesn’t mean we agree with every decision, nor does it mean we do anything that goes against our conscience. I believe we even have the biblical freedom to discuss ethical issues with our leaders. If we are called to do something unethical by our employers, then we should confront them peacefully and humbly about the issue. If they don’t budge, then we should look for a different job. While this is specific, I think there is a larger issue here to discuss.

2. There is also general submission to one another. While I could give you certain examples, I believe it is more important to talk about the attitude of submission that also applies to our submission to authorities. The attitude of submission is rooted in absolute humility. It is a respect for other people that calls us to listen to people because of who we are, not because of their title or position. Ephesians 5:21 tells us, “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Having a submissive attitude means that we don’t always have to be the ones who are heard or to the ones who always get our way. We don’t need to be ‘pushy’ with our attitudes. We don’t need to get things done at the expense of relationships.

Simply put, Christ is the perfect example of a submissive attitude. He was submissive to the will of the Father, even when it was painful and unpopular. Even though he was God in human flesh, he even had a submissive attitude towards earthly authorities. Before Pontius Pilate, he remained mostly silent because he knew that the only power Pilate had was because it had been given to him by God. We must also choose to follow this attitude of Christ and to carry a submissive attitude about ourselves that is not just a respect for earthly authority, but also as an act of faith that God is in total control. Ultimately he will make all things right.