Submission to Authority
Submission to Authority6
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By K.P. Yohannan0LUK 15:11K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the transformative power of returning to God through the parable of the prodigal son, illustrating how rebellion leads to waste and loss, while submission to God's authority brings restoration and blessings. The son, after squandering his inheritance, recognizes his unworthiness and chooses to return to his father, who welcomes him back with love and celebration, highlighting the importance of reestablishing the father-son relationship. Yohannan points out that true submission to God’s authority, though challenging, leads to liberation and abundant life, contrasting the chaos of rebellion with the peace of obedience. He encourages believers to embrace submission as a pathway to experiencing God's blessings and restoration.
1 Peter 2:14
By John Gill0ROM 13:11PE 2:14John Gill emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities as ordained by God, explaining that these officials are tasked with punishing evildoers and rewarding those who do good. He highlights that such submission is not only a civic duty but also a spiritual one, as it reflects obedience to God's order. Gill points out that the role of magistrates is to maintain justice and peace within society, serving as instruments of God's will. The sermon encourages believers to recognize the divine purpose behind earthly authorities and to act in accordance with the laws of both God and man.
1 Peter 2:13
By John Gill0PRO 21:1MAT 22:21ACT 5:29ROM 13:1ROM 13:51TI 2:1TIT 3:11PE 2:13John Gill emphasizes the importance of submitting to civil authorities as outlined in 1 Peter 2:13, explaining that this submission is not to all individuals but specifically to those in positions of governance, such as kings and magistrates. He highlights that this obedience is for the Lord's sake, reflecting Christ's command to honor earthly authorities, even if they are not righteous. Gill clarifies that while civil government is a divine institution, the specific forms may be human, and believers are called to respect these authorities to uphold the honor of God and the integrity of the Gospel. He notes that submission is essential for maintaining a good witness among Gentiles and for the overall good of society.
Head Covering
By Watchman Nee01CO 11:2Watchman Nee discusses the significance of head covering in the context of God's order in creation, emphasizing that the head of every man is Christ, the head of the woman is the man, and the head of Christ is God. He explains that head covering is not merely a cultural practice but a representation of submission to God's governmental authority, highlighting the importance of recognizing one's position within this divine order. Nee stresses that grace does not nullify God's government, and that women covering their heads serves as a testimony to both God and the angels, affirming their acceptance of God's appointed order. He concludes that understanding and practicing head covering is essential for maintaining the testimony of God's government in the church.
Of the Civil Magistrate
By Conrad Mbewe1.8K50:08MAT 5:37ROM 13:1COL 3:22HEB 13:171PE 2:13Conrad Mbewe emphasizes the importance of submission to civil authority as a reflection of one's relationship with God, drawing from 1 Peter 2. He explains that true Christians, transformed by their faith, will naturally respect and obey the authorities established by God, as this promotes order in society and reflects a heart changed by Christ. Mbewe highlights that submission is not contingent on the fairness of authority but is a testament to one's consciousness of God and a path to spiritual maturity. He warns against hypocrisy in claiming to submit to God while rebelling against human authority, urging believers to seek genuine transformation in their hearts. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of obedience as a reflection of one's faith and relationship with God.
Submitted but Faithful
By Theodore Epp0ROM 13:1Theodore Epp emphasizes the distinction between submission and obedience in the life of a believer, particularly in relation to government authority. While believers are called to submit to governing authorities, there may be instances where obedience to God's commands takes precedence, as demonstrated by Peter and John in Acts. They exemplified submission by accepting the consequences of their disobedience to the government while continuing to preach the Gospel. Epp highlights that true submission involves an inward attitude of respect, even when outward actions may conflict with human authority. Ultimately, believers are encouraged to prioritize their allegiance to God while maintaining a respectful stance towards earthly authorities.